The commendation of Officer Stevenson was a moment of pride for the community, acknowledging his swift response and professionalism. The tree appeals on River Road and Topanemus Road elicited lengthy discussions, with the council ultimately approving the removal of trees at the former while delaying the decision for the latter pending further clarification on property lines.

The proposed ordinances regarding waste management and leaf pickup were a focal point of the meeting, stemming from the need to improve the efficiency of the town’s services. The council deliberated on the draft ordinance, which involved input from the brush and leaf committee, the code enforcement officer, and Councilman Andrew “Drew” LaBarbera. The enforcement of the ordinance, including potential penalties for non-compliance, sparked debate among the members. Concerns about the practicality of enforcing certain sections and the importance of clear communication with residents were at the forefront. The idea of a grace period was suggested, highlighting the council’s intention to educate the community before strictly enforcing the new rules.

In parallel, the council discussed the establishment of a farmers market, focusing on the logistical planning, vendor compliance with bylaws, and support required from the town’s Public Works department. The market’s impact on the community and the local economy was a point of careful consideration, with discussions on vendor pricing, parking logistics, and the location of the market. The council showed a commitment to fostering local business participation and ensuring the market’s successful integration into the community.

The readiness of the proposed waste management ordinance was questioned, with members discussing the specifics and subsections that needed to be addressed. The potential impact on street cleanliness and the management of leaves by the Department of Public Works was a concern, emphasizing the importance of a clear operational understanding before the ordinance’s implementation.

The council also addressed the town’s development and improvements, from construction projects to personnel matters. Updates were given on the ongoing construction work, the initial stakeholder kickoff call for ADA upgrades, and the potential partnership for playground upgrades at Sickles Park. The council noted personnel updates, including the posting of the borough administrator role, and the appointment of three foremen.

Parking regulations were another topic of concern, with the introduction of new ordinances aimed at improving parking and traffic flow within the town. The council sought to refine these regulations to ensure they are both effective and maintain the town’s charm.

Furthermore, the meeting allowed for public comments, where a resident voiced frustration with the new leaf and brush collection schedule. The council then moved to approve meeting minutes and discuss the first draft of the budget, highlighting a 10% increase in the total taxable property base.