The meeting began with the promotion of Sergeant Don Harvey, a moment that drew applause from both the council and attendees. A resolution, numbered 24-268, was introduced to authorize the promotion. Following a motion and a second, the resolution passed unanimously. Sergeant Harvey was then sworn in, taking an oath to uphold the Constitution of the United States and the State of New Jersey. This was followed by the swearing-in of Elijah Di as a junior firefighter, who recited a similar oath, further boosting the morale of the gathered audience.

Celebratory events continued with the recognition of local baseball and softball teams. Coach Neil Hirsch and the girls’ softball team were honored for their season, which concluded with a record of 10 wins and 2 losses and a championship victory. Coach Hirsch praised his coaching staff and players. Trophies and accolades were distributed, with special mentions of players and coaches.

Similarly, Coach Michael Lazar introduced the boys’ baseball team, celebrating their successful season with a 10-1 record and a championship win. Individual players were called up to receive certificates, and Coach Lazar emphasized the importance of teamwork and support from parents and other coaches. Coach TJ Downey also addressed the council regarding the 11U team, noting their impressive record of 18 wins and 4 losses over the years and expressing pride in the players’ development in both skills and sportsmanship.

Following the recognitions, the meeting shifted to the mayor’s report on ongoing municipal projects. The paving of Franklin Avenue was discussed, with new dates for milling set for September 26th and 27th and paving scheduled for September 30th and October 1st, weather permitting. The mayor advised residents to be mindful of potential detours during this period.

Additionally, updates on the Patriots’ Way bridge were provided. Work would continue with span three and then span one, as the old bridge had been removed and the new superstructure was being positioned.

During the public comment section, resident Nikolai Carlson expressed concerns about a conspiracy involving the municipal government, citing prolonged legal proceedings and feelings of being denied civil rights and access to law enforcement. Another resident, Joseph Furio, expressed gratitude for a resolution aimed at securing a loan for R Mountain Lakes (RML), which he reported was now financially solvent and progressing with de-annexation plans. Furio also raised concerns about a potential developer interested in purchasing Mirror Lake, which was causing apprehension among residents about potential changes to the area.

The council then moved to routine approvals, including the minutes from a previous meeting, social affairs permits, and raffle licenses. A request from the construction firm Lenar to continue work on Saturdays through October was denied due to concerns about noise affecting residents on weekends.

Resolutions concerning various municipal matters were then addressed, including authorizations for contracts with engineering firms for drainage improvements and other infrastructure projects, as well as adjustments to personnel matters such as hiring utility clerks and reappointing acting municipal clerks. Each resolution was methodically approved through motions and roll-call votes.

The council also introduced an ordinance related to streetscape design standards aimed at improving the downtown area. This initiative seeks to provide clarity for developers and eliminate ambiguity in design guidelines. The introduction of the ordinance was approved, with a public hearing and adoption scheduled for a later date.

Amendments to the stormwater control ordinance were discussed, necessitated by new state requirements regarding stormwater management. The updated regulations aim to make standards more for developers concerning impervious surfaces and emphasize the use of green infrastructure.

The necessity for a revision in the fire prevention fee structure was also discussed, stemming from complications in attracting food vendors for a weekly craft fair due to high inspection fees. A proposal to amend the code to allow a single inspection valid for 10 consecutive weeks was supported by the council.

Further, the flood buyout program’s phase four was reviewed, involving properties on Leni Lane and Lakeshore Drive. Due to rising housing values and changes in appraisal standards, the council reviewed proposals for updating appraisals, with Web Appraisal offering a significant discount for conducting all appraisals simultaneously.