5 Things to Know: Tonight's Township Meeting

Meetings of the Township Committee often draw big crowds—especially when a youth group is being recognized.

But whether there's a big crowd or not, the committee does many important and symbolic things for the township—which don't always get the attention they perhaps should.

Tonight's meeting has a full agenda—so full the meeting will start at 6 p.m. instead of 7 p.m.—here are some of the highlights residents can expect:

You Need To Know About Capital Ideas: Five ordinances appropriating money from the township's capital reserve will be introduced to pay for road projects, equipment improvements and building upgrades.

You Need To Know About Public Hearings: The committee will also hold a public hearing on the settlement for former municipal prosecutor Michelle D'Onofrio who successfully sued the township following her dismissal in 2007. The township reached a settlement which reduced an initial judgement against the township by more than $800,000. The ordinance up for final approval tonight sets the funding plans in place for the payment of the settlement.

You Need To Know About School Lessons: Warren Township Superintendent of Schools Tami Crader will review the district's $41.7 million budget for the 2012-2013 school year at the meeting, including the tax impact, as well as programs and purchases planned.

You Need To Know About Dedicated Recognition: The committee will issue a proclamation declaring April Autism Awareness Month, recognizing the not only the growing number of children diagnosed but also the growing options for those diagnosed with autism spectrum disorders—an area in which Warren is a leading community.   

You Need To Know We Are The Champions: OK, this is sure to be the main event: come see the 2012 Central Jersey Junior Basketball League champions—the Warren Middle School girls team, coached by Laura Lamson, as the township recognizes the team's accomplishment.