The council spent considerable time addressing concerns raised by resident Jim Robinson regarding the borough’s substantial payments to JCP&L for street lighting. The $67,000 bill, with $38,000 allocated specifically for street lights, sparked debate over the borough’s payment obligations given that the lights are not metered. Robinson questioned the borough’s payment practices, pointing out that money is spent regardless of whether the streetlights are operational. He suggested revisiting a 1985 agreement that allows withholding payments for non-functioning lights, emphasizing the impact on public safety. An attorney confirmed the borough’s ability to withhold payments under the agreement, stating that they are exploring this option. The council considered inviting a JCP&L representative to discuss these unresolved issues in more detail at the next meeting.

Another heated topic involved the so-called “Goose Gate” incident, where Robinson criticized the borough’s statements about dead geese in Kennedy Park. He challenged claims that the geese had not tested positive for avian flu, revealing that the birds were not tested at all. Robinson demanded transparency regarding the testing process, the number of deceased geese, and the borough’s rationale for its previous statements. The mayor defended the integrity of the borough’s staff and clarified that personal reasons, not an attempt to suppress dissent, led to the blocking of Robinson’s communications.

The council also took steps in passing two critical ordinances concerning the salaries of borough officials from 2025 to 2027. Ordinance 8-25 was adopted without public comment, while Ordinance 9-25, which affects Recreation Department employees, prompted Robinson to voice concerns about the determination of pay rates for junior and senior counselors. He advocated for fixed rates, arguing that the state minimum wage law may not apply to seasonal park counselors. Despite the concerns, the council adopted both ordinances unanimously.

In the realm of public safety, reports on the fire department’s preparations for an ISO meeting and developments in the borough’s Emergency Operations Plan were presented. The Office of Emergency Management (OEM) is working towards a disaster simulation exercise scheduled for April and is collaborating on a school reunification plan. Additionally, the police department is rolling out a wellness app for officers and their families, funded by the Department of Justice.

Appointments during the meeting included VJ Shaw to the Cultural Arts Commission and the authorization to appoint Sarah Logman and Linda Kelly as cashiers in the tax department. The council further highlighted upcoming community events, such as health presentations, sports activities, and cultural events.