Highlands Borough Council Discusses Liquor License Transfer and State Responsibility for Road Repairs
- Meeting Overview:
At the recent Highlands Borough Council meeting, the transfer of a liquor license to 181 Bay Avenue was approved, marking a development for the old Methodist church, which will now function as an event space. Additionally, a contentious issue with the state Department of Transportation (DOT) regarding a raised manhole cover was addressed, as the state threatened to withhold snow plowing services unless the borough fixed the issue.
The council approved the transfer of a liquor license to the historic site on Bay Avenue, previously known as the red brick church. This decision enables the location to be used as an event space, providing them the ability to serve alcohol at future events. The resolution was adopted without opposition.
Another issue discussed was the dispute with the state DOT regarding a raised manhole cover on a state road. The DOT contacted the borough late in the morning, insisting that the borough is responsible for fixing the manhole cover to ensure their snow plows can safely operate. The borough is pushing back, arguing that since they did not install the cover, it should be the state’s responsibility to address the issue. The borough is considering hiring a contractor for $15,000 to resolve the problem but is continuing to negotiate with the state.
Carolyn Broullon
City Council Officials:
Jo-Anne Olszewski (Council President), Donald Melnyk (Councilmember), Karen Chelak (Councilmember), Leo Cervantes (Councilmember)
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Meeting Type:
City Council
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Committee:
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Meeting Date:
01/21/2026
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Recording Published:
01/22/2026
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Duration:
10 Minutes
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Notability Score:
Routine
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State:
New Jersey
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County:
Monmouth County
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Towns:
Highlands
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