A critical segment of the meeting focused on financial transparency and the borough’s fiscal policies. Resident Mil Woodruff raised pointed questions regarding Ordinance 2786, which deals with storage calculations based on water consumption. Woodruff inquired about the shift from using 12 months of data to focusing on winter months and sought clarification on how this change would affect costs. The council explained that the adjustments were designed to exclude water used for non-essential purposes, like filling pools.

Woodruff also scrutinized the borough’s bond amounts, highlighting an increase from $1.6 million to $3.9 million despite the borough’s financial position showing approximately $6.7 million in cash and investments and a $2 million surplus. He questioned the rationale behind the tax increases and emphasized the need for transparency regarding the utilization of surplus funds.

Another topic was the dismissed court challenge regarding the Cannabis MD application. The court ruled that the application lacked proper notice, nullifying the board’s previous decision. This means that the applicant must refile, and the board will need to rescind the prior resolution in September. This issue is expected to draw further public commentary.

Infrastructure projects were also a key focus. The council discussed the upcoming resurfacing project on Route 28, which will impact parking due to the removal of pavement markings. Clarification was sought about the project’s duration and specific impacts on parking, with assurances that more detailed information would be provided as it becomes available. Additionally, updates on Berwin and Avon streets were mentioned, with challenges noted due to coordination with NJ DOT, yet reaffirming positivity regarding forthcoming street and sidewalk improvements.

The council also addressed the equitable allocation of sewer and stormwater fees. A participant suggested that the current system, which charges identical fees for both residential houses and multi-story apartment units, is inequitable. They argued that a small apartment unit should not contribute the same amount as a large house with significant impervious surface area contributing to stormwater runoff. The council acknowledged the potential administrative burden of implementing separate fee structures but remained optimistic about the benefits of such changes.

The topic of tree planting also came up, with a council member inquiring about the status of tree planting for the fall season. Some residents had requested trees, emphasizing the importance of community involvement in maintaining them. The council noted that funds were allocated for trees that were not planted in the previous cycle and suggested a fresh questionnaire to gauge resident interest. They also focused on selecting appropriate tree species for planting locations and mentioned that the new Department of Public Works (DPW) superintendent would conduct a survey of potential planting sites.

In community engagement, the council reported on a series of resolutions and announcements. Notable appointments included Zachariah Vargas and Elijah Castro as members of the Roselle Park Fire Department, and promotions for alternate crossing guards Joseph Evans and Roger Sue. The council acknowledged the service of long-serving crossing guard Louise Wright and expressed condolences to various community members.

Reports from council members highlighted summer events, such as the fourth annual community cooldowns, the second annual family swim night, and a meeting with Easy Ride to discuss the Safe Streets campaign. They also noted infrastructure improvements, including milling and paving at Pine and Larch, alongside safety enhancements with yellow curbing and striping.

Resident concerns during the public comments portion included a personal safety issue with an individual knocking on doors without proper credentials, frustrations over permit fee increases, and suggestions for promoting helmet safety among children. Additionally, a resident proposed using funds from a national settlement for health programs, with the council clarifying that the funds were allocated for opioid awareness educational programs.