51:27The most discussed issue at the meeting was the maintenance and proposed upgrade of street lamps along North Avenue. Residents voiced their frustrations about numerous non-functional street lamps, citing safety and aesthetic concerns. A resident named Michael Alope highlighted the problem, stating that at least 30 decorative street lamps were out of order. He questioned why the lights could not be kept operational, to which the council members responded by explaining that they are dependent on PSNG, the entity responsible for maintenance. The council acknowledged the need for improvements and announced ongoing negotiations to replace outdated lamps with efficient LED alternatives. This change aims to enhance reliability and reduce energy consumption. Another resident shared similar concerns, mentioning their efforts in reporting the outages and the bureaucratic hurdles encountered in getting the lights fixed. Council members encouraged community members to continue reporting outages to both PSNG and the borough to ensure comprehensive tracking and resolution of the issues.

08:56Alongside infrastructure discussions, the council introduced Ordinance 2024-25, focusing on traffic regulations. This ordinance proposed restricted parking on parts of Klein Place near Columbia Park due to accessibility issues. This measure seeks to improve traffic flow and safety in the area.

Further, the council introduced Ordinance 2024-26, which amended the compensation rates for police officers on special duty assignments to align with neighboring towns. This adjustment is part of the council’s efforts to ensure competitive compensation for law enforcement personnel, and it passed unanimously without public comment.

14:55The meeting also featured discussions on upcoming community events. The Friends of the Denan Public Library announced a fundraiser, and the Denan American Legion is scheduled to host a car show, among other events. The council emphasized the importance of these activities in fostering community spirit and engagement. Plans for a “Founders Day” event set for October 27, 2024, were also detailed. The event will coincide with the annual Halloween parade and include performances, vendors, and children’s activities. Kelly Cedar, the Recreation Coordinator, was praised for her efforts in organizing this event, which aims to celebrate the borough’s heritage and enhance community involvement.

50:11The library also proposed a “Walk and Roll” event to encourage Somerset County residents to register for library cards at the Dunellen Public Library. This initiative aims to increase access to library resources and promote literacy. The council discussed logistical aspects, such as street closures and the involvement of local police and fire departments, to ensure the event’s success.

27:54Additionally, the council addressed various ongoing projects and community services updates. The Department of Public Works has been maintaining cleanliness in the downtown area and parks, and preparations for tree installations are underway. The Klein Place DOT project is progressing, with paving expected to conclude soon. The council also discussed the installation of new trees downtown as part of an improvement project, featuring a mix of native and decorative species, as well as Comcast’s plans to begin underground work for fiber installation, which is anticipated to provide competition for existing service providers by 2026.

33:50Community safety and compliance were other focal points, especially concerning park use. A ceremony honoring Sydney McLin is scheduled for September 23 at Columbia Park, with specific instructions for parking and access. Emphasizing dusk-to-dawn regulations and appropriate scheduling for league activities, the council reiterated the importance of responsible use of public facilities to ensure safety and order.