The Neighborhood Watch program, presented by Chief U Igan, received considerable attention as a community safety initiative. Officer Stone from the community policing division detailed the program’s benefits, which include improving neighborhood security and safety, educating residents on crime trends, and conducting home safety assessments. The initiative, which features quarterly meetings, signage, and community engagement to address issues like speeding and catalytic converter thefts, was met with approval by the council. Councilman Tony Ciulla commended Officer Stone’s efforts and the community’s role in enhancing safety.

The council’s agenda session brought forward three first readings on ordinances aimed at addressing current and future needs of the borough. The first reading proposed expanding the list of towing companies to accommodate larger vehicles. The second focused on an ordinance to exceed municipal budget appropriation limits and establish a cap bank for 2024, receiving public support for using borough funds for road infrastructure improvements. The third entailed amending the borough code to permit parking in front yards during borough-declared emergencies, a term broadened from the initial “snow emergencies” to encompass other situations. The council agreed to accept the proposed amendment.

Discussions continued with the second reading of an ordinance to finance road improvements, which was well-received by the public, and another ordinance to update the borough’s code on vehicles and traffic. Both were moved to second reading. Additionally, an ordinance concerning records was introduced, but due to a lack of the revised version, which included a provision on vehicle removal, the council deferred its consideration to the next meeting.

The council voted on several ordinances, including one for the removal of vehicles from Blue Acres property, which passed unanimously. They also touched upon the 2023 Local Aid Program Grant, the storm water assistance grant program, and the need for new police vehicles as part of the 2024 budget discussions. The fire chief reported on the department’s call averages and plans for pre-planning in the Industrial Area. The Office on Aging, Environmental Commission, and the Economic Development Committee provided updates on their respective activities and plans.

Public participation yielded concerns about Virginia Street’s issues, speeding, and the desire for more proactive traffic enforcement measures, including speed cameras. The council was praised for fostering a business-friendly environment, as evidenced by recent film production activities in the borough.

The council approved multiple consent resolutions on various administrative matters, with all but one item receiving unanimous consent. Councilman Ciulla announced a community paper shredding event, and Councilwoman Donna Balazs reminded residents to keep sidewalks clear. Councilman Henry Dziemian voiced support for the Neighborhood Watch program, while Councilman John Krenzel commended local departments for their service and highlighted the importance of waste management. Councilman James Gurchensky encouraged public participation in upcoming events and Council President Jason Oliveira discussed community development and safety initiatives. Mayor Peter Guindi provided an overview of the town’s recent power outage, the anticipated winter storm, and the town’s response to these challenges.