Laurie A. Courter

The meeting included a report on the Steampunk Fair by the Executive Director of BID, discussion of an ordinance regarding mini fire pits in cemeteries, and a report on the hiring of pool managers and supervisors. The council discussed a Railroad Mural project, including funding and location. An ordinance amending the municipal code regarding the discharge of fats, oils, and grease (FOG) was discussed. Resolutions were adopted for the release of site plan escrow, certification of the annual audit, authorization to prepare and mail estimated tax bills, and redemption of tax certificates. A resident requested a waiver for sewer and garbage fees, and council members provided remarks on various topics. An update was given on the Mill Pond dam, with a recommendation to revert the property back to the Grantors. The council entered an executive session to discuss personnel/litigation matters.

The meeting addressed concerns regarding a potential second dispensary in Washington Borough, with letters from residents read into the record. Reports covered updates from the BID, EMS, LUB, and Recreation departments, including upcoming events and community initiatives. The council discussed a complaint about mulch at the library, attacks on employees, property maintenance, calculation of fees for tax liens, the BID budget, and the cancellation of fireworks due to insurance and manpower issues, proposing a food truck festival instead. Open public comment included discussions on a dog kennel application in Washington Township, a dispensary license application, and concerns about traffic and parking. Council members shared remarks, and the meeting moved into an executive session to discuss personnel and litigation matters.

The meeting addressed a proposal for Harding Drive from Suyker Tree Care, and a decision was made to accept the proposal from Sunshine Tree and Landscape for removals only, with stump grinding and postponement of tree pruning to 2026. The Arbor Day planting was recapped, noting eleven trees planted and potential replacements for damaged trees. An update on the Community Forestry Management Plan was given, with a need to unlock the file by year-end. The maintenance list was updated to include 165 Broad Street, 184 Belvidere Ave, and 3 Alvin Sloan, and a discussion was held regarding missing trees on North Prospect Street.

The meeting included discussion on approving claims, old business, new business, ordinances, and resolutions. Resolutions included appointing a Deputy Emergency Management Coordinator, re-appointing the Borough Manager, and requesting approval for the insertion of special revenue items in the 2025 budget for the Sustainable Jersey Grant and Clean Communities initiatives. The agenda also included an open public comment section, council remarks and discussions, a meeting recap by the Manager, and a possible executive session.

The agenda includes approvals of previous minutes, communications, public comment on agenda items, and reports from staff, boards, and committees. New business involves zoning/code enforcement, housing inspector updates, and accounts payable clerk matters. An ordinance amending Chapter 58-Property Maintenance is up for both first and second readings, with a public hearing and adoption planned. Resolutions include those for Trick or Treat, Police Portable Radios, and Salary adjustments. The agenda also covers open public comment, council remarks and discussions, a meeting recap by the Manager, and a potential executive session.