Fair Haven Borough Council Debates Eagle Scout Signs and Stormwater Regulations
- Meeting Overview:
The Fair Haven Borough Council meeting tackled a range of issues, from discussions on Eagle Scout project signage to updates on stormwater management regulations. The meeting, available both in person and on Zoom, allowed for public comment, although the agenda items proceeded with little public input.
A significant portion of the meeting was consumed by deliberations on the signage for Eagle Scout projects. Council members weighed in on standardizing the signs, which should include the project title, the Eagle Scout’s name, and the year. A proposal for the signs to also feature a one-sentence project description sparked debate. Some members supported the idea. However, others were concerned about the implications of overseeing content, with one council member firmly stating, “I don’t want to be in the business of policing content.” Ultimately, the council decided to adopt an 8×10-inch sign format without the additional description.
Furthermore, the discussion extended to the financial responsibility for these signs. It was suggested that scouts should fundraise for the signs as part of their projects. However, the council acknowledged the need to evaluate cost estimates for these signs to guide future decisions about potential funding support from the borough.
In another significant topic, the council addressed Ordinance 2025-9, which covers stormwater management regulations. One focus was on tree management related to stormwater applications. The council emphasized the importance of transparency by requiring applicants to list trees slated for removal. This was aimed at identifying potential issues early in the application process. The council also discussed the regulations’ flexibility regarding the placement of stormwater systems, particularly the standard 10-foot setback from structures and property lines. It was acknowledged that this requirement might not be feasible for all properties due to varying lot sizes in Fair Haven, necessitating a more flexible enforcement approach.
The council also moved on to other topics, including the amendment of the borough fee schedule under Ordinance 2025-17. The amendment sought to adjust various permit fees, with council members underscoring the importance of tracking administrative costs to ensure these are adequately covered. There was a consensus that while staff had been monitoring these costs, the proposed fees might not fully offset them, highlighting the need for ongoing evaluation.
In addition, the council discussed the rental policy for the community center. While fees were confirmed, protocols for usage remained to be established. The discussion revealed that organizations like the Boy Scouts had previously used the facility at no charge, prompting questions about current practices given the established $25 daily rental fee.
Towards the end of the meeting, a resident raised concerns about unfulfilled tree planting commitments by JCP&L. The resident expressed frustration over delays exceeding a year, calling for more accountability and a follow-up with the utility company to address unauthorized tree removals.
The meeting concluded with lighter topics, such as the announcement of a Halloween house decorating contest and reflections on the recent community center ribbon-cutting ceremony. The council expressed gratitude for community participation and the recreation department’s efforts in organizing these events. Additionally, a proposal was floated for a future oyster roast to support environmental initiatives, though concerns about health regulations for consuming local oysters were highlighted.
Josh Halpern
City Council Officials:
Elizabeth Koch (Council President), Tracy Cole (Councilwoman), Michal DiMiceli (Councilwoman), Kristen Hoey (Councilwoman), Andrew “Drew” LaBarbera (Councilman), Brian Olson (Councilman)
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Meeting Type:
City Council
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Committee:
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Meeting Date:
10/27/2025
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Recording Published:
10/28/2025
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Duration:
43 Minutes
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Notability Score:
Routine
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State:
New Jersey
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County:
Monmouth County
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Towns:
Fair Haven
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