Rutherford’s Green Debate: Will Retail Cannabis Boost the Borough?

Overview: In a recent Rutherford Borough Council meeting, the potential future of cannabis was the primary focus of discussion. Councilman Matthew Coakley introduced a motion for a non-referendum question about class five cannabis licenses for retail purposes.

Power of Protest: Community Mobilization Compels School Board to Reinstate Mental Health Services

Overview: In a heated special meeting of the Ramapo-Indian Hills School Board, the board’s decision from last week not to continue funding their mental health services faced a firestorm of criticism. Ultimately, public mobilization for these services forced the board to reverse course.

Athletics or Environmental Preservation: Oakland’s Trust Fund Tug-of-War

Overview: In a specially convened meeting on Wednesday, the Oakland Borough Council passed the final adoption of a critical ordinance authorizing a binding municipal referendum on the recontinuation of an annual levy for the Open Space Trust Fund. The move stirred concern among local environmentalists and green team members over potential misappropriation of funds earmarked for preservation of open space.

School Board Celebrates Increased Graduation Readiness and ELL Program Success

Overview: In a recent Leonia School Board meeting, a variety of significant developments emerged, including increased graduation readiness and notable success in the English Language Learner (ELL) program. The meetings also served as a platform for local residents’ concerns, deliberations on the board’s spending, and progress reports on various district-wide initiatives.

Residents Challenge Council’s Spending Priorities and Transparency

Overview: In a recent Rochelle Park Town Council meeting, the council addressed wide-ranging issues from procedural clarity and financial practices to infrastructure management. Residents criticized the council’s salary range and scrutinized its decision to spend on a new town hall instead of addressing the city’s persistent flooding issues.