The Council meeting opened with Corresponding Secretary Paladino congratulating the new officers and expressing anticipation for the borough’s participation in the tree lighting ceremony on December 1st. Michael F. Ritchie, Jr. from the Public Works Committee, provided an encouraging update on the borough’s water tank cleaning project, stating that the tank had been successfully emptied, cleaned, and tested, with plans for another cleaning in the following week.

Significant strides are being made in infrastructure improvements, as reported by a member of the Building and Grounds Committee. The discussion centered on stabilizing and improving East Prospect Street, with ongoing design work for the Wh Spawn Rehabilitation project and upgrades to Boner Street. The Veterans Day ceremony, which this member attended, was noted to have had a significant turnout due to favorable weather conditions.

Mayor Thomas A. Giordano, in his report, announced that budget planning for 2024 was underway. He indicated that a resolution for budget transfers would be included in the following month’s public meeting schedule to accommodate cost overruns or unexpected expenses. The mayor also expressed enthusiasm for an upcoming redesign of the borough’s website, aimed at enhancing communication with residents.

In the realm of community development, the Council discussed a resolution to authorize the bidding process for two projects on Bonard and Hudson Avenue. These projects are eligible for Community Development block grant funding and reflect the Council’s commitment to improving the living conditions of its residents.

The 2024 calendar, as Borough Clerk Clark Kelly noted, would provide comprehensive information on various collections and events, including the Christmas tree lighting and the menorah lighting. The Council also praised the community’s participation in the families’ food drive.

The Council also delved into discussions of public parking amendments, touching on the nuances of fees for paid parking at the Park and Ride, and the policy for handicap parking spots for private residences. This highlighted their commitment to ensure fairness and accessibility in the borough’s public facilities.

During the meeting, the Council also navigated through several sensitive issues. A resident expressed concerns about repeated police visits due to their dogs barking, feeling targeted and suggesting a reevaluation of the noise ordinance. The Council assured the resident that they would investigate the matter further.