During a recent council meeting, resident Richard Savino raised concerns regarding the transparency of the borough's redevelopment amendments, particularly after the recent withdrawal of a proposal. Savino emphasized the need for clearer communication about significant changes, such as increased building heights and impervious surface coverage, which he noted were not adequately explained in the public documents. He expressed frustration over the difficulty residents face in accessing detailed information, suggesting that the council should provide clearer summaries of amendments for public understanding.
In response to Savino's comments, council members acknowledged the importance of transparency and the need for discussions surrounding significant changes before voting. They agreed that residents should be informed about the implications of amendments, especially those that could impact the community.
Additionally, the council discussed ongoing efforts to merge ambulance services with neighboring towns, highlighting a proposal that would allow Hillsdale to serve as the lead agency. This initiative aims to optimize resources and improve service delivery without compromising volunteer support during nighttime shifts.
Council members also addressed environmental concerns, urging residents to conserve water amid ongoing drought conditions and to adhere to fire bans in place due to heightened fire risks.
The meeting concluded with a reminder for residents to attend an upcoming town hall meeting focused on Memorial Field, emphasizing the council's commitment to community engagement and transparency in local governance.