Council approves consent agenda including modular vehicle barrier and routine contracts

During the regular meeting the borough council approved multiple routine items in the consent agenda, including passage of Ordinance 7-26 (establishing a handicap parking space on South Edward Street), introduction of Ordinance 8-26 (affordable housing fee updates) on first reading with a public hearing set for April 27, and several contract authorizations.

Included in the consent agenda was authorization to purchase a modular vehicle barrier system from Safeware Inc. through a Sourcewell contract not to exceed $147,223. The business administrator explained the system’s capability to be configured for multiple lane equivalents, to stop vehicles including box trucks, and to be deployed by two adults. A resident asked whether renting the equipment would be feasible; the administrator said rental availability is limited and buying would provide guaranteed availability for recurring municipal events.

Also approved were an assignment of a groundskeeping contract to GK Landscaping of South Amboy (replacing Chris Lawn Care LLC) for the remainder of the contract (not to exceed $101,852.48), a fireworks contract to Pyro Star Entertainment LLC for up to $25,000 for the Independence Day event, and the purchase of two 2026 Ford F-250 utility trucks for the water department through the NJ State contract (not to exceed $140,672.20).

The business administrator also presented personnel and administrative items that were approved, including a six-month leave of absence request for a DPW employee and an appointment to the police department records support technician position.

Council members said they received demonstrations on the vehicle barrier and noted coordination among police, fire, OEM and DPW during testing. Administration reiterated that purchases must be executed via purchase order and CFO certification where required.