Nicole Horvath

This ordinance, 26-07, for the Borough of Matawan, aims to amend development regulations by establishing a new Highway Improvement District Overlay Zone (HI-AH) to facilitate inclusionary development. Its primary focus is to diversify housing opportunities and fulfill affordable housing obligations. Key provisions include new zone district regulations, detailing permitted uses such as multifamily residential with affordable set-asides, and specifying requirements for area, bulk, parking, site design, and affordable housing, mandating that 20% of residential units be restricted to low and moderate-income households.

The meeting included the swearing-in ceremony for new Police Officer Dylan Wanigill and the appointment of Brian Liacy to the Economic Development Business and Development Commission. A motion passed to approve the hiring of firefighter Sean Morelli. Discussions covered Ordinance 26-06, authorizing $2,900,000 for general capital improvements including stormwater management for Tina Place, Sarah Court, Franklin Street, and Onyx Place, and authorizing the issuance of $2,761,500 in bonds. The Council voted to opt out of the county tax assessment demonstration program to maintain local control and to join the county pooled note program for short-term borrowing, which is expected to yield better interest rates. The governing body also authorized the formal issuance of approximately $4.5 million in already authorized debt. Furthermore, a resolution was passed to enter into an agreement for self-served kayak rental kiosks at the lake and pickleball equipment rental kiosks at Clinton Street, with the borough retaining 40% of rental revenue. Several resolutions addressed zoning and affordable housing updates required by state law, establishing pathways for 20% affordable housing set-asides in future developments within the Highway Improvement District and at the train station area. The administrator provided updates on various road projects, including the 2022 sewer rehabilitation program, Clinton Street Park improvements phase two, and work on High Street and Washington Avenue, noting construction continuation in the spring due to cold weather. The bid opening for the 2026 to 2030 solid waste recycling contract is scheduled for March 31st. The engineer also reported on the need to revise Ravine Drive water and sewer plans due to utility realignments associated with JCP&L electrical system upgrades.

The meeting included the addition of Resolution 26-02-15 to the agenda. Discussions and approvals centered around several ordinances, including Ordinance 26-01 regarding administrative approval of payment plans for water and sewer charges, and Ordinance 26-02 concerning updates to vacant properties registration requirements and fees. Ordinance 26-03, a bond ordinance for park and recreation improvements at Tune Park, was also addressed. Furthermore, the Council authorized the acquisition by negotiation for two separate real properties under Ordinances 26-04 and 26-05. Key resolutions approved included authorizing an application for the FY 2026 local recreation improvement grant, the purchase of a 2026 Ford Police Interceptor vehicle, an emergency contract for solid waste and recycling collection services, and a resolution approving a settlement concerning prior round affordable housing obligations and a consent order for the fourth round obligation. Council Person Arlland Fus left the meeting prior to the final votes on some matters.

The governing body discussed and passed resolutions concerning municipal operations. Key actions included joining the statewide insurance fund for a three-year term commencing January 1, 2026, which covered various liabilities such as workers' compensation, general liability, and cyber liability. Ryan Michaelelsson was appointed as the local unit's Fund Commissioner for the 2026 fund year, with Nicole Schneeberger appointed as the alternate. A subsequent resolution confirmed these appointments for 2026. The meeting concluded with a motion to recess to the 2026 Borough Reorganization Meeting.

The meeting commenced with opening formalities, including a moment of silence, and established rules for the privilege of the floor. Key actions included the approval of five new firefighters (Patrick Bey, Neil Harding Rutled, and Alexander Tadros). The council approved the midyear appointment of Kevin Pent to the Economic Development Business and Redevelopment Commission. The consent agenda saw resolutions passed, although Resolution 26-1-45 regarding a solicitor license for Victory Home Remodeling was voted on separately and failed. New business involved approving a license term ruling for Hudson Square Hospitality Group Inc. for both 2024-2025 and 2025-2026. A shared services agreement with the County of Mammoth for emergency medical services was authorized. Contract award approval was granted for instrumentation equipment parts and supplies for the PVSC warehouse. An ordinance was introduced to amend Chapter 22 regarding water rates and charges to authorize the borough administrator to approve payment plans up to $2,000. Another ordinance introduced amendments to Chapter 15 regarding vacant property registration requirements and fees. A bond ordinance was introduced to finance $775,000 in park and recreation improvements for Tune Park, supplementing existing grant funds. Finally, ordinances authorizing the acquisition of real property at Block 25, Lot 6, and Block 28, Lot 5, were introduced. The meeting concluded with the payment of bills and a motion to adjourn to executive session without taking further action.