01:24The meeting began with a proclamation celebrating Juneteenth, presented by a guidance counselor from Dunellen High School. This proclamation emphasized the historical significance of Juneteenth, marking the day when news of the Emancipation Proclamation reached the South on June 19, 1865. Mayor Jason F. Cilento and the council declared June 19th a borough holiday, urging citizens and businesses to celebrate this important date.

05:32Following the proclamation, the council moved to adopt ordinance 2025-12, which introduced a municipal flag lowering policy. This ordinance, discussed in previous meetings, saw no public comment before its unanimous adoption. It outlines the circumstances under which flags may be lowered as a gesture of respect or mourning.

07:50The council addressed multiple resolutions, including the approval of bills and the appointment of Michael Schmidt as an associate member of the Dunellen Fire Company. The need for more volunteers in the fire department and rescue squad was highlighted, with Council Member Trina Rios abstaining from the vote due to her position within the fire department. Another resolution authorized CME to undertake additional engineering services for the Washington Avenue beautification project, funded by an NJ DOT transit village grant.

34:35The council also engaged in discussions about various infrastructure improvements. CME Associates provided updates on fiscal year 2026 local aid grants. The Department of Public Works reported on the progress of Phase One of the NJ DOT project on Second Street, currently 75% complete, with further work contingent on weather conditions. Additionally, ongoing water service projects on South Avenue and Whittier Avenue were nearing completion, with a focus on timely contractor communications with residents.

41:06Public safety and traffic concerns were raised during the meeting. A resident from Denellan Avenue expressed worries about frequent stop sign violations and proposed the installation of flashing stop signs. The council discussed conducting a comprehensive speed study and considered implementing a 25 mph speed limit and rumble strips to improve traffic safety. Concerns about parking related to new developments on Pelosi Street were also mentioned, prompting the council to review NJ DOT approvals for parking regulations.

18:20The Dunellen Public Library announced the completion of repairs in collaboration with NJ American Water, along with upcoming events such as a juggling and storytime workshop and a home seller workshop. The library’s summer reading program continues, offering prizes to children who participate. Additionally, the “Music in the Park” series and the unveiling of a mural on Madison Avenue were highlighted as upcoming community events.

Council members provided reports on various initiatives, including the relocation of the construction office within Borough Hall and updates on emergency preparedness efforts by the Office of Emergency Management. Recruitment for emergency response training saw 38 individuals express interest.