Here is the latest Take Five briefing from the January 16, 2024 meeting of the Mayor and Borough Council.
1) Winter Preparedness: Mayor Foster and Council President Hersh thanked DPW for their response to Tuesday’s snow and encouraged residents to be prepared for future storms this winter. We would like to remind residents to observe “No Parking” rules on marked emergency routes and remove snow/ice from sidewalks within 12 hours after snowfall ends. ADA curb ramps should also be kept clear to maintain accessibility for all of our residents. If you need assistance with snow removal, our Community Services team has a referral list of individuals willing to help; please keep in mind that some individuals may charge a fee.
2) Water Meter Replacement Program: Property owners that have not yet had their water meter replaced should contact National Metering Services (NMS) to book their appointment for a meter replacement as soon as possible. NMS has both traditional and ‘Sabbath-compliant’ water meters available now. NMS can be reached by phone at 1-888-488-0009. This project is a critical component to Highland Park’s ongoing efforts to upgrade our aging water infrastructure to ensure the sustainability of the system in the long term. If you have any difficulty making an appointment with NMS, please contact the Water Department at 732-819-3788. Please visit the Borough’s website for more information.
3) Capital Ordinance for Improvements to No. 4th Avenue, from Denison Street and Harper Street: An ordinance appropriating $609,980 from the Borough’s recent allocation from the NJ Department of Transportation’s Municipal Aid Program for improvements to No. 4th Avenue from Denison Street and Harper Street was introduced and a public hearing will be held prior to its adoption on Tuesday, February 6th at 7:00 p.m.
4) Cooperation Agreements with HP Gives a Hoot and the HP Community Food Pantry: In order to enhance their programming and qualify for a substantial donation from retired Highland Park Police Officer Leonard Kushner’s estate, HP Gives a Hoot and the HP Community Food Pantry were incorporated as nonprofit corporations in 2023. The cooperation agreements between the Borough and these newly established 501(c)3 organizations formalizes our relationship and provides for space for food distribution and other programming in Borough facilities.
5) 31 River Road Financial Agreement: Borough Council authorized an agreement with the Highland Park Board of Education to provide them with 60% of its Payment in Lieu of Taxes received for 31 River Road (now known as the Frederick building) in 2023 and annually thereafter for the duration of the financial agreement, subject to annual authorization by Borough Council. This agreement reflects Borough Council’s ongoing commitment to public education and demonstrates the spirit of cooperation between Borough Council and the Board of Education to provide the best possible education for Highland Park’s students.
If you’re interested in watching the January 16th Mayor and Council meeting, go to the HPTV Youtube channel where the video of the meeting will be posted in its entirety. The next meeting of Mayor and Council is scheduled for Tuesday, February 6th at 7:00 p.m.
