Franklin Library Board Faces Construction Woes and Director’s Raise

Overview: The Franklin Township Public Library Board of Trustees addressed issues regarding ongoing construction complications and approved a substantial salary increase for the Library Director during their latest meeting conducted via Zoom. The Board also received a resignation letter from a long-standing trustee, Iris Kizling, effective July 1st, 2024.

Franklin Council Champions Diversity, Tackles Local and Global Issues

Overview: In a gathering of the Franklin Township Council, the meeting opened with the swearing-in of a diverse group of police chaplains and a proclamation celebrating Pride Month, emphasizing inclusivity and the contributions of the LGBTQ+ community. The council tackled a myriad of both global and local issues, ranging from the impact of the overseas crisis on residents’ mental health to the establishment of a family-owned cannabis shop in the Kingston area. Moreover, discussions about the Israeli-Palestinian conflict dominated public comments, with residents expressing their concerns and seeking the council’s stance on this humanitarian issue.

Franklin (Somerset County) Zoning Board Deliberates Impact of New 200-Unit Complex

Overview: The latest meeting of the Franklin (Somerset County) Zoning Board centered around discussions on a proposed 200-unit apartment complex, with public concerns about environmental impact, pedestrian safety, and infrastructure stress taking the forefront. The board and public scrutinized the project’s details, including stormwater management, traffic flow, and the adequacy of the project’s engineering plans.

Franklin Planning Board Approves Hamilton Street Project

Overview: The Franklin Planning Board has voted to approve a proposed housing project on Hamilton Street after extensive deliberations over its impact on the community, alongside discussions on the development of a new daycare center. The meeting saw local residents and business representatives express both concerns and support for the developments, with the board addressing issues ranging from safety and infrastructure to the historical significance of the area.

Franklin School Board Celebrates Broadway Star and Announces New Initiatives for Student Safety

Overview: The Franklin (Somerset County) School Board meeting on June 18, 2024, focused on celebrating accomplishments within the district and introducing new initiatives for student safety. The board highlighted the success of Franklin alumna Malia Joy Moon, a Tony award-winning actress, and discussed recent safety data and the Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) strategies that have shown promising results in reducing classroom disruptions and promoting a positive school culture.