A significant portion of the meeting concentrated on staffing issues within the Department of Public Works. Resolution 263 proposed hiring a new full-time employee for the department, prompting questions about the current distribution of full-time versus part-time staff. It was noted that the DPW officially lists 13 employees, but there was confusion over the actual number of full-time employees, with some suggesting there are only nine. This ambiguity led one participant to question the prudence of using taxpayer money to hire without a clear understanding of current staffing needs. The urgency of the situation was underscored by the upcoming leaf season, which requires increased manpower. Concerns were also raised about the frequent breakdowns and costly repairs of aging equipment like the street sweeper, with repairs reportedly costing thousands of dollars. The council discussed the necessity of acquiring new equipment to ensure efficient operations. Ultimately, a motion was made to table the resolution pending further information.

The council also debated the introduction of Ordinance 2024-46, which pertains to authorizing various capital improvements. The ordinance, set for a first reading, includes projects on Central Boulevard, raising questions about why the borough should finance improvements on a county road. The allocated funds for these projects were deemed excessive by some council members, who sought further details on the proposals. Additionally, concerns were expressed about ongoing projects related to Route 5 and the installation of LED lights, questioning their approval by the Department of Transportation and the potential liabilities. The council also sought updates on the availability of grants, such as a $2 million allocation for improvements on Broad Avenue. While most council members supported moving the ordinance forward, one expressed hesitation, preferring to have all inquiries addressed before proceeding.

Financial transparency emerged as a topic of concern, particularly regarding donations from local merchants for town events. Council members emphasized the need for detailed accounting of how these funds are allocated. A suggestion was made to discuss these financial matters in an executive session to ensure examination without public disclosure, leading to a decision to exclude resolution 252 from the agenda until more details were provided. A new resolution related to hosting overseas visitors was introduced, proposing that funds for hosting be sourced from donations rather than taxpayer money. This resolution, which received general agreement, aimed to maintain financial transparency and accountability.

In addition to these issues, the meeting touched on several other matters. The council discussed the possibility of hiring full-time traffic officers to enhance revenue generation through improved enforcement. It was revealed that there are currently no full-time traffic officers, sparking a debate on the benefits of increased staffing in high-traffic areas. Public participation highlighted local concerns about infrastructure and safety. Residents raised issues such as the poor condition of Fifth Street, traffic congestion near the high school, and sound system problems during meetings, emphasizing the need for improved communication and oversight in construction permits.

The council acknowledged the efforts of the police department in enhancing patrols and presented commendations for officers’ past actions. However, unresolved legal matters prompted discussions about transparency and communication regarding lawsuits affecting the town, leading to a motion to enter executive session.