Regional Briefs – May 1, 2016

Teaneck Mayor Dies Suddenly From Respiratory Issues

TEANECK, N.J. – The 44-year-old mayor of Teaneck died suddenly Sunday morning after a battle with respiratory issues, The Record reported. Lizette Parker, who in 2014 became the town’s first black mayor, was replaced by Deputy Mayor Elie Katz.

Survey: NYC Street Homeless Count Declines by 12 Percent

NEW YORK – The city’s street homeless population of 2,794 shows a 12 percent decline from 2015, according to a federal survey. Results indicate a 20 percent decrease in homeless in the subway, the first decrease in seven years. Mayor Bill de Blasio said it shows that “progress is possible.”

NJ Lawmakers Consider Later School Start Times

TRENTON – State education officials this week will hold a series of hearings to discuss whether middle and high school students should start the school day later, The Associated Press reported. Proponents cited an American Academy of Pediatrics report recommending that class start no earlier than 8:30 a.m.

Postman Stole $443,000 In Tax Refund Checks

CAMDEN, N.J. – A postal worker pleaded guilty Friday to stealing $443,000 worth of tax refund checks from his mail route in Pennsauken, N.J., The Associated Press reported. Earl Champagne passed the money to other people who paid him $50 per stolen check.

Christie’s Favorability Rating Hits All-Time Low

NEW BRUNSWICK, N.J. – Gov. Chris Christie’s favorability rating in New Jersey hit an all-time low in a Rugters-Eagleton poll released Thursday. Just 26 percent have a favorable opinion while 64 percent view him negatively. Among Republicans, 56 percent feel favorable, down seven points from February.

Town to Borrow Policing Service From Nearby City

LAKE COMO, N.J. – The town of Lake Como will save taxpayers $10 million by disbanding its 10-member police department, and will use officers from neighboring Belmar, the Asbury Park Press reported. Voters had rejected a 22 percent property tax hike to pay for the force.

This article appeared in print on page 5 of the May 2nd, 2016 edition of Hamodia.