30:20A primary focus of the meeting was the ongoing Main Street Improvement Project, which has encountered financial hurdles. The original project design, which includes traffic-calming bumpouts, exceeded the budget by approximately $161,000. Despite a Department of Transportation grant of $470,000, the council is seeking an extension due to the delay in project commencement. Discussions revolved around potential cost-saving measures, such as eliminating the bumpouts, which could save around $60,000. While bumpouts enhance pedestrian safety by slowing traffic and increasing visibility, they also reduce parking space and could complicate snow removal. The council weighed these safety benefits against financial constraints and logistical challenges, emphasizing the need to maintain uniform landscaping and adequate maintenance for the area.

39:12Complementing the infrastructure discussion, the council addressed pedestrian safety on Main Street, spotlighting the inadequacy of current crosswalk measures. Concerns were raised about drivers’ failure to yield to pedestrians, sparking suggestions to implement features used successfully in neighboring towns, such as prominent crosswalk signs and activated lights. A proposed flag program, where pedestrians carry orange flags to increase visibility, was also discussed, although community participation remains uncertain. The dialogue underscored the necessity of law enforcement in enhancing pedestrian safety, with the suggestion that police presence at critical crosswalks could deter violations and reduce near-miss incidents.

12:15The meeting also turned its attention to water conservation, driven by persistent drought conditions. An ordinance was proposed to introduce voluntary restrictions on lawn watering, limiting it to twice a week, to promote efficient water use and avert potential water emergencies. The council debated the practicality and fairness of such restrictions, particularly the financial implications of installing smart meters for irrigation systems. Emphasizing education over enforcement, the council discussed public awareness campaigns, possibly involving schools to foster community engagement in water conservation efforts. The need for clear, consistent guidelines to prevent evaporation during peak daylight hours was noted, alongside collaborations with environmental groups to disseminate educational materials.

27:16In other matters, the council considered a long-term drainage plan to address stormwater management and reduce flood risks, prompted by recommendations from the Joint Insurance Fund. With the possibility of legal and engineering support offered to implement flood risk control programs, the council acknowledged the challenge many municipalities face in maintaining and updating drainage systems.

44:00The meeting concluded with announcements of upcoming community events, including a Suicide Prevention Symposium, a Memorial Day parade, and wellness initiatives. Administrative updates included plans for a mobile Motor Vehicle Commission event and progress on electric vehicle charging stations. Notably, the borough’s ranking as the ninth safest city in New Jersey highlighted the positive impact of the police department’s community engagement efforts, particularly in schools, contributing to a decrease in violent crime rates.