Nick Perchinsky and Rich Gardella provided a comprehensive presentation on stormwater management, detailing the new IFP rules from the DEP. These rules are a response to changing rainfall patterns and their impact on local infrastructure. The council discussed the necessity of adhering to these regulations and the challenges of integrating the new mandates into existing systems. The changes introduced by the IFP rules require the borough to increase design flood elevation, use projected precipitation data for calculations, and discontinue older methods of stormwater calculation.

The council addressed multiple aspects of stormwater management, from the inspection and cleaning of inlets and basins to the separation of stormwater systems from regular sewer systems. The conversation also turned to the potential environmental implications of chemical use on lawns and the flow of stormwater into residential yards.

One of the concerns raised during the meeting was funding and preparation for stormwater management-related work items, including the mapping of infrastructure to identify high-risk areas in the borough. There was an expressed interest in exploring regulations and measures that exceed the state’s minimum requirements, such as DIY green infrastructure and its effects on homeowners. The council considered the use of awarded funds for stormwater projects, emphasizing the need for a plan that accounts for the interconnectedness of different areas and infrastructure.

The limited budget and engineering resources were highlighted as constraints in addressing stormwater issues, prompting discussions on creative solutions and various projects aimed at improving management. These include the Third Street project, H Road and Cooney project, and the River Road Corridor project. The council acknowledged the challenges posed by retrofitting new regulations into the existing infrastructure and the responsibility of builders to comply with these standards.

Future construction standards and maintenance requirements were also explored, with the council debating the long-term impact of these on the stormwater system. Concerns about the costs of the mandates and the state’s support in implementing them were raised, as the additional regulations could increase the workload of the borough’s departments.

The potential implications of the mandates on ongoing projects, such as the renovations of the Police Department and Community Center, were discussed. The council looked at the incorporation of stormwater management measures into these renovations, including rain gardens and recharge systems.

Beyond stormwater management, the council approved a fundraising proposal from the Beautification Committee for a buoy tree project, which involves the Foundation of Fair Haven. They also discussed a workshop session to amend the borough code to add a “Resident Protection” section under police regulations, addressing concerns related to electronic devices used to detect electronic keys in vehicles.

Public comments included inquiries about stormwater management effectiveness and concerns about construction site sludge in drains. A member of the public, Stephanie Adams, suggested an initiative requiring the encapsulation of waste products at construction sites to prevent contamination of storm drains.

In addition to stormwater management discussions, the council deliberated on a community-based deer management grant program. While they approved moving forward with the grant application, there was a need for more information regarding any potential obligations associated with accepting the grant.

Other topics briefly touched upon included the use of pesticides in Marter Park to control mining bees, with the council assuring adherence to guidelines and the scheduling of treatments. Public comments highlighted the need for better communication regarding the spraying of parks.