Maple Shade Youth Lead Charge in Conservation Efforts Amid Council’s Broad Agenda

Overview: At the recent Maple Shade Town Council meeting, students from Maple High School captivated attendees with their ongoing efforts to protect the critically endangered mcor box turtle through the UNLESS project. Their presentation, which outlined a multi-year conservation mission, provided a notable highlight in a meeting packed with diverse topics, ranging from local infrastructure issues to discussions on township ordinances and public safety initiatives.

Maple Shade Zoning Board Approves Salon Variance Amidst Broader Concerns on Property Safety

Overview: In its recent meeting, the Maple Shade Zoning Board granted a use variance and site plan waiver for Holly and Nicholas Keri to convert a property on South Fork Landing Road into a beauty salon, despite initial concerns about potential conflicts of interest. The decision, which involved discussions about the salon’s operations, parking, signage, and chemical use, was part of a broader agenda that included evaluations of unsafe living conditions in the township and a contentious review of a non-conforming use certificate for a multi-family dwelling on McCrae Lane.

Atlantic County Board Meeting Discusses Court System Overhaul and Sheriff’s Department Funding

Overview: The recent Atlantic County Board of Commissioners meeting focused on issues surrounding the Central Municipal Court system and the financial commitments to the Sheriff’s Department. Notable discussions included the consolidation of the municipal court system, its implications for public safety and cost savings, and the competitive bidding process that influenced the Sheriff’s Department’s operational strategies.

Maple Shade Residents Debate Playground Safety and Solicitor Appointment at Town Council Meeting

Overview: The recent Maple Shade Town Council meeting stirred debate over plans for a new inclusive playground on Buttonwood Avenue and the appointment of Ellen McDow as Township Attorney for 2025. Residents voiced concerns about the playground’s location and accessibility, while the process behind McDow’s appointment drew scrutiny.

Maple Shade Planning Board Approves New Toy Store in Downtown Business Zone

Overview: In a recent meeting, the Maple Shade Planning Board approved a change of use and site plan waiver for a new toy store, Crypted Toys and Games LLC, to occupy a previously vacant retail space in the downtown business zone. Other agenda items included the swearing-in of board officers and the appointment of key roles such as board attorney and engineer.