Hillsdale Borough Council Reorganizes with New Mayor, Police Chief, and Council President Amid Bylaw Amendments

Overview: Hillsdale Borough Council witnessed a reorganization with Michael Shinfield sworn in as the new mayor and Sean Smith as the new police chief. During the same meeting, Councilman John Escobar was elected as the council president, and the council debated and passed contentious bylaw amendments, particularly reinstating the mayor’s ex officio status on committees. Additionally, the council approved appointments to various committees and addressed ethical concerns during public comments.

Hillsdale Borough Council Approves Shared Service Agreement, Achieves Significant Savings

Overview: In a recent Hillsdale Borough Council meeting, a shared service agreement was approved with Westwood for municipal court services, potentially saving Hillsdale approximately $70,000 annually. The meeting also saw the introduction of an ordinance amending the borough code and acknowledged the contributions of departing council members Anthony DeRosa and Zoltan Horvath.

Hillsdale Borough Council Discusses Turf Field Controversy, Ambulance Services, and Council Meeting Frequency

Overview: In a recent Hillsdale Borough Council meeting, issues such as the controversy over synthetic turf fields, the division of service calls by the Hillsdale Volunteer Ambulance Corps (HVAC), and the frequency of council meetings were discussed. The meeting saw involvement from all members of the City Council, including Justin Fox, Janetta Trochimiuk, Anthony DeRosa, Zoltan Horvath, Abby Lundy, John Escobar, and Mayor John Ruocco.

Hillsdale Planning Board Tries to Balance Patio Expansions and Green Space

Overview: In a recent meeting of the Hillsdale Borough Planning Board, the community witnessed a lively discussion around impervious coverage limitations, revealing the balance between maintaining green space and accommodating residents’ desires for property development.

Mayor and Council Clash Over Field Committee Reconstitution, Elevate New Acting Police Chief

Overview: In a contentious Hillsdale Borough Council meeting held on September 12, council members and Mayor John Ruocco engaged in a debate over the reorganization of the field committee, initially formed in January. The discord emerged from Mayor Ruocco’s proposal to revamp the committee to include himself, replacing Councilman John Escobar.