Lacey School Board Debates Courtesy Busing and Cell Phone Policy

Overview: The Lacey School Board recently convened to discuss a series of issues, including the contentious decision to eliminate courtesy busing and the enforcement of a new cell phone policy in schools. The meeting also addressed concerns about the recent termination of a coach, proposed tax increases, and accolades for the middle school wrestling program and music department.

Lacey School Board Faces Heated Debate Over Budget and Tax Increase

Overview: The recent Lacey School Board meeting was marked by discussions and differing opinions on the proposed school budget and a significant 9.9% tax increase. Community members, educators, and board representatives voiced their concerns and support regarding the financial challenges facing the Lacey Township School District, emphasizing the potential impacts on educational programs, class sizes, staff layoffs, and the broader community.

Lacey School Board Tackles Harassment Policy and Budget Concerns

Overview: At the recent Lacey School Board meeting, discussions took precedence over routine matters, with the district’s self-assessment of its harassment, intimidation, and bullying (HIB) policy and the proposed 9.9% tax increase to support the school budget drawing attention. The self-assessment yielded scores between 73 and 75 out of 78 for each school, resulting in an overall district grade of 73. Meanwhile, board members debated the tax increase’s necessity to maintain smaller classrooms and avoid staffing cuts against the impact on homeowners, renters, and businesses.

Lacey Council Approves Key Ordinances, Discusses Education Funding

Overview: The Lacey Town Council’s recent meeting was marked by approvals of ordinances and discussions on education funding and community development. The council passed the first reading of an ordinance for lead-based paint inspections in rental dwellings, approved the second reading of ordinances to establish salaries for town officers and employees, and amended construction codes and zoning regulations according to the New Jersey Pinelands Commission. They also addressed the appointment of a Municipal Alliance coordinator, renewed several licenses, including those for alcohol consumption and distribution, and authorized public fireworks displays. The council voted on resolutions concerning road improvements, bond releases, and financial matters, with Deputy Mayor Kola raising concerns about the commercial development and housing affordability. Public comments revealed deep community concerns about taxation, education, and the behavior of school district employees.

Lacey Council Tackles Housing, Schools, and Fiscal Transparency

Overview: In a recent Lacey Town Council meeting, discussions emerged around the settlement of affordable housing obligations, the financial support of local schools, and the transparency of the township’s fiscal management. The council addressed the settlement of Wall’s affordable housing obligation, a issue dating back to 2015, and debated the adequacy of volunteer firefighter training and retention. Furthermore, the meeting saw proposals for funding schools in financial deficit and calls for enhanced financial transparency, including the suggestion to provide resolutions online prior to council votes.