This week on The Montclair Pod, Farnoosh and Mike tackle Montclair’s biggest school story: the $19.6 million budget deficit and the December 9 special election. With talk of a possible state fiscal monitor and questions swirling about missing funds, one big question keeps coming up in living rooms and online forums alike: Can the district get back on track without jeopardizing programs, staff, or community trust?
Superintendent Q&A: Fixing a Broken Budget
In her most candid interview yet, Superintendent Ruth B. Turner opens up about accountability, fiscal discipline, and the tough choices facing Montclair schools. She explains why Question 1 leaves out the state loan and monitor, why Question 2 makes the tax hike permanent, what a fiscal monitor could and could not do, how the forensic audit ties to Question 2, and whether teachers and nurses could return if new funds pass. Turner also breaks down where the “missing $12 million” actually went and what happens if the town must take a short-term bridge loan just to make payroll.
Ask Our Agent: How Curb Appeal and Screen Appeal Sell Homes
In this week’s Ask Our Agent, Compass real estate agent and show sponsor Karin Diana shares practical tips on making smart, high-impact updates that help homeowners attract top buyers. From decluttering and fresh paint to updated lighting and thoughtful furniture placement, she shows how to make a home feel move-in ready, stylish, and appealing to buyers in a fast-moving market.
Farnoosh & Mike Eat Food: Bao Dumplings & Bao Tea
In Farnoosh & Mike Eat Food, sponsored by Twocents, the hosts head to Bao Dumplings & Bao Tea in Verona. They dig into dumplings, noodles, bao buns, and fried chicken, explore the boba menu, meet the staff, and taste the kid-approved favorites that keep locals coming back for more.
News Roundup: Board of Ed, tribute concert, and Local Happenings
To close out the episode, Farnoosh and Mike run through a few local headlines:
- The Board of Education confirmed Kerri McMahon, Sean Long, and Yvonne Bouknight won the three seats.
- Two 19-year-olds from Montclair High were arrested for plotting an ISIS-inspired attack.
- RecRoom opened in Lackawanna Plaza with co-working spaces, private offices, games, pool, and cold brew coffee.
- Montclair Art Museum’s 3rd annual “Last Waltz” tribute concert is on Saturday