Here is the latest Take Five briefing from the April 4, 2023 meeting of the Mayor and Borough Council.
1) Highland Park Police Department (HPPD) Updates: Mayor Foster administered the Oath of Office to newly promoted Lieutenant Dave Soden, who has been with the HPPD since 2007. Prior to this promotion, Lt. Soden served as a patrol sergeant and traffic sergeant. Mayor Foster also had the pleasure of swearing in three new patrol officers: Justin Samson, Nicolas Sica, and Ryan Vanaman.
2) Redevelopment Plan for 420-424 Raritan Avenue: An ordinance authorizing the adoption of the 420-424 Raritan Avenue Redevelopment Plan (former Stop & Shop site) was introduced and a public hearing was scheduled for Tuesday, May 16th at 7:00 p.m. prior to a vote. Following the introduction, the governing body passed a resolution referring the plan to the Planning Board for their review for consistency with the Master Plan.
3) Ordinance Concerning Expiration of Terms for Boards, Committees, and Commissions: An ordinance was introduced to standardize the date of expiration for terms on Boards, Committees, and Commissions to December 31st. This will streamline the reappointment and vacancy fulfillment process moving forward. A public hearing will be on held on Tuesday, April 18th at 7:00 p.m.
4) Municipal Budget Introduction: The 2023 Municipal Budget was introduced and presented by the Borough Administrator. Presentation slides can be viewed here. A public hearing on the budget will be held on Tuesday, May 2nd at 7:00 p.m. prior to a vote.
5) Main Street Highland Park Budget Introduction: The 2023 Main Street Highland Park (MSHP) budget was introduced and a public hearing was scheduled for Tuesday, May 2nd at 7:00 p.m. prior to a vote. Main Street Highland Park manages the downtown business district for the benefit of the merchants, business owners, and residents.
If you’re interested in watching the April 4th Council meeting, go to the HPTV Youtube channel where the video of the meeting will be posted in its entirety. The next meeting of Council is scheduled for Tuesday, April 18th at 7:00 p.m.
