The council approved a bid for the redevelopment and enhancement of Frank Hall Park and the creation of Overlook Park. This combined bidding process aims to maximize cost savings while pursuing three grants to fund the upgrades. Further efforts include grant applications submitted in July for resurfacing playgrounds at Veterans Huty and Wreck, as well as repairing the deteriorating Snug Harbor courts. The council is also working towards securing a community development block grant to replace dilapidated sidewalks along Route 36. A Safe Routes to Transit initiative was discussed, which would improve sidewalks from Water Witch to Valley Avenue, addressing the need for better walkable infrastructure within the community.

In addition to park and infrastructure initiatives, the council is seeking grants for a phase two sanitary sewer project and considering modular solutions for a new aid building. Other potential developments include a new fire department pumper truck and a bronze statue of Captain Huie at Huie Park, planned in time for the town’s 250th anniversary celebrations next year.

During the public portion of the meeting, a resident voiced concerns about noise pollution in the municipal lot on Shore Drive. The resident reported that a John Deere tractor’s backup alarm was exceeding state noise regulations, with recorded levels averaging 74.2 decibels and peaking at 90. The individual suggested that adjusting a knob on the tractor could lower the volume, thereby improving the quality of life for nearby residents. The council appeared receptive to these concerns and proposed obtaining the tractor’s model details to explore potential solutions.

The meeting also acknowledged the passing of two community members, Frederick “Fred” Catz and Wallace “Wally” Hartzgrove. Fred Catz was recognized for his longstanding contributions, including running Cats Confectionary for 60 years and serving in the U.S. Air Force during the Korean War. The council declared August 2, 2025, as a day of remembrance for him. Similarly, August 9, 2025, was designated in memory of Wally Hartzgrove, a dedicated member of the Highlands Fire Department and first aid squad.

In other developments, the council discussed ongoing projects, including progress in the Bay Avenue redevelopment on Bay, with all parties reportedly agreeing to aim for completion within the month. A prospective developer expressed interest in the Cove area, collaborating with the current owner to advance development. Emergency services reported their activities, with the state squad responding to 41 incidents, the fire department to 36, and the police department to 984. Code enforcement conducted various actions, including issuing summonses, warnings, and permits, alongside processing Open Public Records Act requests.

The meeting also covered infrastructure updates, confirming the completion of paving on Washington and Portland Avenues, with pedestrian safety improvements along Shore Drive completed on July 2. Plans were made to plant four trees on Central Avenue in the fall.

In the administrator’s report, insurance renewals were ongoing, and property appraisals were lower than anticipated. Efforts to implement multi-factor authentication for employees’ email access were initiated to enhance cybersecurity.