During the meeting, an amount of time was devoted to a debate on the food truck ordinance. The council expressed concerns over the existing fees for food truck permits, with suggestions that these fees should be revised to be more in line with the taxes paid by permanent businesses. There was consensus on the need to reevaluate and potentially increase the fees, with a plan to address this issue before the next council meeting.

Another topic that garnered considerable discussion was the resolution related to donations for the historic committee. The terminology used to describe the donations sparked a debate, leading to an amendment of the resolution to ensure that the term “historic preservation commission” was used accurately.

The introduction of two ordinances also took center stage, with one pertaining to privately owned salt storage and the other concerning stormwater management. These ordinances were brought forth to ensure compliance with the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) regulations. The council clarified that while existing developments would be grandfathered in, civil engineers were informed of the upcoming changes to remain compliant.

The council also provided updates on various ongoing projects. The mayor announced the receipt of a $1.425 million grant from FEA HUD VI for Academy Street and discussed the progress of a parking committee and the introduction of a tree ordinance mandated by the state. The fire marshal informed the council of the retirement of the multi-family home inspector, which presented a challenge for future inspections. Additionally, the borough’s specialist discussed funding for PFOS and lead and galvanized service lines.

Community events and the involvement of local residents in civic activities were another focal point. The Shade Tree Committee announced an Arbor Day tree planting and an event to dedicate Holly trees to Miss Edna Petrick. A successful stream cleanup at the old Aman headquarters was highlighted, with thanks extended to the Department of Public Works for their support. The council president reported on upcoming shade tree events, and a councilwoman expressed gratitude for the community’s involvement in tidying up Kuran Park.

Public safety and community services were acknowledged, with the police chief commended for his role in a mental health issue where an officer helped a person in need. Emphasis on the importance of community policing led to plans to have the officer attend the next meeting to discuss related letters. The council also reviewed the planning board’s recent approvals, including a privately owned daycare center and a home health care facility, and discussed the conversion of a building into apartments. Questions arose about the benefits for borough residents and parking requirements for the new apartments.

The meeting also touched on the positive feedback from the recent sipping stroll event despite cold temperatures and plans to engage Latin businesses for an extended Cinco De Mayo celebration. Interest in the townwide yard sale and the return of the Teen Arts Festival was noted, with a call for community involvement to support local businesses.

On a more administrative note, the council addressed the issue of a redevelopment area that did not qualify for a long-term tax exemption, sparking debate on how to approach tax considerations for redevelopers. The Department of Public Works raised concerns about waste fees and recycling costs and their impact on taxpayers. A public hearing on the budget was held, with amendments made to address state-required changes, and a resolution was passed authorizing a water preservation agreement with BD HES at the Spice Factory.