Regional Briefs – December 16, 2015

Audit Finds Problems With NJ’s Property Tax Credits

TRENTON – An audit finds 19,000 eligible applicants may not have received a property tax credit while some recipients got it without having paid taxes, NJ.com reported. Some missed out on the $10 million program because they sold their homes in the year it took the state to issue the Homestead Benefit.

Muslim Judge Sworn In On Koran in Brooklyn

BROOKLYN – NYC’s first Muslim judge was sworn in as Brooklyn Civil Court judge last Thursday on a Koran, leading to a backlash on social media, the Daily News reported. Carolyn Walker-Diallo, who was elected last month, wrote that she would ensure “that EVERYONE has notice and a FAIR opportunity to be heard in the halls of justice.”

Newark Schools Reach Deal To Halt Federal Probe

NEWARK – The Newark school system has reached an agreement with federal education officials to halt an investigation into its reorganization plan, The Associated Press reported. They agreed to address bias against black students.

New Jersey Turnpike Authority Stocking Up on Salt

WOODBRIDGE, N.J. – Despite record-breaking heat, the NJ Turnpike purchased 222,000 tons of rock salt for the turnpike and Garden State Parkway, NJ.com reported. The toll roads used a record 180,000 tons of salt during the last two winters. Winter officially begins on Tuesday.

Police Looking for Vandals Who Cut 2 Utility Poles, Power

CLARENCE, N.Y. – Police are looking for the vandal who used a power saw to cut into two utility poles in a Buffalo suburb Monday night, knocking out power to about 1,000 customers, The Associated Press reported. After the poles were cut, the wind caused them to fall down.

NY Communities Getting $75 Million in Water Grants

ALBANY – Communities that need to replace clean water infrastructure but can’t afford the cost will get state aid, Gov. Andrew Cuomo said. About $75 million will be in grants and $362 million in interest-free and low-interest loans to support 45 projects throughout the state.