Highland Park Council Addresses Community Concerns, Adopts Budget

Overview: The Highland Park Borough Council meeting was marked by the adoption of the 2024 Main Street budget and the address of several community concerns, including road repair scheduling, stormwater management, and the maintenance of parks. Additionally, the council moved to confirm appointments to the Arts Commission and the Community Emergency Response Team.

Highland Park Council Addresses Redevelopment and Honors Late Judge Hopman

Overview: The Highland Park Borough Council meeting addressed several topics, with a primary focus on the redevelopment of track A and the honoring of the late Judge Barney Hopman. The council paid tribute to Judge Hopman’s legacy, acknowledged May 2024 as Mental Health Awareness Month, and discussed upcoming community events and public works projects.

Highland Park Council Addresses Grocery Store Tax Concerns, 2024 Budget

Overview: The Highland Park Borough Council meeting addressed financial matters concerning the community, including the tax implications of a new Super Fresh grocery store and the introduction of the 2024 municipal budget. Residents voiced skepticism over the financial analysis of the grocery store’s tax agreement and the proposed property tax increase, while the council proceeded to approve important budgetary and municipal resolutions.

Highland Park Debates Super Fresh Supermarket Development

Overview: The Highland Park Borough Council meeting sparked discussion over the proposed development of a Super Fresh supermarket, revealing concerns about the developer’s past financial settlement and the terms of a potential long-term tax exemption. Community members and council representatives debated the implications of the development plan, the accuracy of information shared about the project’s history, and the due diligence in selecting the supermarket developer.

Highland Park Faces Increased Property Taxes and Utility Rates

Overview: The Highland Park Borough Council meeting highlighted pressing budgetary concerns, including a proposed property tax increase and a 10% rise in water utility charges. Detailed discussions also focused on the budget’s impact on public safety, public works, and the general administration, with a portion of the budget allocated to these areas. The mayor provided an overview of the fiscal plan, noting an estimated 3% increase in the average property tax bill and a $1.5 million hike in the amount to be raised by taxes. The budgetary challenges are compounded by a decrease in the total assessed value of the borough and higher costs for purchasing water, which the council is addressing by utilizing surplus funds and considering rate increases.