The council’s primary focus was on infrastructure improvements, with discussions on upcoming paving and drainage projects. Mayor Eric Kulmala reported that Franklin Avenue is set to be paved by the end of September, following a pre-construction meeting with the county and contractor. Concrete work for sidewalk cutouts will begin right after Labor Day, while milling and paving on Truman Boulevard and Lenpy Lane are scheduled to start the week following the meeting. Notifications for residents will be posted accordingly.

Further, the Alam and Brook project has initiated repair work for hurricane damage, expected to continue for two to three weeks. In Bush Plaza, the installation of a fence has been completed, with lighting installation planned for the following week, and a flagpole is expected to be erected in early September. A clock is anticipated to arrive by mid to late September, with a dedication ceremony scheduled for October.

The Patriots Way bridge project also saw progress as utilities have been secured and deconstruction of the old water main is underway. The council plans to share photos and videos of the fabrication process in an upcoming newsletter, as part of an effort to maintain transparency and keep residents informed.

During the public comment session, resident Nikolai Carlson raised concerns about alleged conspiracies involving local government, police, and mental health professionals. Carlson described a long-standing traumatic experience he attributes to these conspiracies, which he believes are linked to his father’s business ties and his own claims of harassment related to music creations. He called on the council to investigate the matter, seeking a response after years of perceived neglect.

Another resident, William Cyy, inquired about sidewalk improvements along Route 202 and voiced concerns about runoff from a nearby development project in Mahwah, which could potentially exacerbate flooding in Oakland. He urged the council to ensure that developers implement adequate stormwater management measures and suggested that the borough engineer contact the developers to verify compliance with environmental standards.

As part of the meeting, a tribute to David C. Bush was presented, recognizing his historical significance as a founding father of Oakland. The council decided to name an area at the intersection of West Oakland and Yo after him, calling it Bush Park.

The council also appointed two members to the Arts Committee and approved a request from LAR Developers to continue working on Saturdays, noting that there had been no complaints from residents about the extended work hours.

Financial resolutions included authorizing payouts and refunds, as well as contracts related to municipal projects. A specific resolution concerning the approval of a LOSAP credit passed with one abstention. Additionally, a resolution for the temporary hiring of a finance office clerk received approval with one abstention.

During the work session, Mr. Coons presented details about upcoming water and storm improvement projects, specifically targeting Harvard Way and West Oakland Avenue, where aging water mains are due for replacement. A proposal was discussed to replace approximately 1300 linear feet of pipe running from Pool Hollow to Pton Lakes, which has experienced multiple breaks over the years. Plans for further drainage solutions on Harvard Street were also reviewed, addressing roadway water accumulation and winter icing that pose safety concerns.

Recognition for community contributions was also a notable part of the meeting. A proclamation honored Benjamin Good for his contributions to the television committee since seventh grade. His work has elevated the quality of the borough’s programming, earning him the Jag award and co-recipient status for the Communicator award during the pandemic. Mr. Good was presented with a commemorative coin and congratulated for his upcoming college journey at Stevens Institute of Technology.

The council acknowledged the success of the summer reading program at the library and announced a kindergarten kickoff event at the end of August. The recreation committee is preparing for winter signups, encouraging community members to volunteer for youth sports programs.