The council engaged in a detailed presentation on the creation of the health insurance fund, presented by Vivana Lamb and Susan Bazar, who emphasized that municipalities typically gain competitive pricing and enhanced benefits through such collaborative efforts. The fund targets a 13.8% rate for active members and 14.3% for retirees, positioning itself as a competitive alternative to the state health benefits plan. However, members expressed concerns about the potential financial impact if larger municipalities were to exit the fund, thus increasing costs for smaller entities like Fair Haven. Lamb assured that the fund’s structure includes reinsurance via a stop-loss policy, safeguarding against substantial claims.

Questions about the fund’s capital structure were also addressed, revealing that premiums and a capital reserve managed by Horizon back the insurance offerings. The council discussed the mechanics of entering and exiting such funds, highlighting a necessary three-year commitment with some flexibility if unfavorable conditions arise. The role of fund commissioners, representing each participating municipality, was clarified as pivotal in maintaining governance and ensuring transparency.

Another vital topic was the fiscal implications of a $50 million state bond related to health insurance, which might affect future rates. The council assessed how changes to health insurance could save costs, noting past challenges with securing favorable insurance bids due to high claim rates. They also considered the continuation of Medicare Advantage and Part B reimbursements, debating whether to eliminate the latter for future retirees.

The conversation also touched on collective bargaining agreements expiring soon, underlining that any health insurance changes would need to align with union negotiations. The council recognized the urgency of these decisions, aiming to finalize proposals before the June deadline to avoid recalculated rates, which could disadvantage the borough financially.

Public feedback largely focused on whether the new health insurance plan would maintain existing coverage standards and doctor networks, with assurances given that service quality would be preserved or improved.

In addition to health insurance, the council addressed the ongoing Maple Avenue landscaping project, which had undergone revisions due to unforeseen circumstances. Initial cost estimates of $663,185 were reassessed, with a revised cost of $48,340 for Maple Avenue enhancements. Concerns were raised about the necessity and efficiency of the landscaping strategy, questioning whether the plan’s scale was excessive, especially given the removal of existing trees and the need for stormwater management.

Similarly, the council examined the Fish Chapel parking lot’s stormwater management system, which exceeded budget constraints by nearly $500,000. This prompted discussions on the feasibility of implementing multiple stormwater systems to better manage water flow issues in Fair Haven. The council deliberated on reallocating resources for a more effective community-wide solution, considering the historical challenges with the existing infrastructure.

The meeting also featured a debate on municipal regulations, focusing on code enforcement and resident communication. Suggestions included providing written guidelines with non-compliance notices and marking non-compliant piles with spray paint as educational warnings. The council explored amending the fee schedule for food establishment licenses, aligning with Jersey Shore Regional Health Commission changes.

Public comments addressed stormwater management and the potential for utilizing community space for multiple purposes. Concerns were voiced about native plantings and their maintenance, with suggestions for involving volunteer groups or the Green Team in managing these installations.