The meeting commenced with an in-depth presentation from the Department of Public Works (DPW), which oversees a complex network of responsibilities across the borough. Superintendent Anthony Marelli detailed the department’s operations, emphasizing the maintenance of 60 miles of borough-owned roads, alongside state and county properties. A particular challenge highlighted was the inadequate maintenance by state agencies, leading to line-of-sight issues on ramps. Marelli described ongoing efforts to address these concerns, including coordination with Boswell Engineering to tackle stormwater infiltration in the wastewater system—a problem with financial implications for the borough.

The council also revisited local road restoration policies, implementing a change that mandates complete restoration by public service entities following trench work. This policy shift was driven by extensive public service work, which saw notable paving last year. Upcoming discussions with public service representatives are anticipated to ensure compliance and address any outstanding road repairs.

In parallel, the council discussed broader road improvement initiatives, supported by a $200,000 grant for specific repaving projects and over $300,000 in unused funds from previous allocations. Additional funding is earmarked for downtown enhancements, focusing on visible improvements such as sidewalk repairs. Plans for collaboration with adjacent property owners aim to leverage these improvements for broader community benefits.

The fire department’s operational status was another focal point, with the chief introducing his team and outlining the department’s structure, which includes 55 volunteer firefighters across two firehouses. The department responded to 432 calls last year, dedicating over 3,000 volunteer hours to various emergencies. The council emphasized the need for budgetary allocations to support the department’s operations, including the replacement of aging equipment and the acquisition of essential tools like thermal imaging cameras and battery-operated cutters for rescue operations.

Budgetary discussions extended to the police department, where Acting Chief Tim Keenan outlined current staffing challenges, following the retirement of five senior officers last year. The department’s focus is on maintaining accreditation and enhancing community engagement through social media and programs like Safety Town, which introduces police officers to young children. The council highlighted the strategic importance of training and developing younger officers to ensure future leadership within the department.

A significant portion of the discussion revolved around the borough’s data management strategies and associated costs. Transitioning to a virtualized environment with a per-person licensing model has increased expenses, particularly concerning the Automatic License Plate Reader (ALPR) program. Despite the costs, the ALPR system has proven effective, contributing to several arrests related to package thefts. Plans are underway to expand ALPR coverage to all borough entrances and exits for enhanced security.

The council also addressed issues with body cameras provided by WatchGuard, with numerous failures prompting a transition to a more reliable model from Axon. Funding strategies, including grant applications for body cameras and body armor, were discussed to support these upgrades and maintain operational efficiency.

Finally, budget reallocation discussions proposed enhancements to downtown signage and additional transportation for the senior center. The council expressed a commitment to introducing a revised budget, with a public hearing scheduled to ensure community involvement in these developments.