Highlands Borough Council Advances Sanitary Sewer Project Despite Challenges

Overview: The Highlands Borough Council addressed several matters in their recent meeting, with the sanitary sewer project taking center stage due to its complexity and the collaboration required with New Jersey American Water and the county to resolve conflicts with the water main. The council also enacted ordinance 02407, enhancing local environmental practices, and introduced new ordinances to amend health and stormwater management codes. Furthermore, the council approved resolutions, including one for a non-fair and open contract for beach sifting, appointed a Deputy Emergency Management coordinator, and authorized the payment of bills. Additionally, the replacement of bulkheads on Bay Avenue and a potential referendum on the Army Corps of Engineer project were discussed.

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.