The council’s decision to adopt the DCA’s affordable housing calculations is a strategic step to ensure Lake Como’s proactive involvement in determining where affordable housing units will be situated within the community. This decision was propelled by a new state law signed by Governor Murphy, which established a framework for assessing municipal affordable housing needs. By embracing these calculations, the borough aims to prevent developers from exerting undue influence and imposing large housing projects without community consent. The resolution passed unanimously.

The mayor, along with another council member, highlighted the importance of the resolution, emphasizing that it grants the borough authority to devise its own affordable housing plans. The council’s decision provides a framework that can help maintain the town’s character while meeting state housing mandates.

In another significant agenda item, the council introduced Ordinance 20251, which adjusts the salary ranges for certain borough employees, reflecting a 3.5% increase effective from January 1, 2025. The ordinance, which received approval following a roll call vote, adjusts salary ranges based on percentage increases received since 2022. Clarifications were made during the meeting to ensure that the adjustments were understood to be reflective of the roles specified in the ordinance. This measure aims to keep the borough’s compensation competitive and fair for its employees.

The meeting also addressed a grant application for $100,000 intended for improvements to Bman Park. The proposed enhancements include lighting, landscaping, and fence reconstruction. It was confirmed during the discussions that the grant would not require matching funds, making it a financially viable opportunity for the borough. The resolution received unanimous support from the council.

Infrastructure and public service concerns were also discussed, particularly regarding potholes, litter, and streetlights. The mayor acknowledged resident complaints about potholes emerging due to winter weather and ongoing construction, assuring that the Department of Public Works (DPW) would address these issues as conditions improve. Litter concerns were also noted, with the mayor reminding residents and business owners of their responsibility to maintain property cleanliness.

Furthermore, the mayor reported that 36 streetlights across the borough were nonfunctional, highlighting an ongoing issue that requires attention. Additionally, hotel tax revenue was reported to have reached $51,988.75 as of November 2024, providing a financial update to the community.

The council also approved a temporary appropriation resolution to maintain borough operations until the adoption of the new budget. Alongside this, a resolution authorizing payments from various accounts was approved, covering substantial amounts from the current account, general capital fund, and tourism account.

Public involvement in the meeting was minimal, with no speakers stepping forward during the segment for new business and the consent agenda. However, a resident later inquired about the role of a special tax counsel, seeking clarification on the responsibilities associated with this legal position. It was explained that the special counsel handles tax appeals, representing the borough in negotiations related to tax assessments. This explanation helped clarify the resident’s initial confusion.

Finally, the meeting concluded with a scheduling announcement for the next council meeting, set for February 4th at 7:30 PM. The session was adjourned following a motion and second.