10:56The council dedicated considerable time to the discussion of replacing the outdated fire horn system, currently used by the borough’s emergency services. An inspection revealed that the system was old and required urgent replacement to ensure reliable emergency notifications. The council president underscored the importance of the system for public safety, emphasizing the need for a dependable alert mechanism. Various council members debated the necessity of the replacement, focusing on the budgetary challenges it presented, as the current budget had already been finalized without accounting for this expense.

The estimated cost for the new fire alert system is approximately $13,000, but it was noted that $180,000 is available in the capital improvement fund. The proposed upgrade aims to synchronize with the existing equipment at Company 2, offering opportunities to modify tones and timing for different emergency types, including flood alerts. Council members raised questions about the sound levels of the new system, with one participant seeking specific information on how the new equipment’s volume compared to the current system.

05:06In addition to the fire horn system, the meeting addressed the introduction of several ordinances. The council voted to introduce an ordinance granting easements to Public Service Electric and Gas Company (PSE&G) for the installation of electric vehicle charging stations at Borough Hall, the public library, and Knights Field.

Another ordinance introduced was a bond ordinance to appropriate an additional $80,000 for the ongoing Main Street improvements project. This project, having undergone various changes and adjustments, necessitated additional funding. The council voted in favor of introducing this ordinance.

08:25Community involvement in the Hackensack River Superfund site also featured prominently in the meeting. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) had reached out to the borough to engage the community in the project. The borough plans to establish a Community Involvement Plan (CIP) committee consisting of seven members, including council representatives and other local stakeholders. The council unanimously approved a motion to appoint these members.

00:56The achievements of local Girl Scouts were recognized during the meeting. Anna Ramirez, representing the New Milford Girl Scout service unit, acknowledged the efforts of seven girls who earned the Silver Award. Two of the recipients, Miriam Ashhat and Aubrey El Desiree, were present to receive their honors. Ramirez encouraged them to pursue the Gold Award, highlighting the impact of their service projects on the community. Council members enthusiastically congratulated the recipients.

15:23The meeting also covered upcoming community events, including the Milford Little League adult night on June 20th, a golf event by the Milford Athletic Department on June 30th, and the graduations for New Milford High School’s class of 2025 on June 24th, with announced road closures to facilitate the ceremony. Preparations for National Night Out on August 5th were confirmed to include fireworks, and Clean Communities Day was scheduled for October 4th, featuring trail restoration activities.

18:35The administrative report provided updates on ongoing projects, such as a storm drain upgrade on River Road, expected to last about two months, with daily alerts to inform residents of road closures. Borough Hall’s summer hours were adjusted, and a certificate of commendation from the Burton County Board of County Commissioners was announced, honoring New Milford for hosting a public meeting.

19:24A painting linked to the estate of Edward F. Brimo, depicting the Jacobus Demer Homestead and created by Patricia Sprouls, was discussed. The mayor received an email regarding the artwork, intending to honor Mr. Brimo’s wishes by displaying the painting in the town. The Historical Preservation Commission was proposed as the body to determine an appropriate display location.