The proclamation honoring Patricia Andelure was a key highlight of the meeting. Recognized for her years of service as a borough clerk, treasurer, and council member, Andelure was celebrated for her dedication to public service and community involvement, including her roles in the Spanish Community Center and the Salvation Army. The mayor shared personal anecdotes about Andelure, emphasizing her integrity and compassion. Assemblyman Dan Hutchinson and Cody Miller also praised her leadership, emphasizing her role in navigating local government complexities. The audience applauded as Andelure expressed gratitude, appreciating the support from her family and residents.

The meeting also addressed several financial and infrastructural issues. A significant topic was the fiscal health of the Joint Insurance Fund (JIF), with representatives discussing a $13 million surplus and $48 million in cash reserves. They noted the fund’s historical success, returning over $55 million to members since its inception. Discussions included the challenges of rising reinsurance costs and the fund’s competitive edge over private insurance options. Council members expressed satisfaction with the JIF, citing its long-standing performance and financial benefits.

Workers’ compensation costs were another concern, with rising medical expenses and a 30% increase in state health benefits impacting budgets. Efforts to manage these costs included transitional duty programs for injured employees, which reportedly saved nearly $1 million by shortening claim durations. A wellness program was also introduced to address co-morbidities among employees.

On the public safety front, the meeting highlighted the police department’s activities, including 1,004 calls for service and 24 arrests in July. The department’s efforts included a “Stay Sober Block” initiative, resulting in a DWI arrest. Officer Mason Tessier was recognized for his outstanding performance, with 121 motor vehicle stops and 12 criminal warrant arrests. Additionally, the EMS responded to 97 calls, including a mass casualty response to a small plane crash.

Infrastructure projects also featured prominently in the discussions. The mayor reported on a $3 million forgivable loan from the IBank for utility work along West Avenue, with construction expected to last eight months. The meeting addressed ongoing projects, including a landfill closure initiative incorporating solar energy, and a concept development phase for a flooding project off Route 40, with completion anticipated by 2028.

The meeting also encompassed discussions on Ordinance 772, which clarified the schedule for volunteer firefighter standby duties. The ordinance, aimed at defining the duty schedule explicitly, was unanimously approved after public hearing. Other ordinances introduced included amendments to municipal wages, local noise regulations, and property maintenance standards.

The commissioners emphasized fiscal prudence, particularly regarding budget management. With approximately 60% of the 2025 budget utilized by July’s end, caution was urged in spending, especially in legal expenditures related to foreclosures. The finance committee’s ongoing oversight was highlighted, with efforts to manage outstanding balances and delinquent accounts showing progress.