0:05The Tuckerton Borough Council’s recent meeting highlighted significant infrastructural and community developments. The council unanimously passed a bond ordinance amounting to $1,275,000 for the replacement of sanitary sewer mains on Daddy Tucker Drive. This decision marks a substantial investment in the borough’s infrastructure, aimed at enhancing the efficiency and reliability of essential services for residents. The ordinance’s passage came without any public objections during the comment period.

In addition to the infrastructure developments, the council issued a proclamation celebrating the 175th anniversary of the Tuckerton Library. This recognition underscores the library’s role as a vital community hub, offering access to knowledge, technology, and resources. The council declared April 6 to 12, 2025, as National Library Week, encouraging residents to engage with the library’s diverse offerings. Ellen O., the branch manager, and Karen Aan, the president of the library trustees, were present to highlight upcoming programs, which include genealogy advice sessions, maritime history lectures, and environmental workshops, further enriching the community’s cultural and educational landscape.

The council also laid the groundwork for future financial planning by introducing ordinance number three of 2025, concerning municipal budget appropriations limits and establishing a cap bank. This ordinance, along with ordinance number four regarding the acquisition of a police vehicle and an ambulance, will be open for public comments in the next meeting. In related financial matters, the council introduced the 2025 municipal budget, setting a budget hearing for April 21, 2025. The preliminary figures include total miscellaneous revenues of $1,343,568.12 and local municipal tax revenues amounting to $4,357,744.46, with operating expenses for salaries and wages projected at $2,516,174.39.

21:34A resolution was passed authorizing the sale of municipally owned property for $190,000, matching the minimum bid price. This resolution received unanimous support. Additionally, the council approved a resolution to omit a property from the tax sale, providing the owner an opportunity to pay their tax debt in equal monthly installments, thus offering some financial relief.

The council addressed various appointments during the meeting. Thomas Olen was appointed as the alternate electric subcode official and electric inspector, with his term set to expire at the end of 2025. This role is crucial in maintaining electrical safety and compliance across the borough. The appointment of a new municipal court judge, Magistrate Esquire, was also confirmed, alongside appointments to the historic preservation and economic development committees, highlighting the council’s focus on sustaining and nurturing both historical and economic growth.

Public safety was a focal point, with a report from the police department indicating a busy month with 525 calls for service in February, including 12 arrests. The council acknowledged the department’s efforts and the importance of maintaining public safety. Resignations from both a laborer and a patrolman were accepted with regret.

Community engagement remained a priority, with the Pride and Celebration Committee announcing an Easter egg hunt, and the Environmental Committee organizing a cleanup event, both scheduled for April 5, 2025. These initiatives encourage resident participation and foster community spirit. The meeting also concluded with public comments, including a report from the Parkertown Fire Company, detailing their activities and inviting council members to a community meet-and-greet event.