Milltown Council Divided Over Flag Display Ordinance Amidst Community Concerns

Overview: During the Milltown Borough Council meeting held on August 19, 2024, the council addressed several issues, notably the contentious flag display ordinance and community concerns about public safety and local events.

Milltown Approves New Flag Policy Amidst Varied Concerns

Overview: The recent Milltown Borough Council meeting took a turn with the approval of a contested flag policy, Ordinance 24548, which aims to regulate flags displayed at borough-owned buildings. This decision came after a debate over inclusivity and representation. Despite the policy’s approval on first reading, some council members voiced reservations and a need for further clarification.

Milltown Grapples with Water Rates and Infrastructure Challenges

Overview: In a recent Milltown Borough Council meeting, members and residents discussed a issue facing the borough: the significant cost and logistical challenges of replacing service lines in the town’s aging water system. The estimated cost for this project is approximately $8.5 million, with residents potentially facing nearly $10,000 on average for a service line replacement directly paid to the utility. The council debated the financial responsibility for these costs amid concerns of a projected $650 annual increase in utility bills for each account to address a utility budget shortfall of approximately $1.6 million per year.

Milltown Council Grapples with Water Rate Hike and Development Concerns

Overview: In a recent meeting, the Milltown Borough Council faced a barrage of concerns from residents regarding a proposed 90% increase in water rates and contentious development plans. The meeting was dominated by discussions on the financial impact of the rate hike, particularly on senior citizens and single payers, and the implications of property development on the community’s character and infrastructure.

Milltown Considers Historical Preservation Commission Amidst Infrastructure Concerns

Overview: At the latest Milltown Borough Council meeting, a portion of the discussion revolved around the potential establishment of a historical preservation commission. This topic was brought to the forefront by a presentation from the Milltown Historic Preservation Committee, which underscored the missed opportunities resulting from the absence of such a commission, notably the demolition of certain buildings and the consequent loss of tax revenue. The committee’s presentation, spearheaded by Randy Ruth, emphasized the potential benefits of establishing a commission, including increased property values, tax incentives, technical assistance, and access to grants and funding for historic preservation. It sparked a thorough debate among the council and the community members present, regarding the implications for property rights and the criteria for designating historical properties.