The primary topic of discussion during the Lake Como Borough Council meeting was the contentious Senate Resolution S 4736. The resolution, which has garnered significant media attention, proposes that religious and nonprofit organizations be permitted to develop affordable housing on their properties without following municipal guidelines. This provision is seen as analogous to the builder’s remedy, allowing developers to bypass local planning and zoning requirements if a municipality fails to meet its affordable housing obligations.

During the meeting, one council member articulated the potential implications of this resolution, expressing concern that nonprofits could acquire property and develop affordable housing outside the borough’s control. This could lead to developments in non-residential zones, disrupting the character and planning of the small borough. While the immediate impact on Lake Como might be minimal compared to larger municipalities, the council emphasized that the principle of local governance and land use control was at stake.

Questions arose regarding the motivations behind the Senate’s push for this resolution, with speculation about its timing during a “lame duck” session. Concerns were also raised about the possibility of nonprofits developing properties and later selling them without restrictions. One member stressed the need for “organization, and laws and guard rails,” suggesting that the current proposal lacked essential regulatory elements. The council considered drafting a resolution to formally reject the Senate’s proposal, using a sample resolution to articulate their concerns about undermining the municipality’s master plan and established development guidelines.

The council invited public comments on the resolution, but no residents came forward. Nonetheless, the council expressed urgency in passing a resolution, intending to act swiftly despite pending details regarding the drafting process. The meeting then transitioned into its regular session, where council members shared community updates and holiday plans.

Council members acknowledged the community’s participation in events like Small Business Saturday and the annual tree lighting ceremony, which one member described as a “hallmark moment.” The council expressed gratitude to those involved in organizing these events and highlighted upcoming holiday activities, including a giving tree initiative and a visit from Santa on a fire truck.

In other business, the council approved a special event application for the Cupid’s Chase 5K, which coincides with Valentine’s Day and aims to support individuals with disabilities in finding employment. Kevin Ryland, representing the event, anticipated a turnout of around 250 runners and clarified that while participants pay to run, there are no additional charges for entry to Bar A, which hosts the event.

The council also addressed several resolutions, including the certification of the annual audit. The audit for 2024 had been filed, with only one comment regarding inter-fund balances needing reconciliation by year-end. The council unanimously passed the audit certification resolution, along with a directed action plan status for the 2024 audit report and authorization for payments from various accounts totaling nearly $2 million.

Resolution 2025-143, opposing legislation S4736, was introduced and approved without opposition. The resolution emphasized the importance of local autonomy in land use planning and adherence to the borough’s master plan. Despite the opportunity for public comments, there were none, even from a member who traveled from Florida.