The borough engineer’s report included a positive update on the 2024 Road program. The engineer recommended awarding the contract to Fernandez Construction. Additionally, the borough engineer addressed the need for a new water main along Wardell Road, positioning it as a critical step to provide adequate water service for the proposed restroom building at Wardell Park. However, it was recommended that the council reject the sole bid received for the restroom building due to the bid’s significant exceedance of the anticipated cost.

Residents brought various issues to the council’s attention. The council received commendation from one resident for their fiscal prudence. However, concerns were also raised about housing affordability, with one resident highlighting the lack of a rent leveling board and the burden of significant rent increases in recent years. This concern underscores the growing community issue regarding the cost of living and housing stability.

Another resident inquired about the staffing levels within the police department, specifically the number of uniformed officers budgeted and whether these positions were fully funded.

Community events and public services were also a focal point of discussions. The Business Administrator acknowledged the success of the recent Earth Day event and informed the council of upcoming activities, including the Junior Police Academy and Community Day. A resident expressed gratitude to individuals involved in the Earth Day Festival. Appreciation was extended to nurses during Nurses Week and educators during Teacher Appreciation Week.

The planning board’s approval of a preliminary and final major site plan for Trinity Hall was noted, along with commendations for the success of the Earth Day celebration and the restoration of the piano at the Crawford House. The library construction updates and the announcement of an upcoming music festival further illustrated the ongoing cultural and educational development within the borough.

A resident expressed concerns about traffic law violations by trucks associated with a specific organization, pointing to potential safety risks for the community. The council acknowledged the concerns and assured follow-up, signaling their responsiveness to public safety and resident feedback.

The timeline for the Wardell Road projects was clarified in response to a resident’s inquiry. Construction of the new water main was anticipated to begin within the next month, with the restroom building construction expected to start in the summer. The council noted the possibility of partial lane closures on Wardell Road during construction.