14:42The meeting began with a notable tribute to Tina Weiss House, whose contributions to environmental sustainability in Highland Park were celebrated by the council. Tina was instrumental in leading a year-long educational campaign that culminated in the “bring your own bag” ordinance, implemented in February 2019. This initiative was supported by a $10,000 grant from the PS&G Foundation, aimed at reducing single-use plastic bag consumption among residents and businesses. Her efforts were acknowledged as influential in advancing a statewide ban on plastic bags. Tina’s legacy extended beyond environmental advocacy, as she was also active in immigrant justice and labor rights movements. A fellow advocate, Melanie McDermad, praised Tina as a “fierce and unwavering advocate for cutting-edge environmental causes.” The Mayor shared condolences with Tina’s family, underscoring her lasting impact on the community.

24:37Following the tribute, the council addressed several pressing administrative matters. The discussion included extending the grace period for the third-quarter property taxes, aligning it with the budget certification process. Another topic was the preparation of an affordable housing plan, with a state deadline looming on June 30. A draft of the housing element and fair share plan had already been shared with the planning board, with a public hearing scheduled for June 12. The final plan was slated to be presented to the council for endorsement on June 24.

07:21The council also turned its attention to community engagement and upcoming events. Council members reported on various initiatives, including flag-raising ceremonies for Caribbean American Heritage Month and Pride Month. The Caribbean American Heritage flag-raising event had already taken place earlier in the evening, and plans for upcoming celebrations were enthusiastically shared. One council member highlighted the arrangements for the Fourth of July fireworks event, detailing the lineup of food vendors and entertainment activities, such as face painting, a gaming truck, and community craft tables.

Additionally, there was discussion of ongoing community safety and infrastructure improvements. The council acknowledged the work of the Safe Walking and Cycling Committee, which recently organized a successful bike rodeo to promote bike safety. Participants, especially children, received bicycle bells, a feature advocated by the Mayor to enhance safety for cyclists and pedestrians alike.

10:15In line with the community-focused agenda, a council member offered an update on the farmers market, describing it as “live and kicking” as summer approached. The market’s significance in supporting local agriculture and providing fresh produce to residents was emphasized.

25:41On a more somber note, the Mayor led a moment of silence in honor of another beloved member of the community, Dino Weiss House. The Mayor also highlighted the myriad of activities and celebrations filling the month of June, such as Caribbean Heritage Month and Pride Month, and shared a story of renewed community engagement from a resident who attended an event for the first time in 43 years.

23:32The meeting also provided a platform for public participation, although no comments were forthcoming from attendees during the designated segments for public input. The Mayor and council members extended invitations to upcoming community events, reiterating their commitment to fostering an inclusive and engaged community atmosphere.