The council’s discussion on infrastructure was intensive, with a focus on the NJ Department of Transportation’s yearly solicitation of grant applications for road improvements. The borough engineer provided a detailed report, which included a color-coded road map indicating the condition of the roads and highlighting areas in need of improvement. The engineer’s update included the progress of the DLS Paving on four streets and the Congressional Grant project for Second Avenue and Third Avenue. Of particular concern was the Flood Control Ordinance and the use of 2100 projected rainfall data for future developments.

Mayor Jen Blumenstock expressed gratitude for the borough engineer’s work and engagement with residents, especially in regards to the Center Street drainage investigation. The ongoing issues of drainage and road conditions were not only a subject of the engineer’s report but also a point of concern during the public comment segment of the meeting. Residents voiced apprehensions regarding the impact of construction on roadways, with specific mention of a persistent giant puddle.

The council also contemplated the introduction of ordinance 24-15, detailing the salary and wages of certain borough officials and employees, indicating a range of numbers with maximums, but not necessarily implying that maximum salaries would be awarded. This was coupled with discussions on the Bond ordinance 24-14, which sought to authorize the 2020 4 Road Improvement project, with a total cost of $678,000. A member of the public sought clarification on the temporary notes and their integration into the upcoming bonding.

Community events and recognition of public services formed a portion of the meeting. The Mayor reported on National Public Works week and EMS week, thanking the DPW, the first aid squad, and the police department for their dedication. She also highlighted the attendance at the 200 clubs Valor award ceremony, where three officers were commended for their valor. The council announced upcoming events, including CPR and AD awareness week and the unveiling of an all-weather, climate-controlled tamperproof enclosure and device at Hartman Park. Additionally, the council discussed the Garwood Rock Street Fair on June 2nd, the New Jersey primary election on June 4th, and the library’s summer reading program kicking off on June 10th.

Parking was another subject of discussion, with proposals for new marked parking spaces on South Avenue and West Street to address retail parking and pedestrian safety concerns. The timeline for the implementation of parking changes was slated for June 3rd.

The council also reviewed the work of the Public Works committee, including tasks such as cleaning up common areas, monthly fire extinguisher inspections, landscaping, and the installation of signs. Infrastructure grants and updates on the open space and recreation inventory also garnered attention. The Police committee’s proposal to add new parking spaces sparked further dialogue about the practical utilization of these areas and their impact on the community.

Other initiatives and events were highlighted, such as the Recreation Committee’s summer camp registration and adult soccer, the Garwood Partnership for Arts and Culture’s group art project for pride month, and the library’s upcoming author visit and annual bookmark contest.

Towards the meeting’s conclusion, the council entered an executive session to discuss personnel matters and matters of attorney-client privilege.