01:02:27The meeting’s primary focus was on the anticipated rise in electricity costs and the measures being taken to manage these changes. Representatives from Energy Tech presented their role in helping Hillsborough manage utility expenses, emphasizing the importance of fiscal responsibility amidst fluctuating energy prices. They discussed strategies such as energy auctions to secure favorable rates and highlighted ongoing efforts to separate lighting and non-lighting meters to lower costs. They also elaborated on a market-based strategy for natural gas to provide flexibility for future price fluctuations.

01:11:14Bob Flynn from Jersey Central Power & Light (JCP&L) addressed reliability issues, noting that recent power outages were partly due to dead ash trees. He emphasized the utility’s goal to improve transparency by distinguishing between their supply charge and rates set by the regional transmission operator, PJM. Flynn provided data on outage causes, highlighting animal contact and equipment failures as significant factors. He described ongoing projects to enhance reliability, including replacing wooden poles with fiberglass alternatives and conducting proactive inspections.

The council was particularly concerned about the communication strategies of utilities with residents. There were calls for improved transparency and communication regarding significant utility investments and infrastructure improvements. Suggestions included creating simplified summaries for social media to keep residents informed. Participants emphasized the need for a three-year plan addressing infrastructure improvements in hilly areas facing service inconsistency.

10:56The meeting also addressed shared services agreements related to building inspections. Concerns were raised about the financial implications and liability structures of these agreements. The council discussed a consulting contract with Phoenix for financial guidance during the transition to a new Chief Financial Officer (CFO), debating its necessity given existing support roles like bond counsel and auditors.

33:34Community achievements were celebrated, including the commendation of Cassandra Shannon, who was named the 2024 VFW Teacher of the Year for her dedication to multilingual students and community initiatives. The South Branch Reformed Church was recognized for its 175th anniversary, and the Hillsborough High School Legacy Show Choir and Mixed Coral received accolades for their achievements.

05:45The council celebrated the openings of Robinson’s Chocolates and Peru Chan, emphasizing the importance of supporting local enterprises. Events like the Hope for Tomorrow mental health fair and a bench dedication in memory of Vladimir Stabnoi were noted as community contributions.

Additional updates included information on the upcoming New Jersey primary elections, the Health Department’s Green Living and Wellness Fair, and the recreation department’s summer sports clinics. Committeewoman Hand emphasized stroke awareness month and promoted a local yoga and meditation program to encourage well-being.

02:06:23The meeting concluded with procedural matters, including the introduction of ordinance 2025-07 to amend traffic regulations and the approval of the claims list. The council invited public comments, although none were made before the meeting adjourned at 9:40 PM.