The lead pipe replacement project, a significant undertaking for the borough, was at the forefront of discussions. Residents were concerned about the pace of the project and the communication regarding households with unresolved water meter replacements, especially those with lead lines. The borough has allocated a million dollars for this initiative, but bureaucratic hurdles complicate the funding process. The council acknowledged the responsibility of replacing lead pipes extends beyond individual homes to include street connections, a necessary step to comply with state regulations.

Residents also raised questions about whether galvanized pipes were included in the replacement plan. Borough officials assured that both lead and galvanized pipes were under scrutiny according to state guidelines. Discussions also touched on post-replacement water treatment, with residents concerned about the continued presence of trihalomethanes, a byproduct of chlorine reacting with organic materials in the water, rather than from lead pipes themselves.

The council expressed gratitude for a recent grant of one million dollars for lead line replacement, acknowledging the support from state representatives. However, they stressed the ongoing need for additional funding, as compliance deadlines loom on the horizon.

Concerns about procedural issues within the council were also a significant topic. A council member highlighted the importance of transparency and adherence to established laws, expressing dissatisfaction over recent manipulations of council bylaws without proper resolutions or majority votes. They emphasized the need for maintaining transparency and the trust of Milltown residents. A particular instance involving alterations to Resolution 2025-22 was cited, where council comments were changed without a vote. The council member advocated for amending council rules to ensure committee reports are read at every meeting, not just monthly.

In parallel, discussions surfaced about the substantial taxes owed on properties along Fort Avenue and Main Street, totaling over $7 million. This financial burden has persisted, raising questions about the actions of previous administrations and the impact on current taxpayers. A council member called for a serious conversation about the allocation of any future recovered funds.

The meeting also addressed the longstanding contamination issues related to the old Michelin site. Despite the borough attorney’s caution regarding discussions that might conflict with redevelopment efforts, a council member insisted on addressing ongoing contamination concerns, highlighting the relevance of these issues to the borough’s plans.

Amidst these discussions, the council also touched on the water meter replacement initiative, noting that approximately 90.7% of meters had been installed. However, issues with scheduling appointments for the remaining meters persisted, attributed to phone line problems. Concerns were voiced about the contractor’s limited availability, with the contractor reducing their presence in town from five days a week to two.

The meeting concluded with a series of community updates, including a report on a successful pumpkin carving contest and ongoing discussions with local businesses about water and sewer rates.