At the meeting, there was a notable focus on the local law enforcement’s advancements. The council approved the promotion of Sergeant James Delinsky to Lieutenant, a role in which he will serve as deputy Patrol Commander. Delinsky’s career achievements and contributions to the department were highlighted during the meeting. The council also promoted police officer Paul Stefanelli to Sergeant, recognizing his service and responsibilities within the department. Police Chief expressed appreciation for the council’s support and brought attention to the upcoming 85th anniversary of the police department.

Another topic was the introduction of the “Pillars of the Community” recognition program proposed by Mayor Jack Mikolajczyk. This initiative aims to acknowledge individuals, families, businesses, and entities that have made substantial contributions to Middlesex Borough. Councilman Michael Conahan brought forth the idea. The council members reached a consensus to implement the program, with a tentative date set for the second meeting in March.

The discourse around the Culture and Heritage committee’s appointment process elicited a debate. Councilman Jeremiah Carnes voiced concerns regarding the transparency of appointing committee members and the absence of interviews for certain candidates. In response, Mayor Mikolajczyk defended the council’s approach, stating the responsibility for interviews fell upon the council members, who had not fulfilled it.

The meeting also addressed ordinances and public hearings, notably Ordinance numbers 2,111 d24 and 201112 d24, which involved the Greenbrook flood risk management project in collaboration with the United States Department of the Army Corps of Engineers. These ordinances were scheduled for public hearings on future dates. The council also reviewed ordinances related to zoning, filing fees, fire department regulations, and the Council’s bylaws.

An array of upcoming events and initiatives were discussed, including the police department’s 85th anniversary and Traffic Safety Campaign. The formation of councilmatic committees was outlined, with each council member assigned specific areas of responsibility, such as administration, public safety, finance, public works, and recreation. Council President Michael Conahan expressed gratitude to the Department of Public Works for their dedication to maintaining the borough’s infrastructure.

The meeting further addressed the community’s input and involvement, with citizen Frank Bryan raising a question about the promotion of local businesses and individuals. This initiated a conversation about how best to support and recognize community entities, although a detailed proposal was not fully explored during the meeting.

Council members also discussed the erosion issues at Heather Lane property, emphasizing the need for resiliency grants to manage the ongoing problems exacerbated by recent storms.

The approval of resolutions on the consent agenda was another key aspect of the meeting, which included authorizing the release of performance bonds, tax cancellations, and refunds as well as approving grant applications.

In terms of transparency, there was a request for increased openness regarding the posting of financial information, such as the bill list, with suggestions to make it accessible to the public in a timelier manner. The role of the reinstituted environmental commission was also debated, focusing on their participation in reviewing development applications.