The council engaged in a discussion on the introduction of license plate readers in the town, an initiative designed to bolster local law enforcement’s ability to reduce vehicle-related crimes. Council members, including Al Ribeiro, voiced their support. Questions regarding the effectiveness of the system were raised by Councilmember Jay Ambelang, prompting a response from Al Ribeiro that the chief of police would provide relevant statistics at the subsequent meeting. The financial aspect of the proposal, specifically the costs associated with leasing the cameras, was also scrutinized.

The conversation then shifted to the topic of the property on Claremont Road. With a history of failed purchase attempts due to an oil tank on the premises, Councilmember Jeffrey Roos provided essential background, sparking debate over the property’s environmental implications and the “black cloud” of its past. Despite uncertainties concerning the oil tank removal, the council considered the merits of proceeding with the purchase, weighing it against potential environmental risks.

Supplementing these discussions, the council broached the subject of contracting a human resources representative to navigate the intricacies of pension and retirement matters at a rate of $150 per hour, not to exceed $3,000 for the first year. Mayor Mary Jane Canose and Al Ribeiro acknowledged the importance of this expertise given the complex nature of such issues.

The possibility of creating a broader network of license plate readers through collaboration with neighboring communities was also considered, which could significantly enhance the effectiveness of the crime prevention strategy.

The meeting addressed additional items such as the need to update the purchasing manual to reflect new state law mandates regarding bid and quote thresholds. The council also postponed the appointment of members to the mayor’s ad hoc committee for the Quinby project, which is tasked with determining the project’s direction and scope.

Further discussions included the potential acquisition of another property adjacent to an existing park. This site, described as having a narrow, poorly visible driveway, raised safety concerns regarding park access on Claremont Road. Council members debated the merits of the purchase, with input from the Recreation Committee and clarification on the use of Green Acres funds being identified as necessary follow-up actions.

The council moved on to address general business matters, such as the application for a stormwater grant to assist with MS4 permit costs and the review of bids for bulk rock salt, where the Somerset County Co-Op was identified as offering a more favorable price compared to the Morris County Co-Op. The hiring of True Green for property treatments was discussed, with specific concerns about the proximity of synthetic treatments to a stream and a recently planted native plants garden.

Legal proceedings and tax appeals concerning Parker McKay Jack were noted, emphasizing the need to address a pending case and its associated costs. The council also contemplated the appointment of a new fire company member, the approval for a tree recovery campaign, and a contract for traffic planning and design to develop a cohesive parking plan and address contradictory ordinances.

The topic of parking at the train station was also broached. The council members deliberated on the installation of parking meters and the adoption of the Park Mobile app for payments. Confusion over premature signage installation was clarified, and discussions on the sale of annual parking permits and the potential expansion of the meter system ensued.

The renewal of the recycling contract with the county, which had increased by 30 cents per household, was approved, and the annual stream cleanup effort was acknowledged, with appreciation for the volunteers’ commitment to the endeavor.

The council concluded its open session by addressing unfinished business, such as the Boand Terrace walkway project delays and coordination challenges for the Pavilion project with other utility work. New business included Harrington Construction’s request to use a gravel lot for dirt storage during water main work and a grant application for dam removal, which council members found particularly promising for environmental benefits.