The Road program for 2024 is poised to be the most extensive the borough has undertaken, both in terms of the mileage of roads to be improved and the total dollar amount allocated. It encompasses a variety of improvements such as paving, drainage, sidewalk completion, and the addition of amenities. The council elaborated on the plan, which reflects a 70% increase in road infrastructure funding over a 10-year period, from 2023 to 2032.

In conjunction with the Road program, the council detailed an exciting project at Sycamore Recreation Complex, which includes the construction of new softball fields. These fields are set to feature synthetic turf infields, natural grass outfields, and supporting amenities like bleachers, dugouts, and a new storage building. This development aims to bolster community recreation facilities and promote local sports.

The council’s financial overview revealed a decrease in net statutory debt by nearly $8 million, or 37%, from 2014 to 2024, averaging a reduction of almost $887,000 per year over the past nine years. This fiscal responsibility has been recognized by Moody’s, which upgraded the borough’s credit rating in 2020 to an A1 rating – only one step below the highest AAA rating. Furthermore, the municipal tax rate has seen a decline of 14.2 cents, or 30%, over the last five years.

The 2024 budget presentation by the Chief Financial Officer was comprehensive, highlighting the borough’s strong financial position with a substantial fund balance and consistent tax collection rate. The CFO described the budget as fiscally sound, responsible, and free of gimmicks or structural issues. The budget includes key appropriations for public works, public safety, and infrastructure development, with a focus on maintaining a healthy fund balance and managing costs strategically.

Another focal point of the meeting was the municipal open space trust fund, which generates revenue through a tax rate of 2.25 cents per $100 in assessed valuation. The fund had a revenue of $335,000 at the end of 2023 and projects a revenue of $1.2 million for 2024. Its expenditures for the upcoming year will cover salaries and wages for maintaining open space, other associated costs, and servicing open space debt, which includes a $500,000 principal payment. Notably, the council stated that no new debt would be authorized in 2024 for the sore improvements.

The council also discussed the grants associated with capital projects for 2024, totaling $1,831,000. These grants will support various projects, including road improvements, softball fields, public safety initiatives, and park restroom enhancements. The capital projects overview for 2024 affirmed adherence to the borough’s long-term capital debt management plan, enabling these increased investments.

Park improvements, drainage repairs, and sewer system upgrades comprised another significant portion of the meeting’s agenda. Plans were announced for the construction of a new restroom building at Wardell Park and water main improvements. Other enhancements include lighting installation at Haw haxen Park, development of trails, playgrounds, and a fishing platform at the Waltz property and significant sewer system improvements to ensure efficiency during storms.

The meeting also touched on the submission of a Sustainable Jersey Grant application, with a resolution of support from the council. The Environmental Commission’s efforts were highlighted in light of the upcoming Earth Day event on April 28th. Regarding waste management, a detailed letter from County Commissioner Tom addressed the progress in mitigating odor issues at the MCRC landfill, citing enhanced gas collection systems and additional wells as part of the initiatives to curb gas emissions.

The landfill monitoring committee reported their progress in developing a system to log and address resident concerns. Additionally, the council introduced an ordinance to exceed municipal budget appropriation limits, which will be subject to a public hearing on March 19, 2024.

During the public discussion, residents expressed their appreciation for the comprehensive budget presentation and the updates on the landfill. Questions were raised about the budget increase for the library, progress on the Earth Day Festival, and the preference for synthetic turf over real grass. Concerns were also voiced regarding the environmental impact of synthetic turf, with a suggestion to plant native species in public spaces for environmental benefits.