Week in Review: Sizzling Summer

Most all of us spent the past week dodging the sun, desperately trying to get relief from heat and humidity that combined to make it feel well above 100 degrees for days.

The weather taxed utilities, with excessive demand and transformer failures causing power outages throughout the state, including intermittent outages in Wyckoff. The dry weather forced Ridgewater Water to issue restrictions on usage, banning all outdoor irrigation. The ban remained in place as of Sunday evening, although residents in the utility's coverage area are now allowed to water with handheld hoses.

The severe heat prompted the county to designate "cooling centers" for those desperate to beat the heat. The weather also led to mechanical breakdowns that wreaked havoc on NJ Transit's schedules.

The heat wave didn't stop state and local lawmakers from the public's business, with state legislators reaching a compromise on a spending cap that is aimed at slowing the growth of property taxes. We took a look at the possible consequences of the 2 percent cap, along with many of the proposals that may be considered as part of the governor's "toolkit."

Locally, the Township Committee began talk on the possibility of allowing outdoor dining at Wyckoff eateries. Township officials also continue working on ways to help acquire funding for Rambaut Lake dam repair while continuing to question the necessity of Ridgewood Water's 21 percent rate hike. Additionally, the Township Committee is moving toward eventually achieving Sustainable Jersey certification.

We also went Grocery Shopping With Gloria, as writer Gloria Johnson questioned the results of a study that cast doubt on the safety of reusable grocery bags.

What would you like to see in the weeks ahead? Know of an interesting person, organization or business that deserves attention? Let us know at nick@patch.com or 201-208-3348.