The playground project at Oakwood Park emerged as a focal point, with the community activities director, Alison, presenting a detailed Green Acres Grant application to the council. The initiative seeks to create a recreational space accessible to all, including those with disabilities, and involves the construction of a new or renovated bathroom facility to enhance wheelchair access and family convenience. With a total estimated cost of $1,296,000, Alison revealed plans to apply for Jake’s Law grant funding of $972,000, which would leave the borough with a $324,000 responsibility. She assured the council and public that the planning consultants found no adverse environmental impacts from the new playground, which is slated for groundbreaking in the summer or fall of 2025. The council, including members Peter DeSarno and Alexander Kogan, and Mayor Allen B. Morgan, voiced their support for the project while considering the financial implications and the potential need to downsize if full funding is not secured. Public comment included suggestions for seeking a discount from the playground manufacturer and questions about the project’s timeline and impact on existing fields. Alison responded to concerns about the surface by emphasizing plans for a natural look with mulch, mindful of the need for wheelchair access.

Another pressing matter discussed was the denial of FEMA funding for repairs to stormwater system damage on a resident’s property, a remnant of Hurricane Ida. Resident Sarah challenged the borough’s legal responsibility for maintaining the system, including a retaining wall and chain-link fence. The borough’s attorney, Mr. Rizzo, contended that the borough had appealed to FEMA and that liability did not extend to the retaining wall. However, Sarah cited legal codes to argue for the borough’s obligation to manage the stormwater system comprehensively. The debate extended to topics such as the easement, ownership, and prior communications with FEMA. A related issue of a letter from October 2022 was brought up, questioning the borough’s responsibility and control over the project, with FEMA’s requirements for proof of ownership as a sticking point. The council discussed the possibility of taking ownership of the appearance of the stormwater system and the costs of replacing the retaining wall.

Infrastructure concerns extended to the topic of sidewalk construction along Central Avenue. Resident Jeff highlighted the potential impact on the area’s character and the expense involved. This led to broader discussions on sidewalk maintenance, especially after a recent ice storm. Council Member Nadine Geoffroy urged for homeowner education to ensure sidewalk safety, pointing out an uncleared crosswalk on Springfield Avenue. The clearing of sidewalks and public property post-storm was also a concern raised by residents, with one providing visual evidence to emphasize the importance of safety.

Technical and budgetary challenges have slowed progress, but the council remained dedicated to addressing these issues in the upcoming budget process. Public engagement, a key theme of the meeting, was exemplified by discussions on the council’s goals, the importance of community meetings, and the acknowledgment of community members’ contributions to resolving issues.

Additional topics covered in the meeting included the approval of personnel appointments, resolutions, and ordinances, such as an agreement with GovPilot LLC for workflow software and the adoption of pay-to-play regulations. The council also discussed committee appointment terms, the retirement resignation of a borough employee, and mutual aid agreements with neighboring fire departments. Public safety, labor contracts, and tax liens were among the various resolutions passed.