0:00The meeting began with an update on the Dean Drive redevelopment plan, which has encountered a setback due to the sale of the hotel property to a new owner. Jeff Zen, who provided the update, emphasized that the redevelopment plan required unified ownership of all properties involved. The sale has raised concerns about whether the new owner is bound by the existing redevelopment terms. Zen clarified that the plan allows for either assisted living or hotel development, but with the ownership now divided, the future of the project remains uncertain. The council is faced with the challenge of navigating these complexities without an agreement with the new hotel owner, further stalling the assisted living project.

37:54The discussion then shifted to the $1.6 million flood control grant awarded by Congressman Gotham to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) in New Jersey. These funds are earmarked for debris removal and stream cleaning, with the borough responsible for a 25% match, totaling $400,000. The council expressed optimism about the grant’s cash flow structure, which allows for monthly expense drawdowns, contrasting with other grants that require reimbursement post-completion.

0:00Further into the meeting, the council addressed the town’s tree ordinance, which has prompted resident concerns over tree removal and replacement requirements. The ordinance mandates that property owners plant a specific number of trees upon removal, a requirement some residents find difficult due to limited land. The council discussed the need for an appeal process concerning the Department of Public Works’ decisions on tree planting, highlighting the ordinance’s aim to mitigate tree loss while ensuring fair enforcement. Members debated the fairness of requiring homeowners to contribute to a fund when unable to plant the required number of replacement trees, but there was consensus against providing exemptions, underscoring property owners’ responsibility for tree removal decisions.

The council also deliberated on landmark tree designations, with some members advocating for automatic designations without property owner consent, especially for significant trees like a 200-year-old beech. The existing ordinance requires property owners to request landmark status, a process some members see as flawed. The council aims to protect community resources while adhering to the law, acknowledging enforcement challenges.

19:30Public comments included gratitude for council involvement in a recent remembrance event and concerns about downtown parking and business permits. A resident mentioned the opening of a workspace facility downtown, signaling progress and upcoming communication with borough officials.

The administrator’s report highlighted the municipal swimming pool membership program’s success, achieving revenue goals. There was discussion about extending early bird membership rates to encourage more sign-ups, potentially easing taxpayer burdens. The report also noted responses to a Request for Proposals for the post office parking lot.

37:54The council reviewed ordinances, including Ordinance 25-8, amending the police department’s structure, and Ordinance 25-9, addressing parking limits on Washington Street. Both were confirmed and passed without public comment. Consent agenda resolutions were approved without opposition, with the fireworks contract for July 5th highlighted.

Councilwoman Dayton reported on a planning board meeting discussing a historic home subdivision and a proposed downtown apartment building. Concerns about flooding and stormwater management were reiterated, with calls for further evaluation, especially in the East Hill area.

The council also discussed the Pride Committee’s bid to become an official borough committee, with insurance coverage identified as a potential issue. Plans to revisit this in the next meeting were proposed. The senior center and downtown committee announced various activities, including a Spring Fling event, while the joint use meeting with the school board focused on shared services to reduce costs.

The Environmental Commission reported progress in their initiatives, including a successful composting program. Upcoming events and initiatives aimed at reducing plastic waste were discussed.