The proposed cell tower near Stony Brook Pool drew significant concern from residents, with over a hundred individuals expressing opposition due to its proximity to an elementary school and senior housing. A resident, Robin Nearov, presented these concerns during the public comment period, emphasizing potential health risks associated with the tower’s location. Nearov highlighted the tower’s proximity to vulnerable populations, including children and the elderly, and referenced research suggesting increased health risks within a 500-meter radius. She proposed relocating the tower north of the high school, where it would be less intrusive.

Council members engaged in a dialogue following Nearov’s comments, acknowledging the difficulty of finding a suitable location for the tower in a community with such close proximity to sensitive areas. A council member countered the health concerns by citing FCC and American Cancer Society findings that radiofrequency waves from cell towers are non-ionizing and pose no health risk, with exposure levels far below safety limits. The member recognized the aesthetic concerns but maintained that safety and improved communication were priorities.

On the financial front, the council discussed substantial increases in employee health insurance premiums, which the borough currently subsidizes by two-thirds. The projected 35 to 42% increase in premiums posed a potential financial strain, with discussions suggesting a municipal tax increase of 14 to 15% by 2026 without intervention. Council members explored various strategies to mitigate this impact, including reducing capital improvement funds, transferring surplus from the Stony Brook pool, and seeking additional shared service contracts.

Another financial burden discussed was the $55,000 annual cost for testing at Centennial Field due to elevated methane levels, a requirement imposed by the Department of Environmental Protection. This cost is in addition to existing expenditures and is necessary for compliance, regardless of recent readings.

In terms of infrastructure, the council faced unexpected cost increases for constructing a new playground facility at Memorial Field. Ideas to address the financial imbalance included postponing grant utilization and delaying work on the Beachwood Park van shell. The council aimed to keep the property tax increase to a manageable 4.5% to 5% for 2026, with pilot payments from local developments expected to improve the budget situation by 2027.

The council also addressed planned changes at Memorial Field, where redesigning the coaches’ box could save the borough $80,000, funds that could be redirected to other enhancements.

In another development, the council received a bid from Verizon to build a cell tower on Stony Brook property. Residents within a 200-foot radius will be notified and given the opportunity to express their views during upcoming council and planning board meetings. The potential annual revenue from such a tower was cited as $48,000, with the possibility of hosting multiple vendors.

The meeting concluded with unanimous approval to swear in new members of the fire department. The council also reminded attendees of the upcoming tree lighting event on December 8th.