Full Notification

Here is the latest Take Five briefing from the August 12, 2025, meeting of the Mayor and Borough Council.

1) South Third Ave Plaza Public Open House: Council Member Hale encouraged residents to attend the open public forum about the South 3rd Ave Public Plaza on Wednesday, August 20^th, from 6 to 8 pm at the Highland Park Community Center. Residents are invited to drop in anytime during this open public forum to learn more about the project, share ideas or preferences, or raise concerns to help inform the plaza’s design. For more information about this event, please send an email to [email protected].

2) Restructuring the Human Relations Commission: The Borough Council introduced an ordinance to restructure the Human Relations Commission (HRC), reducing its size from 21 to 11 members. The changes are intended to streamline operations, clarify term start and end dates, and ensure consistent membership. Residents interested in joining the HRC are encouraged to fill out a volunteer application. The public hearing and vote on the ordinance are scheduled for the Tuesday, September 2, 2025 Council Meeting.

3) Completion of 2024 Municipal Audit: The Borough Council passed a resolution certifying the Borough’s 2024 Audit in compliance with state regulations requiring elected officials to examine and acknowledge the audit within 45 days of receipt. A copy of the audit can be found on the website by clicking here.

4) NJDEP Blue Acres Program: The Borough Council authorized a Memorandum of Understanding with the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection for the management of 446 Harrison Avenue. The property, which was damaged during Hurricane Ida, was purchased by the state in June 2024 through the Blue Acres Program, which acquires flood-prone properties to improve climate resilience and reduce future flood impacts. Under the agreement, the Borough will oversee the property’s maintenance in line with DEP guidelines. The move supports long-term flood mitigation efforts, reduces municipal service demands, and enhances public safety in the neighborhood.   

5) Funding for Molimock-Graff Park Improvements: The Borough Council authorized a resolution to apply for and execute an agreement for a $250,000 Capital Improvement Grant from the New Jersey Department of Community Affairs. The funding will be used for much needed upgrades to Molimock-Graff Park. This final grant will allow the Borough to begin work on the upgrades planned for the park, including a new playground and play area. The work is expected to begin later this year.

If you’re interested in watching the August 12^th Council meeting, go to HPTV’S Youtube channel where the meeting will be posted in its entirety.  The next meeting of Council is scheduled for Tuesday, September 2^nd at 7 p.m.