34:56Centennial Hall’s preservation and enhancement was a primary focus of the meeting. The borough staff is currently awaiting a contract to commence various projects at the site, including educational, archival, and museum components. These initiatives aim to involve volunteers in field trips and other programs, supported by professional facilitators. The Historic Association proposed a landscape design and installation project at Centennial Hall, timed with the borough’s 250th-anniversary celebration. The council plans to reconvene to interview landscape architects, with the Historic Association expected to cover design costs, while the borough would manage planting expenses.

40:21A notable discussion point was the selection of paint colors for Centennial Hall. The building’s varied historical uses have led to different colors, prompting calls for a structured decision-making process. The council recognized its authority in this matter but acknowledged the need for professional guidance and public input. Suggestions were made to hire a preservation architect or expert to analyze the building’s historical paint colors. Establishing a clear process for color selection was deemed urgent, given the uncertain timeline for starting related work.

01:21:38The integration of design elements into an ongoing transit project was another topic. The council acknowledged the potential for further integration, emphasizing the importance of collaboration among professionals for future analysis. The meeting also featured an update on Fair Road, where an open house and grant application deadline were discussed. A motion was made to support a proposed waterfront park through a letter to the Monmouth County Park System, highlighting the park’s benefits to Fair Haven. The council unanimously supported this motion.

02:57In addition to Centennial Hall, the council addressed a proposal by Henry Demper to relocate the front door of his historic home at 28A Avenue. Demper sought guidance on moving his front door adjacent to a window and vice versa. The house, built in 1927, holds historical significance as a former fishing retreat. Demper offered to maintain or professionally restore the original door, depending on the commission’s preference. The commission supported the proposal, recognizing its benefits without altering the home’s character.

The meeting also included updates on various community projects. Improvements to Bicentennial Hall were discussed, with bid documents for enhancements like reinstalling doors and creating bicycle parking being reviewed. The council outlined the bid review process. Communication and public engagement were emphasized throughout the meeting, with a focus on transparency and collaboration.

25:58A discussion about the public status of a road related to Demper’s proposal arose, with the council clarifying its jurisdiction over modifications visible from the road. The council affirmed the need to follow proper procedures while respecting the neighborhood’s character. The meeting also touched on the historical context of local streets, with inquiries into River Road’s historical naming conventions prompting calls for further research.

01:10:31Other updates included the status of a new fire truck procurement process, with questions raised about the fire department’s outreach for cost information. An issue with a building on River Road, where work was done without exterior window grills, was noted and would be reported to authorities.