03:24One of the most notable items discussed was the hiring and swearing-in of three police officer trainees: Eric Jorski, Alexander Cunningham, and Anthony Graziosi. This decision was made to bolster the local police force, and the new recruits are scheduled to begin their training at the police academy in July. During the ceremony, each trainee recited an oath to uphold the Constitution of the United States and the State of New Jersey.

13:14The council also adopted the 2025 budget after opening the floor for discussion. The local tax levy was set at $5,574,160, with a slight tax rate increase of 0.045 from the previous year. For homeowners, this translates to an annual increase of approximately $82 based on the average assessed home value of $172,298. The budget’s adoption came after addressing several ongoing projects, including the need for guide rail installations on Still Valley Road and concerns about delays in reimbursement for a project on Pinchers Point Road. Additionally, there was a focus on securing updated repair quotes for the Department of Public Works roof.

11:52Attention then turned to various development projects and related concerns. Notably, the council discussed the conversion of an abandoned bank into a medical office by AFC Backcom, with the application for this project deemed complete. The transformation has been a topic of discussion among council members, particularly regarding the use of third-party inspectors. Additionally, the council touched on efforts to address the affordability gap in housing through a proposal from EI Hampton Ridge, which includes plans for 40 additional units. This proposal is set for further discussion in the coming months, with the council emphasizing the need for review and planning.

50:47The meeting also addressed the deteriorating condition of an auto repair property next to the mall, which had stalled due to unresolved violations. Frustration was expressed over the lack of response from the property owners, and the council considered issuing summons for non-compliance.

45:57Public safety and infrastructure improvements were another focal point. The council received updates on traffic control plans for River Road, known for its accident-prone curve, with a meeting scheduled for July to further address these plans. Additionally, discussions about traffic concerns included the intersection of Snyder’s Road and River Road, where residents have requested stop signs to address speeding issues, particularly for quarry trucks. The council acknowledged the need for county input and the importance of assessing current traffic patterns before implementing changes.

15:11Community facilities and amenities were also brought to the forefront, with proposals for enhancing local parks, including the installation of benches and dog waste stations at a basketball court. The council discussed logistical details such as dimensions for fencing and plans for off-street parking enhancements. Water access at the local park was another topic, with discussions about connecting water to an existing bathroom facility, considering potential upgrades to prevent freezing pipes during winter.

01:02:18The council explored financial strategies for ongoing projects, particularly sewer management. There was a proposal to use funds from sewer connection fees rather than resorting to bond money for the initial phase of an INI project, estimated at $98,000. This approach was contingent upon confirmation of available funds.

23:30This included the introduction of a Facebook page aimed at improving communication with residents. The council also received reports from various departments, highlighting the significance of maintaining public safety and infrastructure, as well as addressing community concerns.