Several residents from North Street took the floor during the public comment period to highlight ongoing sewage issues that have plagued their homes for years. Rich described the urgency of addressing “sewage backing up into our homes on North Street” after a severe storm on August 18. He pointed out that the local pumping station becomes overwhelmed during heavy rainfall, leading to these backups, and suggested revisiting an amnesty program that had previously allowed residents to correct illegal sump pump connections without facing fines.

Salvatore Poo echoed similar concerns, detailing his experiences with sewage flooding his basement and the fear that grips residents every time a storm approaches. Despite installing check valves, these measures do not always provide protection, he said. Teresa Nigro, another long-time North Street resident, emphasized the health hazards posed by the sewage backups, which have persisted for over 40 years. She expressed particular concern for her elderly neighbors and stressed that despite their investments in preventative measures, the problem remains unresolved.

Joe P, president of the Northstar Club, cited the financial burden of remediation efforts, sharing that costs for sewage backups can exceed $6,000. Steven Miller, another resident, stated that the sewage issues have persisted since 1955. Other residents, including Valerie Triano and Rock Nigro, added their voices to the collective plea, describing the distress and disruption caused by the sewage incidents.

The council responded by acknowledging the challenges faced by residents and explaining the technical aspects of the borough’s sewer system. The system primarily relies on gravity to transport sewage to the treatment plant in Chatham but faces complications in lower-lying neighborhoods, necessitating pump stations. The issue of inflow and infiltration (I&I), where stormwater seeps into sewer lines, was also noted as a contributing factor. The council committed to investigating the cause of the stormwater inflow and reassured residents that both short-term and long-term solutions would be pursued.

In other significant business, the council adopted Ordinance 30, which appropriated $1,400,000 from the General Capital Improvement Fund for a new Cyclone compressed air foam system fire engine. The new fire truck, described as “state-of-the-art” by one council member, will feature advanced foam-blasting capabilities. Concerns about the chemicals in the foam used for fire suppression were addressed, with assurances that harmful past chemicals would not be included in the new system.

Ordinance 29, part of a matching grant for museum repairs, was also adopted. This ordinance will provide substantial funding to repair the Museum of Early Trades and Crafts. Both ordinances were passed after roll call votes and will be published in local newspapers.

The council also discussed the Cook Avenue parking lot project, emphasizing the importance of its timely completion before community events, particularly Bottle Hill Day on October 5. Madison Electric Utility staff were thanked for their efforts in installing temporary lighting to enhance safety. Additionally, updates from the Downtown Development Commission (DDC) included reminders about upcoming events such as the Madison Farmers Market, the 29th annual Madison Car Show, and various family-friendly activities.

Proclamations for Hispanic Heritage Month and Breast Cancer Awareness Month were presented. The Hispanic Heritage Month proclamation recognized the contributions of Hispanic residents under the national theme “Pioneers of Change: Shaping the Future Together.” The Breast Cancer Awareness Month proclamation aimed to raise awareness about the disease and emphasized the importance of early detection and the disparities faced by underserved communities.

During committee reports, the public safety report highlighted the fire department’s training to meet New Jersey Department of Health standards, including classes on stroke awareness. The fire department’s EMS division received approval to expand its scope of practice to include administering new medications and using glucometers for diabetic emergencies. The Madison Police Department reported the addition of two new dispatchers and preparations for the upcoming Bottle Hill Day event.

The finance committee reminded residents of the deadline for the senior freeze property tax reimbursement application and shared a draft of the five-year capital plan. The public works and engineering report discussed preparations for the leaf collection season and proper disposal methods for yard waste. The Madison Environmental Commission reported a successful Echo Garden Tour and efforts to remove invasive plant species from local parks.