The meeting’s most discussion centered around the 2023 audit report presented by Mr. Swisser from S Cloan Company. He outlined the borough’s financial status, indicating both audit opinions issued were clean, which means there were no findings concerning internal controls and compliance with laws and regulations. The borough started the year with a surplus of approximately $8,048,000, used $3,131,000 to balance the budget, and regenerated $3,093,000, leading to a slight decrease in surplus to $8,010,000. Mr. Swisser commended the borough for its fiscal soundness, stating, “you guys are very fiscally sound,” and personally ranked Hawthorne as “number one” in his book.

During the audit discussion, a council member raised concerns regarding the condition of Lafayette Avenue, specifically addressing the issue of weeds growing through pavers in front of residents’ homes. The council member suggested that the borough administration might consider a more lenient approach before issuing notices to homeowners about the weeds. Reflecting on past experiences, they emphasized the importance of fair and considerate communication with residents.

Another council member contributed by mentioning a news report on the environmental impact of certain pesticides and proposing alternatives such as vinegar and baking soda for weed control. They highlighted the importance of council members tending to their respective wards to manage such issues effectively.

The council also discussed updates related to recycling efforts. Since the beginning of the polystyrene recycling collection on May 15, the borough successfully collected 399 pounds of material. The recycling center is now open seven days a week, although there will be no collection in October due to a permanent arrangement with Clifton for processing these materials.

Mayor John V. Lane presented the administrative agenda, highlighting recent interactions with New Jersey Transit aimed at improving the condition of the local train station. These efforts include cleaning and enhancing lighting. He also mentioned the upcoming National Night Out event on August 6, which will feature local police, firefighters, EMTs, and various entertainment activities.

The meeting featured a brief discussion about local achievements, notably the recognition of a new restaurant on Lincoln Avenue. This establishment was named one of the top 40 restaurants in New Jersey by New Jersey Monthly. Attorney Michael Pasqua acknowledged this accomplishment and shared a positive personal dining experience.

Pasqua also provided updates on ongoing legal matters, including a local property dispute. He noted that tickets had been prepared against an individual for violations dating back to 2022, and he anticipated further legal proceedings regarding a challenge to the borough’s redevelopment plan concerning the Nexus Plastics site.

Several upcoming events were announced, including concerts and performances scheduled for the following weeks. Among these was an upcoming movie event featuring “The Lego Movie 2” on August 25th. The Municipal Alliance has partnered to create a Lego building area for children before the screening, which will include giveaways and various fun activities. Mayor Lane highlighted the success of the band show season, mentioning that total donations amounted to $23,700 this year, largely due to a grant from NPP and contributions from local businesses. He thanked the Department of Public Works (DPW) and the police for their collaboration.

The borough’s engineer provided updates on various infrastructure projects. The second phase of the galvanized water service line replacement is currently underway on Florence Avenue, with work set to begin on Warburg Avenue soon, depending on weather conditions. A change order for the installation of water mains on Florence Avenue between Ethel and 4th Avenue has been submitted for approval. The final closeout of the Water Department’s PFC treatment system is in progress, with materials delays pushing the construction of the Franklin Field bleacher improvements to winter to avoid interfering with the football season. The council was informed that the award of the construction contract is planned for the evening under resolution 11024.

The borough administrator acknowledged the efforts of Lorie Foley and staff for achieving a clean audit report. The NPP committee has been active, with a well-received presentation on the NPP facade program aimed at business and property owners on Diamond Bridge Avenue. The administrator noted the council’s endorsement for a funding source change for the planner’s services on this program, necessary to utilize remaining 2023 grant funds effectively.

The administrator mentioned that remaining funds from the Franklin Field bleacher project would allow for the completion of the roller hockey project. However, any further recreational projects would require new grants or local appropriations. The council was also informed about the final steps needed for the water service line phase three inspection contract, crucial for bidding on that project, slated for the fall. A correction regarding a single sidewalk assessment from the 2021 Road Program was also discussed.

A council member raised a question about the Board of Education’s parking spaces in the municipal lot, prompting a brief discussion about converting those spaces for municipal staff use. The conversation shifted to logistical aspects of the band shows, emphasizing the enjoyable atmosphere created by the events. Further inquiries were made regarding the timeline of the service line replacement program, with the engineer confirming that the project is scheduled to be completed in phases over the next several years, specifically mentioning the requirement to complete ten phases.

Another council member thanked the staff for coordinating a fundraiser coinciding with an upcoming event featuring ESPN and a softball game. The timing of the game was noted to depend on the arrival of a key figure associated with it. The meeting also included updates on applications before the planning board, including expansions for local businesses and the arrival of a new Wing Stop location.