18:34A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to the complicated issue of meeting formats as the pandemic continues to affect public gatherings. The council discussed the legal and logistical challenges of transitioning back to in-person meetings, especially for statutory boards like the Environmental Commission and the Historic Preservation Commission, which are required by law to meet in person once Borough Hall reopens. The council recognized that while some groups must adhere to in-person formats, other committees could explore remote or hybrid meeting options.

The debate was characterized by contrasting opinions on whether committees without a statutory obligation should have the option for hybrid meetings, allowing some members to participate remotely while others attend physically. One council member pointed out the potential issues with hybrid meetings, suggesting that if only one person attends in person, it undermines the meeting’s effectiveness. It was proposed that a majority of members should be present physically if hybrid meetings were to be pursued, thereby prioritizing in-person attendance.

The council also considered allowing committees to choose between fully remote or hybrid formats, with one member advocating for a vote among committee members to decide their preference.

The logistical implications of hybrid meetings were another point of concern, with the council discussing the technical challenges of scheduling multiple meetings simultaneously, given the limited availability of Zoom accounts. A consensus emerged that a designated individual should manage the technical aspects of hybrid meetings to prevent confusion.

In pursuit of a clear policy, the council proposed conducting an informal survey of various committees to understand their preferences regarding meeting formats. This survey would provide insights into whether committees prefer in-person or remote meetings and how they would like to structure their meetings moving forward. The council agreed to postpone further decisions until more information was gathered from the committees.

33:20Beyond meeting logistics, traffic safety issues raised by resident Raymond Stitz were another pressing topic. Stitz highlighted two concerns: chaotic traffic conditions at the intersection of Howen and Bogert during school drop-off times and safety issues on the service road off Route 4. He suggested implementing a “Don’t Block the Box” measure to improve traffic flow and reduce the potential for accidents involving children. Stitz also warned of the risk of head-on collisions on the service road, noting that drivers unfamiliar with the road layout could pose a danger. In response, the council agreed to forward Stitz’s concerns to the Traffic Safety Committee and local law enforcement, with a commitment to update him on any progress.

18:34The council also addressed the formation of a committee for the borough’s 250th-anniversary celebration, scheduled for July 4, 2026. Eric Modell volunteered to chair this committee, with the council encouraging other members to consult their respective commissions and committees for volunteers. A formal resolution will be necessary to officially establish the committee, and the council plans to review resolutions from other towns with similar committees.

33:20As part of the meeting’s proceedings, the council received updates on the veterans’ banners program. Although participation has been limited, Stitz remained optimistic about increased interest in the spring. He proposed placing additional banners in high-traffic areas to promote the program further, and the council discussed the legal implications of placing banners in public offices.

The meeting concluded with acknowledgments for the dedication of local volunteers. The Fire Department Chief expressed gratitude for the council’s support, specifically recognizing the efforts of a council member who consistently participated in training events. The council also commended the Department of Public Works for their recent storm response and welcomed a new council member.