Summit council approves bonds, fees, appointments and routine ordinances; Ashland sidewalks, Chestnut lot and staff COLAs also advance

At a lengthy June meeting, Summit Common Council approved a package of administrative and capital items tied to the 2026 municipal budget and the city's capital plan.

Key votes and actions: - Bond ordinances: Council authorized multiple bond ordinances to finance municipal capital projects ($5.6 million), sewer improvements ($2.25 million), and parking-facility work ($2.59 million). Councilmembers said the financings were consistent with the budget and would not harm the city's strong bond rating. - Fees and salaries: The council updated the municipal fee schedule and established 2026 salary levels for union and nonunion employees. Council approved a modest cost-of-living adjustment for eligible nonunion staff. - Ashland Road sidewalks: The city authorized a contract award (approx. $220,000) to construct ADA-compliant sidewalks on Ashland Road and adjoining streets, a long-sought neighborhood safety improvement driven by resident petition. - Chestnut commuter lot: The council adopted an ordinance to temporarily reopen the Chestnut Street lot for commuter parking while the property remains city-owned; ParkMobile or prepayment will be accepted while kiosks remain removed. - Film-ready ordinance introduced: The council introduced an ordinance based on the New Jersey EDA model to standardize film and video production permitting and fees; staff said it includes safeguards allowing the city to limit volume if needed.

The meeting also included the formal appointment of Andrew Smith to fill the Ward 1 vacancy (voice vote). Several consent agenda resolutions were adopted as a block.