With the high-stakes school vote looming—or maybe not, thanks to a new lawsuit—we sit down with New York Magazine journalist Andrew Rice to figure out exactly where the school district's money went. We also talk a bit about local news collaboration and why it benefits everyone. Plus, a heartbreaking preview of next week's street safety episode with NPR's David Folkenflik, and a packed local news roundup.

The "Missing" Money: Andrew Rice

New York Magazine contributing editor and local dad Andrew Rice joins us to discuss his new Substack, My Montclair Education. We dive deep into his look at the district's budget crisis, exploring the structural math, the impact of COVID-era hiring sprees, soaring transportation costs, and the chaotic tenure of the former Business Administrator.

A Tragic Warning: Street Safety

We share a powerful preview of next week's interview with NPR media reporter and longtime resident David Folkenflik, who experienced the unthinkable when his mother was killed crossing the street outside his house. He shares his warnings about Montclair's dangerous intersections and the aggressive driving culture plaguing our residential neighborhoods.

Local Beat: Gill Won’t Seek Reelection, Fire Cuts & Festivals

In our news roundup, we cover Brendan Gill’s announcement that he won't seek re-election to the Essex County Board of Commissioners after 15 years. We also break down the controversial staffing cuts hitting the Montclair Fire Department, driven by a massive $3.7 million spike in municipal health insurance costs. Finally, mark your calendars: we've got the dates for Montclair Pride, the Jazz Festival Downtown Jamboree, and the African American Heritage Parade.

Links & Resources

Substack: Subscribe to Andrew Rice's deep dive into the schools at My Montclair Education.
New York Mag: Read Andrew's recent piece on schools in America and another one how a new Hollywood is being built in New Jersey. Here’s more about his book, The Year That Broke America
Commissioner News: Read about Brendan Gill not seeking re-election; The Montclair Local also covered this.
Fire Department: Read the Montclair Patch coverage of the Township's fire department cuts.
Summer Festivals: Find all the dates for Montclair Pride, the Jazz Festival, and more at montclairpod.com/festivals/. You can also visit the official sites directly: Montclair Pride and the Montclair Jazz Festival.
Sponsor: Need real estate advice? Reach out to Karin Diana of Compass and her team at thehomecollectivenj.com.
Tribute: Remembering Coleman McCarthy
Newsletter: Subscribe and join our email community at montclairpod.com.

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Where Did Our School District Money Go...Exactly?