A considerable portion of the meeting was dedicated to a public hearing on Ordinance 1790, which proposed amendments to Chapter 24 of the municipal code concerning the borough’s energy aggregation program. These amendments were suggested by a consultant to improve competitiveness during the bidding process. A local resident, Wayne Rossy, voiced optimism that the proposed changes would advance renewable energy initiatives within the borough. Rossy underscored the importance of collaborating with the school district to bolster renewable energy resources, specifically suggesting the installation of solar panels on municipal buildings. The council acknowledged these suggestions as part of ongoing discussions about sustainable energy options for residents, despite current challenges related to the economic viability of such programs.

Another item on the agenda was Ordinance 1795, which involved a long-term tax agreement for a redevelopment project on a former church site. This project aims to develop 25-26 apartments, with a commitment to include four deed-restricted affordable units. The ordinance outlines a 30-year Payment in Lieu of Taxes (PILOT) program offering a tax discount to the developer, a topic that sparked public interest during the meeting. Resident Kate Delany questioned the necessity of the 15% tax abatement for the project, expressing skepticism about the justifications provided. The council emphasized that the project’s challenges justified the tax incentive, which also aimed to stimulate local job creation.

In addressing Ordinance 1792, the council discussed appropriating $550,000 for acquiring and rehabilitating two derelict properties, including a problematic gas station at Haden and Brown Roads. The council explored potential state funding for site cleanup and considered obtaining the property through tax foreclosure to address long-standing environmental and community concerns.

The meeting also touched on Ordinance 1794, which detailed a tax exemption agreement for a self-storage facility on White Horse Pike. This ordinance proposed a five-year abatement plan, allowing the business to systematically increase its tax payments over time. Such measures are intended to foster economic development while gradually integrating businesses into the borough’s tax base.

Residents addressed several other issues during the public comment portion of the meeting. David Taylor, a resident, expressed concerns over the prolonged closure of the playground at Roberts Pool, particularly its impact on families with young children. The council acknowledged the logistical challenges in keeping the playground open year-round due to its association with the pool but assured Taylor that a comprehensive recreation plan was being developed to improve playground accessibility.

Another resident inquired about the reassessment of housing values, to which the council responded that notices would be sent to property owners by the end of the month. These letters would provide new property value estimates and tax implications, and residents were encouraged to schedule informal meetings if they had concerns about the assessments.

A resident highlighted the successful implementation of a roof garden on the public safety building that adhered to LEED specifications and advocated for more solar energy installations in the borough. The council acknowledged the suggestion and discussed the potential for leveraging state funding for solar projects on school buildings.

The council also addressed inquiries about the water tower project on Water Tower, noting that discussions were ongoing to balance affordable housing obligations with the project’s overall feasibility.

In concluding remarks, the council reiterated the ongoing fire ban due to recent weather conditions and encouraged residents to report any signs of fire danger.