Patricia C. Ackerman

The regular meeting commenced with the flag ceremony and opening prayer. Council reviewed and approved the minutes from the January 5, 2026, reorganizational meeting, including a correction related to inviting specific individuals to a future meeting. The 2025 annual audit was presented by the auditor, noting a qualified opinion due to the omission of the Somerset Trust police pension fund information, while clean opinions were issued for other funds. Key financial points discussed included a net loss of $128,000 for the year, a decrease in total assets attributed to the window replacement project expenditures, and an increase in general government expenses related to that project. Debt statements were reviewed, noting the Somerset Trust loan was paid in full. Two material weaknesses were noted in the management letter: lack of segregation of duties and the absence of Borough personnel to prepare financial statements according to regulatory basis. The Finance Committee report covered monthly bills and fund activities, leading to the approval of various payments, including an increased donation to the Fire Department, raising it from $1,000 to $5,000, and a routine transfer between the general fund and flood control account. Discussions also covered electric bills, noting favorable current rates compared to the market comparison rate, and the upcoming mandatory conversion of non-LED street lights to LED by First Energy at no cost to customers.

The meeting began with the swearing-in of new council members. The presiding official outlined the procedure for the reorganization meeting, which included electing a new president and vice president before continuing with other officer elections. Minutes from the previous meeting on December 9, 2025, were approved. Financial reports included approval to pay general fund bills totaling $1,467.81 against an $83,338.25 balance. During public comment, residents expressed support for the reappointment of Brian Weatheright to the Municipal Authority (MMA) board, citing his knowledge and success in securing a $200,000 grant. Another resident reported significant basement flooding due to clogged storm drains and inquired about municipal responsibility and curb height ordinances. The council agreed to discuss the flooding matter further, possibly during a scheduled workshop. A motion was approved to accept the quote of $1,700 from Duda Actuary Consulting for police pension plan services, payable from the police pension fund. Committee reports noted progress on installing a water fountain and basketball hoops.

The meeting covered the approval of minutes from the Regular Meeting on November 11th and a Special Meeting on November 20th, including a correction to the November 11th minutes. Financial matters included the approval of monthly bills and presentation of fund balances. A significant portion of the meeting involved opening sealed bids for municipal properties. The bid for 326 Salsbury Street, which had multiple offers, was tabled pending solicitor review regarding survey costs and to confirm the highest bid of $12,950, which offers the best potential to cover outstanding taxes owed to the school. Bids for 351 Myers Avenue (Parks A and B) and 618 Grand Street (vacant lot) were opened, with the latter two being awarded to the sole bidder (Chris Arnold/CA Rentals) for $5,055 and $5,055 respectively, with notice acknowledged regarding an existing wall. Discussions also addressed the unsafe structure at 221 Salsbury Street following a fire, noting that enforcement actions against the out-of-state owner have been unsuccessful, leading to plans to file a complaint and injunction under the Blighted Property Act. Pricing estimates for demolition were also obtained as the property taxes are current.

The meeting included committee reports covering municipal authority, where the process for appointing a new member to a five-year term was discussed, with applications due by January 2nd at noon. Discussions addressed issues with the street foreman regarding protection needs at the gym. The Merchants Association reported that their December monthly meeting was canceled, and plans for the Lady Bird Johnson memorial banner funding were pending grant approval following a required revision. Committee reports also covered the Farmers Market, noting that discussion was tabled until January, but a significant concern was raised regarding a drainage ditch at the location that poses a safety hazard to elderly patrons using wheelchairs and walkers; a motion was suggested to address this by installing gutters and diverting water. Further discussion involved expenditures for concession stand improvements, including purchasing six new picnic tables, potentially using excess funds for the drainage ditch work, and ordering a discounted low-profile microwave for the stand, which was approved. The Library report highlighted successful historical programs and consistent monthly circulation figures, while the Community Events report summarized a successful Lightup Night and plans to potentially move future events indoors. Finally, the Police Public Safety Personnel Finance committee report included an update on flood control grants for debris basin cleanout, with a recommendation to pursue the DCED grant application in February, including a proposed 25% local match.

The meeting commenced with a flag ceremony and opening prayer, recognizing veterans. The council proceeded by deviating from the agenda to hear reports from the student representative detailing November high school events, including parent-teacher conferences, Veterans Day assembly, and upcoming musical performances, and a presentation regarding the highly successful 2025 Summer Food Program, which resulted in a $2,400 donation to the Borough for picnic tables. Discussions covered the approval of the October 14, 2025, meeting minutes and the approval of monthly bills totaling $8,422. The council decided against switching electricity providers due to concerns over contract terms and potential rate increases. Furthermore, the council addressed the outstanding paving cost coverage from the 2024 contract, agreeing to send a final payment representing half of the outstanding amount. A special meeting was scheduled for November 20th to vote on the Occupation Tax ordinance, which required approval by December 1st.