A contentious topic emerged during the public comment period when Alberta Rios, a resident from Washington Road, vehemently opposed the proposed development of 250 apartments on 40 acres of land behind Kennedy Park. Rios, representing a portion of the community, presented hundreds of signatures from residents advocating for the preservation of the land as open space. She stressed the park’s importance as a communal hub for gatherings and its role in fostering intergenerational connections. Rios urged transparency from the borough and called for a referendum to let voters decide on the land’s future use, a proposal previously dismissed by the council. She concluded her remarks by thanking the council for supporting the Diwali Festival, seeking continued unity in preserving vital community spaces.

Following Rios, resident Jim Robinson challenged the borough’s handling of the land issue, questioning the mayor’s efforts to preserve it. Robinson accused the mayor of inconsistency, citing past opposition to purchasing open spaces and stating that the mayor had not succeeded in acquiring any open land for preservation. He pointed to communication from the landowner, Peter MCO, who declared no intentions to sell the property, further muddying the borough’s stated intentions.

In response, the mayor explained the inclusion of the privately owned land in the borough’s Fair Share Housing Plan as a compliance measure with state requirements, emphasizing the lack of current development plans. He reassured residents that any future development would focus on age-restricted housing with affordable components. The mayor also addressed rumors about using eminent domain.

The meeting also featured community recognitions. Sue Paul was honored for her 40 years of service on the library board of trustees. Her contributions included leading the board as president, assisting in creating a Memorial Garden, and supporting the local food bank. Paul expressed gratitude for the recognition and credited her fellow trustees and the library director for their collective success.

The Festival of Lights Committee received accolades for their successful event, which involved over 70 vendors and numerous volunteers. The committee chair thanked the borough, sponsors like Amboy Bank and Patel Brothers, and the recreation department staff for their support. This recognition highlighted the community’s collaborative effort in organizing such a large-scale event.

The Cultural Arts Commission was acknowledged for a successful year of events, including the “Tunes with Mora” series and a Halloween event. A member of the commission, Nancy, shared a personal connection to the community and reflected on her late father’s contributions, expressing joy at the community spirit demonstrated in recent events.

In other discussions, Councilman Sinarski provided updates on water and sewer issues, noting a reduction in water consumption attributed to decreased lawn watering during a drought. He urged continued conservation efforts. Sinarski also praised the police department for their effective traffic management during a power outage affecting local schools.

The council also addressed the handling of asbestos in an older building. This discussion was prompted by a council member sharing a story about a restaurant owner who died from asbestosis, emphasizing the dangers of improper handling.

During the public comment segment, residents voiced various concerns. Bob Duffy thanked council members for resolving a neighborhood issue, while Mr. Kazinski Glenn sought assistance with an ambulance bill he believed was erroneously issued. Meanwhile, Bob Eaggan questioned the handling of resolutions and referendums, particularly regarding a historical building’s restoration.

The council clarified that the building would serve as office space while preserving its historical exterior. Frank Xeno, president of the Historical Society, expressed satisfaction with the renovations but sought more communication on the building’s future use. He acknowledged the council’s efforts while advocating for historical preservation.