Joseph D., a resident of 102 Valley Avenue, brought attention to the longstanding issues surrounding the 14-32 North Street property. He emphasized that despite developments over the past year, the property remains vulnerable to flooding during severe storms. Joseph expressed frustration over the apparent lack of enforcement actions by the borough, despite assurances that action would follow the removal of a land use board member responsible for the property. He articulated his concern by stating, “A lot has happened in the last year and the last three years as well to get us to this point,” highlighting the urgency of addressing the potential damage from flooding.

Joseph questioned the borough’s authority and responsibility in enforcing regulations, particularly regarding the steep slope and tree removals. He argued that the removal of trees had exacerbated the steep slope issues, stating, “The consequence of taking trees down violated the steep slope.” A borough representative, referred to as Mr. B, attempted to clarify that a tree removal permit had been issued, which limited enforcement actions. However, Joseph insisted that the permit was improperly granted, as the engineering department was not involved until after the trees were removed.

The dialogue underscored conflicting views on the borough’s responsibilities and the validity of the tree removal permit. Joseph urged the council to take decisive action, emphasizing the risk of significant consequences if the issues remain unaddressed. His concerns extended to property values and safety, noting that potential buyers might be deterred by the flooding risk. He concluded with a plea for clarity and action, stating, “If something terrible does happen, where does that leave all of us?”

Another topic at the meeting was the introduction of Resolution R24 168, authorizing the borough land use board to investigate whether a particular property could be designated as a condemnation redevelopment area under local Redevelopment and Housing law. The property had degraded after being sold to a new owner who failed to implement necessary repairs. The council discussed the importance of a structural report from engineers, which could be a critical step toward an eminent domain process to facilitate repairs.

The meeting also covered a range of infrastructure improvements. The council approved a change order for Lynden Avenue improvements, which included sidewalk enhancements and resolution of a drainage issue on Shore Drive. Satisfaction was expressed over the effective drainage into the storm system. A batch of resolutions in the consent agenda was approved without dissent, including the renewal of a floodplain management software contract and the awarding of a contract for drainage improvements on Portland Road.

Mayor Carolyn Broullon introduced a discussion about a Hometown Grant opportunity for municipalities with populations under 50,000. Potential uses for the grant were discussed, such as public art installations and technology upgrades, in anticipation of the 250th anniversary of the Revolution. A specific proposal mentioned was the creation of a bronze statue of Captain Huie. The mayor emphasized the importance of public engagement in the grant application process.

Further discussions included updates on the town’s website transition to a new domain and upcoming non-binding referendums on regionalization set for the November ballot. The mayor reported on various emergency service statistics and community engagement, citing over 245 completed survey responses regarding local governance.

In terms of ongoing projects, the council highlighted the completion of Lynden Avenue’s sidewalk and drainage work, with paving scheduled for Central Avenue. Additional county paving plans were confirmed, and the council discussed the approval of the Portland Road drainage project. An $86,000 grant was confirmed for updates to Frank Hall Park, intended as a spring project. Moreover, an asset activation grant was awarded for planning updates to the James T. Clan plant.