The appointment of Evan J. Goov as a police officer was a key moment, as it represents a crucial addition to the borough’s law enforcement team. Alongside Goov, the council appointed Susan Guy and Laura Macowski to the Board of Health.

Residents brought forth several issues related to infrastructure projects, notably expressing frustration with the sidewalk and driveway repair assessments. Discrepancies in square yardage calculations and bills for work not authorized or expected were among the concerns. The council acknowledged the need to improve communication and ensure residents are adequately informed about the scope and cost of such projects in the future.

The public’s concerns extended to the handling of curbing replacements and driveway work, with residents questioning the responsibility for costs and the quality of workmanship. One resident was particularly upset about having to pay $600 to replace a driveway section that did not meet expectations, calling for better future specifications. The confusion about special assessments for the 2021 Road program was also a point of discussion, as a new homeowner sought clarification on the process and reimbursement possibilities.

Environmental issues were also on the agenda, with the council announcing new regulations from the United States Environmental Protection Agency concerning certain chemicals. Water testing results showed non-detectable levels of these chemicals in the water supply. The council underscored its efforts to ensure the safety of the borough’s water and discussed the broader context of environmental stewardship.

The council addressed the financial implications of the loss of state school funding, exploring options for seeking restitution and examining the funding formula.

Community events were part of the council’s updates, highlighting the seniors’ mini carnival and wellness dinner, and the townwide garage sale.

Ongoing infrastructure projects were a major focus, with updates on the downtown revitalization phase three, the 2024 roadway improvement program, and the Franklin Field bleacher improvements. Concerns about delays and the condition of Franklin Field were voiced, stressing the significance of these projects for the community’s infrastructure and recreational spaces.

In a resolution concerning a property’s water account balance, the council proposed placing a lien in exchange for a payment plan. Moreover, the council touched upon negotiations with the dispatchers union and the potential decertification of representation by the teamsters.

The borough engineer provided updates on projects like the galvanized water service line replacement, recreational field upgrades, and the Hawthorne Kitty pool enhancements, outlining progress and future steps.

Furthermore, the council discussed a New Jersey Recreation Improvement Grant application for new bleachers, which could minimize local funding needs if successful. This effort to secure additional funding sources for community projects was an important aspect of the meeting.

The introduction of an ordinance to fix the 2024 salaries, wages, and compensation for borough employees sparked a discussion about equitable and sustainable financial planning for municipal staff.

Reports from special council committees included updates on the Hawthorne rabies clinic, Board of Education meeting outcomes, and congratulations to the local roller hockey teams for their championship wins. The Board of Recreation and the library provided updates on forthcoming events and activities.