12:01The introduction of the Hometown Heroes program was a focal point of the meeting, celebrating local individuals who have made contributions to the community. This initiative, which took two years to develop, allows residents to register online to honor their heroes with banners placed on decorative light poles throughout the town. The project has already seen initial interest, with six registrations on the first day. The council expressed enthusiasm for the program, encouraging community members to participate due to limited availability.

00:00In the realm of budgetary discussions, the council addressed the challenge of meeting a 2.5% budget increase target amidst rising costs and limited state aid. The mayor highlighted the borough’s financial constraints, noting that state contributions have totaled only $21,000 over the past five years, complicating efforts to manage health coverage and wage expenses. The council introduced Ordinance 214625, a standard measure to allow exceeding municipal budget appropriation limits and establish a cap bank at 3.5%. The ordinance passed unanimously after a roll call vote.

21:20Community engagement was further emphasized with the announcement of the first public input meeting for Victor Kra Park, scheduled for April 1st. This is the first of four meetings aimed at gathering community feedback on park development. The Parks Committee is spearheading this initiative, inviting residents to contribute their ideas and preferences.

The council also discussed various community events, including the annual Recreation Bunny Hop on March 29th and the second annual Borough Volunteer Fair on May 3rd. The Volunteer Fair aims to engage community members in local volunteer opportunities, fostering a sense of civic responsibility and collaboration.

23:39In response to concerns about emergency service volunteer retention, the council considered a proposal for an emergency service volunteer fee waiver. This measure would relieve active volunteers of borough-only fees, aiding recruitment and retention efforts across the fire department, fire police, rescue squad, and Office of Emergency Management.

The meeting also covered updates on infrastructure and public safety. The fire department reported 29 calls in February, including responses to building fires and motor vehicle accidents. The playground at Cook Field is reportedly 90% complete, with further developments pending a pre-construction meeting. Additionally, a special meeting with the Board of Education addressed fencing issues.

02:09Ordinance discussions included the introduction of Ordinance 214425, which amends regulations on contractor storage yards. A participant raised concerns about limiting yards to one contractor, arguing for the practicality of shared spaces. The council acknowledged this issue.

05:08The meeting concluded with lighter notes from the mayor, who expressed appreciation for a fellow council member’s assistance during a recent absence and recognized the retirement of Carmen Modica after nine years of service. The mayor also congratulated the Boulevard Deli on its grand reopening.