A significant portion of the meeting was devoted to the debate over Ordinance 1807, which seeks to amend the redevelopment plan for a property on West Collins Avenue, a site that used to house an old firehouse. The planning board already approved a plan to convert the space into three separate rental units, with the “Ends of the Earth” cigar and coffee shop as the only confirmed tenant. Some council members questioned the necessity of adopting the ordinance since the planning board had already granted permission for the proposed changes. One member highlighted the borough’s increased control over businesses through redevelopment plans, noting, “If it’s a redevelopment plan that’s adopted, the borough has the ability to have greater control and input into how that business operates than it does when it’s straight out.”

Public comments on this matter included concerns about the cigar club’s ownership structure and its implications for the community, particularly its proximity to children. A representative from Tobacco for Health New Jersey addressed the council, emphasizing that for a cigar lounge to be legally recognized, it must have been established before December 31, 2004. This revelation intensified the debate about the potential health impacts and regulatory compliance of the proposed business.

The council also considered Ordinance 1809, focused on utility improvements, proposing significant allocations from the water and sewer capital improvement funds to address existing infrastructure issues. Public comments were invited, as the ordinance is set for adoption soon. Meanwhile, Ordinance 1810 was introduced to authorize a tax abatement for redeveloping the former Sun Bank property on Avenue. The project aims to convert the first floor into commercial units with residential units above, supported by a five-year payment in lieu of taxes (PILOT) agreement. Additionally, Ordinance 1811 proposed $100,000 for preliminary costs for improvements at Scottish Freddy, linked to a cultural arts disabilities expansion program grant application.

Ordinance 1812 was introduced to amend the developer plan for 101 Wester Boulevard, where a school supply store currently operates in a residential zone. The amendment seeks to broaden business activities in the area to attract new tenants, addressing concerns about restrictive zoning.

Public safety concerns were also a key topic, with resident Dennis Frasier raising issues about inadequate lighting in the municipal parking lot at East Collins and Maple Streets. Frasier reported multiple vehicle break-ins and emphasized the risk of accidents due to poor visibility. He urged the council to liaise with Public Service Electric and Gas (PSEG) for repairs and recommended a nighttime inspection to assess the situation.

Another resident, Eric, voiced dissatisfaction with the pocket park, criticizing its impervious material despite the borough’s long-term drainage improvement plans. He questioned the aesthetic impact of a large tent in the center of town, which is linked to a state law allowing permanent outdoor restaurant expansions, thus limiting local zoning control. Eric suggested advocating for the tent’s appearance to be improved despite these restrictions.

Concerns about motorcycle gatherings on Hat Avenue were also discussed. A resident named Tom described them as significant disruptions and questioned whether the borough had sought advice from neighboring communities on addressing the issue. Borough leadership acknowledged the need for data collection to support efforts to address the concern at a higher level, and they promised to raise the matter at an upcoming county mayors’ association meeting.

The meeting also included the swearing-in of new firefighters and police officers, highlighting community engagement and the importance of public service. Resolutions were passed for various projects, including the Lincoln Avenue project, downtown gateway project, and ADA compliance. A shared service agreement with the local Board of Education for custodial services was renewed, and a library grant for digitizing retrospective additions was approved.