The most notable development during the meeting was the unanimous approval of ordinance 2025-09, which allows the borough to exceed its municipal budget appropriation limits and establishes a cap bank for the year 2025. This decision, made without public comment, provides the council with the ability to manage unforeseen expenses while maintaining fiscal responsibility.

Equally important was the discussion surrounding ordinance 2025-10, which aims to amend existing legislation regarding the use of motorized and electric scooters and bikes in parks. The amendment seeks to prohibit these vehicles, with exceptions for those used by individuals with disabilities. The council deliberated on whether penalties for violations were sufficiently clear in the current ordinance. It was determined that while penalties were included, they required more precise language in the amendment. The council also recognized the need for proper signage in parks to inform the public about these regulations. Additionally, there was a suggestion to broaden the ordinance’s language to encompass various types of electric devices, which the council agreed to further explore.

The council’s attention then turned to ordinance 2025-11, a bond ordinance for various capital improvements, to be funded by grants. During the discussion, one member abstained from voting due to a conflict of interest related to their role as a firefighter.

In addition to ordinances, the council addressed several resolutions, including the rejection of all bids for the demolition of a former strip joint site. Resolution 181 was passed to ensure compliance with local public contract laws, acknowledging irregularities in the low bid received. The council decided to rebid the project.

Resolution 182 authorized a right of entry agreement for survey and exploration related to the Greenbrook Flood Control Project, a long-standing initiative dating back to 1973. The council emphasized the importance of informing residents about upcoming survey activities.

Another notable resolution involved plans to solicit bids for the sale of the borough’s wastewater system. The council clarified that this step is exploratory, aimed at gathering public input and ensuring transparency, without committing to any decisions at this point. This move highlights the council’s intention to explore potential improvements to the borough’s infrastructure while involving the community in the decision-making process.

In terms of community engagement, the council reports section highlighted several activities aimed at fostering local involvement. The successful execution of the annual Easter egg hunt on April 13th was a key event, drawing a large turnout of children and receiving support from local emergency services and high school volunteers. The upcoming opening day parade and ceremony on April 26th were also emphasized, featuring a volunteer picnic to encourage community participation.

Further community initiatives included the recreation department’s preparations for spring sports, such as youth softball and tennis, with ongoing registration for the latter. The council also noted the Department of Public Works’ ongoing maintenance efforts, including downtown and park cleanings, catch basin inspections, and municipal vehicle servicing. A significant challenge was the sewer lateral repair on Penfield Place, linked to a previous project by NJ American Water. The business administrator plans to meet with NJ American Water representatives to address necessary street repairs under the borough’s five-year moratorium on street re-paving.

During the public comments section, a resident raised concerns about debris left curbside, which hindered street sweeping efforts. The council acknowledged the issue and promised to address it through code enforcement actions.