A significant issue tackled during the meeting was the sewage backups experienced by residents of North Street during heavy rains, exacerbated by a power outage affecting the local pump station. Emergency repairs to the generator have been made to prevent future incidents, and a local engineer has been engaged to analyze the pump station’s performance. Residents who suffered damage were encouraged to submit claims promptly as part of an ongoing review process.

The council also focused on infrastructure and municipal improvements, with updates on several projects. The finance department highlighted the potential benefits of securing a lower interest rate for existing debt, which supports various initiatives like the new Public Safety complex, Borough Hall renovations, and acquiring a new fire truck. The department also prepared to report results from the New Jersey Division of Local Government Services Best Practices Checklist at the next council meeting.

The Public Works and Engineering departments are involved in seasonal maintenance and upgrades. Leaf collection is underway, with instructions for residents to place piles curbside without debris. The department also announced acquiring a new hybrid truck for its fleet. Ongoing routine jetting of sewer lines and updates on tree requests following summer storms were also shared.

In a notable personnel change, Jim Matina, the electric utility superintendent, is retiring after 38 years of service. Chief lineman Vince Patty is recommended for promotion to this position, effective November 1. This transition will necessitate further personnel actions to maintain full staffing. Electric crews are also replacing overhead street lighting poles at the Cook Avenue reconstruction project with historic light poles and increasing the number of electric vehicle chargers in the parking lot.

Water infrastructure improvements were also discussed. The water department is conducting annual fire hydrant flushing, expected to continue through early November. Residents were advised to run their taps if they notice water discoloration. The licensed water operator has expanded testing protocols to monitor for PFAS, and the borough has joined a national class action lawsuit against manufacturers of these chemicals.

A highlight of the meeting was the success of Bottle Hill Day, where the attendance exceeded 30,000, and favorable weather contributed to its triumph. The Downtown Development Commission extended gratitude to event sponsors, vendors, volunteers, and borough employees. Upcoming events include the Madison Farm and Artisan Market and a series of community events such as Halloween festivities and a new Rose City Dog Day and Parade.

The council also shared updates on the Dodge Field accessible playground, with a ribbon-cutting ceremony scheduled for October 26 to thank those involved in its creation. Cook Plaza parking lot renovations are underway to improve safety and relocate handicap parking closer to businesses. The milling and overlay of municipal roads is ongoing.

In health department news, free influenza vaccinations are being offered to homebound residents, with encouragement for all residents six months and older to receive their flu vaccine before Halloween. The health department also recommends an updated COVID vaccine annually to reduce the risk of hospitalization.

Public comments touched on various community concerns, including a postcard campaign to save the Drew Forest, which garnered attention. The council also introduced an ordinance concerning housing standards related to lead-based paint inspections, with a hearing date set for November 13, 2024.