The most pressing topic was the council’s exploration of a shared services agreement for CDL (Commercial Driver’s License) training. The proposed plan suggested an average cost of approximately $700 per employee, lower than the previous $4,000 per class. This initiative, aimed at making CDL training more affordable and accessible, was seen as a potential solution to improve municipal services. A participant noted satisfaction that another town had stepped up to provide training options, highlighting past failed attempts to collaborate with Rockaway and Sussex.

The discussion around the CDL training agreement included considerations for cost-sharing mechanisms, like payroll deductions, although it was noted that this might not be feasible. Instead, a dialogue about the costs and federal training requirements was suggested, with an emphasis on creating a straightforward acknowledgment for participating employees rather than altering existing contracts. This approach aimed to simplify the process and avoid complications.

In addition to the CDL training, the council addressed concerns about inadequate lighting along the path to the train station, particularly affecting residents on American Road and in the Beach Drive development. A resident emphasized the urgency of this issue due to darker evenings. The discussion revealed mixed feelings among residents, with some complaining about existing lights being overly bright and intrusive. The council discussed designs for new solar-powered lights that would reduce glare and ensure better visibility while maintaining aesthetic consistency with existing fixtures.

Mental health resources were another topic. A resident commended the council for organizing a well-attended mental health symposium and highlighted the importance of providing resources for issues like substance abuse and mental health. The resident urged improvements to the borough’s website to include more comprehensive links to county and state mental health services. This call to action aimed to enhance accessibility and was proposed to be integrated with an upcoming informational video on mental health resources.

The council also celebrated promotions within the local police department. Chief Koski introduced Robert Gil, who was sworn in as Lieutenant, and Joe Hines, who was sworn in as Sergeant. Both officers expressed gratitude to their families and colleagues. Chief Koski praised their capabilities and the significance of their new leadership roles, emphasizing their influence on younger officers. The ceremony included a moment for photographs to commemorate the occasion.

Further discussions touched upon the borough’s transition to an online permitting system within the building department. This new portal would offer real-time access for both the department and residents, streamlining the permitting process. The council acknowledged that the implementation would take time for proper establishment and integration.

An ordinance concerning tree removal and replacement also came under scrutiny. The ordinance had been pulled due to non-compliance with state requirements, as it did not include all necessary property types. Updates from the overseeing committee were expected, and there were inquiries about the next steps since the submission deadline had passed.

Additionally, there was a call for regular updates from the planning board. Some council members noted that they had not received information since June.

The meeting concluded with the council entering an executive session to discuss matters permitted under specific legal provisions, after which the public was asked to leave, with a commitment from the council to return by a specified time.