Highlands Borough Council Tackles $129M Flood Wall Project Concerns

Overview: The Highlands Borough Council recently convened to discuss the proposed US Army Corps of Engineers flood wall project, met with a mixture of concern and pressing questions from the community. The project, with an estimated construction cost of $129 million and additional project contracts totaling $535 million, has become a focal point for residents and council members alike due to its potential impact on the town’s landscape, infrastructure, and community life.

Highlands Council Tackles Municipal Budget and Infrastructure Concerns

Overview: The Highlands Borough Council meeting on May 1st, 2024, was marked by the adoption of the 2024 Municipal budget and engaging discussions on the town’s infrastructure projects and health insurance costs. The meeting also saw the introduction of an ordinance to amend brush and branch pickup regulations, aiming to improve equity for businesses and residents, and the council’s response to a resident’s call for better communication on sewer and drainage work.

Highlands Borough Council Tackles Sewer Project and Budget Concerns

Overview: The Highlands Borough Council addressed issues during their recent meeting, including a significant amendment to the sanitary sewer improvement project and discussions surrounding the municipal budget. The Council approved a bond ordinance to amend funding for the ongoing sewer project due to unforeseen infrastructure issues, while also engaging in extensive dialogue on the potential impact of debt service costs on future budgets. Additionally, the meeting covered the adoption of an ordinance to exceed the municipal budget appropriations limit and the establishment of a cap bank.

Highlands Council Focuses on Floodplain Management and Compliance

Overview: At the Highlands Borough Council meeting on April 3rd, 2024, the most pressing matter discussed was the floodplain management process, with a presentation emphasizing the importance of compliance with floodplain regulations to benefit from the Community Rating System (CRS). The CRS program’s potential to lower flood insurance costs for residents and enhance community resilience was a focal point. Efforts to correct errors in elevation certificates and to establish a robust process for floodplain property management were also topics. In addition, the council touched on the planning of the “Roaring on the Highlands” boat race event and heard concerns from a resident during the public portion regarding runoff water and erosion issues.

Highlands Borough Approves Key Ordinance, Addresses Community Concerns

Overview: In a recent meeting, the Highlands Borough Council passed key legislation, addressed a resident’s concerns about unpermitted plumbing work, and discussed various community initiatives including flood mitigation efforts and noise pollution. The council approved ordinance 0243 and introduced ordinance 0244, authorized essential vehicle purchases, accepted a generous donation for school programs, and discussed the need for an interim tree commissioner following a resignation.