Montclair Local

We are a new, independent weekly newspaper that focuses on Montclair, aiming to “Encourage conversation, provide unbiased information, and strengthen our community.” We believe it’s essential to offer thorough and quality coverage of local events and issues. Our dedicated team of journalists is committed to ensuring that: A wide range of subjects is addressed, including city government, education, sports, arts, and community matters. Our reporting is comprehensive, giving readers a clear insight into the happenings in our town.

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Defying Survey, Montclair School Board OKs 2025-26 School Calendar

5 days ago | montclairlocal.news | Matt Kadosh

Defying the results of a community survey, the Montclair school board on Wednesday approved a calendar for the 2025-26 academic year that will recognize most of the holidays the district has previously acknowledged but, as a result, will run classes later into June than the usual time. The calendar starts Sept. 4 and will end June 25, school board member Jada Roman told Montclair Local following the meeting. The board approved the calendar by a vote of 6-1. Two members abstained from voting.
Trader Joe's Confirms Plans to Open West Orange Store

6 days ago | montclairlocal.news | Liz George

Essex County has only one Trader Joe’s, located in Millburn, but that’s about to change. West Orange has won Trader Joe bragging rights. “We have plans to open a store in West Orange,” Nakia Rohde, public relations manager for Trader Joe’s told Montclair Local.
Students, Staff Fight Closure of ‘Classics Library’ at Montclair State

1 week ago | montclairlocal.news | Matt Kadosh

A book-filled room at Montclair State University known as the “Classics Library” could become lost to the ages as the university plans to convert the space for another purpose. English major Jazmin Perez, a junior, said students and staff use the small library as a seminar space, study room and social space that helps to generate a sense of community. “There’s a myth club that would meet in here,” Perez, 22, said, speaking via Zoom from the space at Dickson Hall.
The Olmsted Oak Lives On as Artful Bench at Anderson Park

1 week ago | montclairlocal.news | Georgette Gilmore

The Olmsted Oak, which fell during a storm last August, is back in Anderson Park—now as a curved bench made by Montclair artist Charlie Spademan. Thanks to the vision of park neighbor Bob Silver and Spademan’s craftsmanship, a piece of the beloved tree has been crafted into a lasting tribute. The bench was installed Wednesday afternoon on the park’s east side—near the spot where the oak once stood. The Essex County Department of Parks and Friends of Anderson Park supported the installation.
Pilsbury School to Close, Building Listed for Sale

1 week ago | montclairlocal.news | Liz George

After more than 55 years as a preschool, Montclair’s Pilsbury School will close in June. “The expansion of the State-Funded Universal Preschool and Pre-K programs in the Montclair Public School System has caused unprecedented challenges for us,” said Cindy Pilsbury Benson, director of the Pilsbury School, in a letter to parents. In her letter, Pilsbury Benson said economic uncertainty and financial constraints forced the decision to close.
Police Chase Prompts ‘Shelter in Place’ at Two Montclair Schools

1 week ago | montclairlocal.news | Matt Kadosh

Authorities have lifted lockdowns placed Wednesday morning at Montclair High School and Renaissance at Rand Middle School while sheriff’s officers chased a suspect wanted on undisclosed charges. The “shelter in place,” which the district ordered at about 10:30 a.m. his since been lifted, Interim Superintendent Damen Cooper said in a message to the school community. The Essex County Sheriff’s Office was carrying out a “warrant arrest” on Central Avenue, according to police Lt. Terence Turner.
Hockey Supporters Press Montclair Council on Outdated Ice Rink

1 week ago | montclairlocal.news | Matt Kadosh

Supporters of Montclair’s Clary Anderson Arena filled the council chambers Tuesday night where they lobbied the township for greater investment in the aging facility. The pleas to the council come after township inspectors on April 23 found a series of safety issues, including “numerous” code violations. Council members had publicly discussed a potential emergency closure of the rink the day before the inspections.
Hearing on Montclair’s Affordable Housing Plan Draws Crowd

1 week ago | montclairlocal.news | Matt Kadosh

A public hearing on Montclair’s draft affordable housing plan drew significant turnout Monday night. A majority of people expressed support for the plan. Some suggested revisions. Residents spoke for about an hour-and-a-half after the township’s planning and community development director presented on the 66-page draft plan. Among them were Jennifer Nelson. a Montclair’s South End resident. Nelson has been renting for the past 10 years and worries she could be priced out.
Montclair’s Carla Ann Harris to Perform at NJPAC in Uplifting Benefit Concert

1 week ago | montclairlocal.news | Georgette Gilmore

New Jersey Performing Arts Center (NJPAC) will present nationally acclaimed Gospel sensation Carla Ann Harris—a Montclair native—on Sunday, June 8, at 3 p.m.Known for her soaring vocals and soul-stirring performances, Harris will take the stage for a special benefit concert supporting the YMCA of Newark & Vicinity and the Primary Care Scholars Program at Hackensack Meridian Health Medical School.
Montclair Bike Bus Takes to Streets for 'Kidical Mass' Ride

1 week ago | montclairlocal.news | Liz George

A group of cyclists nearly 300 strong took to the streets Sunday for a seven-mile ride. Starting in Upper Montclair, families rode all the way to Nishuane Park — and back. The goal? To send a message to elected leaders about the need to make Montclair streets safer. The Montclair township council will hold a public hearing Tuesday on legislation establishing a Complete Streets policy.