One notable matter involved the council’s consideration of a bond ordinance to fund affordable housing developments. The ordinance proposed appropriating $2.7 million and authorizing $2.57 million in bonds. This decision followed the council’s earlier choice to commit to 100% affordable developments, thereby avoiding the construction of approximately 300 new apartments by creating 16 affordable units instead. However, the project’s anticipated cost increased from the initial $1.94 million due to inflation and unforeseen site conditions, including necessary demolition. This shortfall had been negotiated from $5 million to $2.6 million through various measures, including changes to construction materials and targeted demolition.

The demolition process was a focal point of the discussion, with concerns over its impact addressed in detail. The process would involve blasting to remove rock and clear soil, adhering to strict regulations to minimize disturbance. The council agreed to notify residents within a 200-foot radius before blasting. The session highlighted the efforts to reduce the financial burden of the affordable housing project, with acknowledgments of the collaborative work between council members and developer RPM to arrive at a more manageable figure. The financial implications of the reduced bond amount were significant, particularly concerning the borough’s budget.

Another topic was the proposed amendments to the ordinance governing qualifications for the police chief position. The council discussed reducing the requirement for supervisory experience from ten years to five years. Additionally, the mayor’s appointment of the chief, requiring council consent, necessitated a revision in the ordinance. It was suggested to make the requirement for graduation from an advanced leadership class preferred rather than mandatory, aligning with a more practical approach. The discussion also touched on removing an existing line indicating that qualified candidates must come from within the department, as this is already dictated by state law. These amendments aimed to clarify the language around qualifications for the rank of chief of police.

In terms of community recognition, two notable presentations were made. The first honored Rosena Nina Dixon for her efforts in providing affordable housing in the borough. Dixon was commended for purchasing and rehabilitating a property to serve as affordable housing units, enabling two families to purchase homes in the area. She expressed gratitude for the support received from council members and organizations, crediting her motivation to the book “The Color of Law” by Richard Rothstein. The second presentation recognized CJ Kirst, a local athlete who had recently tied an NCAA scoring record. The council discussed the possibility of formally acknowledging his achievements at a future date.

During the public comment session, a local librarian announced the summer reading kickoff and a summer lunch program sponsored by the Friends of the Library. Another resident expressed appreciation for the mayor’s fundraising efforts for the New Jersey Highlands and urged the council to prioritize an ordinance for membership in the preservation aspect of the Highlands, given the approaching deadline for the affordable housing plan.

The meeting also included updates on various community events and initiatives. The administrator reported on the opening of the farmers market, with the return of popular vendors and plans to recruit new ones. A proposal was discussed to reallocate a grant for a sidewalk project on B Avenue to a more urgent repair at the train station, emphasizing pedestrian safety. The mayor expressed enthusiasm for participating in the Mayor’s Challenge event and gratitude for the successful Memorial Day event, which saw a record turnout.

Additionally, the council addressed a previously planned project at the intersection of Mound and Claremont, stalled awaiting county approval. The mayor had spoken with a county commissioner during a conference to push for progress. The session concluded with a motion for an executive session to discuss personnel matters.