08:59The most prominent topic was the introduction of a volunteer firefighter incentive program aimed at addressing recruitment challenges in the Buena Fire Department. A detailed presentation by a fire consultant highlighted the program’s components, which include a pay-per-call system and the establishment of a standby crew. This crew, consisting of an officer, a driver, and two firefighters, is expected to be available from Monday to Friday, 6:00 am to 6:00 pm.

15:22The consultant presented the financial framework, explaining that the program would be funded through an already budgeted allocation. The budget, developed with input from previous call data, is designed to be financially sustainable, with quarterly evaluations planned to address any budgetary discrepancies. The finance director assured that thorough research had been conducted to maintain financial viability while enhancing service levels to the community.

19:25The meeting also introduced an ordinance to amend Chapter 18, Article One of the borough’s code to accommodate the new incentive program for the fire department. The ordinance was introduced with unanimous support. The discussion also touched on strategies for attracting younger volunteers, with suggestions to leverage advertising and social media.

24:03Another focal point of the meeting was the progress of a $3 million infrastructure initiative. This joint project with the Buena Borough Municipal Utilities Authority (BBMUA) plans to address sanitary sewer and roadway construction, funded through the New Jersey Infrastructure Bank and other sources. Construction for the sanitary component is set to begin in September 2025, with completion expected by spring 2026.

Updates were provided on several county projects, including lighting upgrades and repaving plans for the Middle Estates area and the status of Brewster Road’s drainage improvements, which are nearing the bidding phase. Additionally, efforts to secure funding through the Fire Management Assistance Grant Program for a recent brush fire response were discussed, potentially offering financial relief for the borough.

The meeting also addressed property-related issues, particularly the sale of a borough-owned property adjacent to the Methodist Church on Central Avenue. A resident requested further discussion about acquiring the property, emphasizing that it is not a right-of-way and should be sold at fair market value. The process to authorize the sale involves advertising, accepting bids, and conducting a title search to confirm ownership and address any liens. The importance of a structured acquisition process, despite the absence of the borough’s lawyer, was highlighted.

36:37Public comments also raised questions about the borough’s waste management plans, specifically regarding large rollout trash containers. The borough is considering partnerships with Atlantic County to implement this initiative in the next budget cycle, with costs covered by the borough rather than homeowners. Community engagement was further illustrated by a resident’s appreciation for a local baseball coaches’ event supporting a neighbor’s family, despite adverse weather.

40:06The meeting concluded with the adoption of the consent agenda, which included various resolutions such as the certification of the annual audit, the hiring of an emergency medical technician, and grant applications for road resurfacing projects. Discussions on new business initiatives underscored the need for economic growth and collaboration among the council, land use board, and Municipal Utilities Authority to attract businesses and alleviate tax burdens on residents.