The issue of fence regulations dominated the public comment portion of the meeting, with a resident expressing deep dissatisfaction over the borough’s restrictions on fence heights. The resident articulated concerns about safety and privacy due to her property’s proximity to a busy county road and an excavating business. She described a long-standing six-foot fence on her property that had been in place for over two decades, arguing that it provided necessary protection and should not be subject to new regulations that she felt were unfairly applied. Despite the council’s acknowledgment of her concerns, they reiterated that changes in zoning laws require a formal process governed by state statutes. The resident left the discussion feeling her situation was not adequately addressed, although she appreciated the opportunity to voice her concerns.

In addition to the fence issue, the council heard a detailed presentation on the 2025 municipal budget from auditor Steve Wilcox. He outlined the budget’s challenges, including increased costs due to health benefits, pension obligations, and inflation. Wilcox noted that a recent property revaluation doubled the average residential assessment, leading to a projected municipal tax increase. The council discussed the limited control they have over budget allocations, emphasizing the impact of external factors on the borough’s finances. The meeting concluded with the adoption of the budget and an ordinance establishing a cap bank for future budgetary needs, with no public comments received during the hearings.

The council also discussed two grant applications submitted to the Burden County Trust Fund. The first application seeks funds to improve Williams Field by installing new lighting for enhanced safety and extended recreational use. The second application aims to preserve the historic French burying ground through grave marker restoration and stabilization activities. The council emphasized the importance of these projects and noted previous challenges in securing grant funding. No public comments were made during the discussion of these grants.

Community updates included plans for upcoming events such as a wellness walk with the mayor, a paper shredding day, and a suicide prevention symposium. Council members reported on ongoing projects, including the French Brook restoration and River Road improvements. The council administrator provided updates on engineering projects, highlighting the anticipated start of the resurfacing project in July and the installation of electric vehicle charging stations.

In other matters, Councilwoman Grant discussed a letter sent to the Secretary of Defense regarding women’s inclusion in the armed forces. She expressed dissatisfaction with the response received, which she felt did not address the concerns raised. Grant intends to share the correspondence publicly for further transparency. She also announced an arts event featuring high school students and Broadway star Beth Fowler, set to take place at the end of May.

Additional updates included an increase in funding for veteran honors and announcements regarding the Memorial Day parade. The library board is reviewing policies and considering software options for online access to museum passes. Local author John Foley is set to visit the library soon, and the rent leveling board is working on drafting bylaws.

Councilman Seymour praised the New Milford Police Department and the Municipal Alliance for their efforts in raising awareness about addiction through a project at the YMCA. He also noted a recent meeting with federal and state representatives to discuss potential FEMA cuts affecting residents in flood zones.

The meeting concluded with a resolution to add a sustainable energy efficiency partnership grant to the budget. This grant will provide $5,000 for energy efficiency initiatives.