The council’s decision to introduce Ordinance 2024-30, aimed at prohibiting short-term rentals, marked a noteworthy development in local housing policy. The ordinance was moved, seconded, and subsequently passed unanimously after a brief discussion among council members. The ordinance’s introduction follows concerns about maintaining the character of residential areas and ensuring adequate housing availability for long-term residents.

In a related effort to promote community engagement and support local culture, the council passed resolutions supporting grant applications for two significant arts initiatives. The first resolution backed the Actor Studio of New Jersey in its bid to establish a residency in Dunellen. Council members emphasized the importance of fostering a vibrant arts scene, noting that Dunellen is one of only 13 towns statewide eligible for such funding. The second resolution provided a letter of support for the Mammoth Museum’s plan to open a satellite gallery. Both resolutions received unanimous approval.

Infrastructure and community improvement projects also featured prominently in the council’s agenda. The Department of Public Works reported on ongoing efforts to install new LED lights for downtown wreaths. Plans are in place to enhance the brightness of these decorations by May, contributing to the town’s welcoming environment. Additionally, Council Member Sigmon encouraged community participation in the Arts Inclusion Culture Commission’s annual holiday painting project, inviting volunteers to help adorn storefronts with festive scenes.

The council acknowledged progress in infrastructure upgrades, highlighted by the New Jersey Department of Transportation’s (NJDOT) project to improve ADA compliance in sidewalk ramps along North Avenue. The initiative, which began on November 14, includes replacing outdated ramps and installing push-button flashing beacon lights at key intersections to improve pedestrian safety. These efforts align with the council’s broader vision of enhancing accessibility and safety throughout the borough.

Further bolstering the town’s infrastructure, Dunellen received a $46,800 grant from the NJDOT for the Sanford Avenue Municipal Aid project. This funding will go towards curb and sidewalk enhancements and the installation of a new flashing beacon crosswalk by 2027. The council also discussed updates from CME Engineers on downtown wayfinding signage and the forthcoming bidding process for Washington Avenue street lighting improvements.

In addition to infrastructure and cultural initiatives, the council focused on efficient management of borough resources. They introduced a bond ordinance for acquiring police department equipment, allocating $130,000 with authorization for $123,800 in bonds. This ordinance passed unanimously.

Emergency management was another key topic, with reports highlighting the Office of Emergency Management’s completion of surveys for emergency shelter use at local schools. The OEM is poised to submit a memorandum of understanding to the Dunellen School District.