Here is the latest Take Five briefing from the September 2, 2025, meeting of the Mayor and Borough Council.
1) National Diaper Needs Awareness Week (September 15-21): On behalf of Mayor Foster, Council Member Postelnik recited a proclamation naming the week of September 15–21, 2025 as National Diaper Need Awareness Week in Highland Park. The proclamation highlights that nearly half of families nationwide struggle to afford enough clean diapers, which can impact children’s health and parents’ ability to work. It also recognizes the Ida Kushner Central Jersey Diaper Program in New Brunswick, the county’s only dedicated diaper bank, for providing essential support to families in need. Residents are encouraged to donate to diaper banks and drives to help ensure all children and families can thrive.
2) Arts in the Park on Sunday, September 14: Council Member Hale encouraged residents to come downtown for Main Street Highland Park’s 19th annual Arts in the Park festival on Sunday, September 14, featuring a juried art show, arts and crafts vendors, live music, food, kids’ activities, and more along Raritan Avenue. Artists across categories such as painting, sculpture, photography, jewelry, and textiles can compete for prizes and display their artwork on Main Street. The event also includes a Youth Art Show, open to artists 18 and under, with submissions accepted September 11–12 and displayed in the Welkovits Pavilion during the festival.
3) Bulk Trash Collection (by Appointment) is Back: Council Member Hersh reminded residents that throughout the months of September and October, the Department of Public Works will be continuing its Bulk Trash collection program, by appointment only. To make an appointment, please call Public Works at 732-247-9379. Highland Park households may request up to two bulk waste collections per year. Items must be placed curbside after sundown the night before collection, properly secured, and limited to accepted materials like furniture, fixtures, carpets, and small amounts of home improvement debris (contractor waste not allowed). There will also be a townwide bulk pick-up the week after the annual garage sale weekend on October 21 (NS, Triangle, Business District) and October 23 (SS).
4) Redevelopment Designation for Sunoco Gas Station and Adjacent Properties: The Borough Council designated properties at Block 2201, Lots 6, 7, 9, 10, 46, 47, and 48 (the Sunoco gas station and adjacent properties) as a “Condemnation Area in Need of Redevelopment” in accordance with state law. Following a study by the Borough Planner and a public hearing, the Planning Board concluded the parcels met the criteria for a redevelopment area. The next step in the process will be the creation and adoption of a redevelopment plan for the parcels.
5) Water Main and Roadway Improvements Coming to Woodbridge Ave: The Borough Council approved payment under a shared services agreement with Middlesex County for roadway improvements along Woodbridge Avenue from North 10th Avenue to Fox Road. The project will address drainage, traffic signals, sidewalks, and utility connections. Once the project schedule is fleshed out, the Borough will be sure to communicate it with businesses and residents in order to minimize disruption and inconvenience.
If you’re interested in watching the September 2nd 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 16th at 7 p.m.
