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Residents press Wallington council on OPRA records, stump removal and DPW facility plans
Summary
At the May 7 Wallington caucus, residents asked the mayor and council about OPRA records for stop-sign work orders, outstanding tree stumps and the future of the DPW facility; officials said stump grinding is scheduled and that DPW facility options remain under study.
Wallington Mayor Melissa Dabal and council members heard several public comments at their May 7 caucus session about municipal record requests, street maintenance and plans for the Department of Public Works facility.
Resident Peter Galecki said he had submitted an Open Public Records Act (OPRA) request seeking records tied to stop signs on Mt. Pleasant Avenue and asked whether related work orders exist. Mayor Melissa Dabal answered that stop-sign installations are typically implemented by ordinance and that signs are kept in DPW inventory; she advised that OPRA requests should identify the specific records sought rather than require the borough to locate unspecified materials.
Galecki also reported a tree removed from Maple Avenue in December whose stump remains and raised concerns about sharp bluestone curbing on Maple Avenue that he said risks vehicle tire damage. Mayor Dabal said she had discussed stump-removal scheduling with DPW Superintendent Dynes and that stump grinding and removal is anticipated between the end of May and the first week of June. She also acknowledged ongoing discussions with Borough Engineer Juzmeski to identify curb and sidewalk improvement needs and funding sources.
Resident Khaldoun Androwis asked about plans to redevelop or improve the DPW facility. Councilwoman Justyna Marciniak said a recent meeting with Borough Engineer Juzmeski had explored potential options and that the conversations remain preliminary; no renovation cost estimates or final decisions have been made.
John Rebecky, speaking about the recent council vacancy, said the three nominees submitted to the borough clerk had been selected at a County Committee meeting and that the county selection process was conducted transparently. The council then closed the public-comment period on a motion by Councilwoman Susanne Preinfalk.
The council did not commit to any new actions beyond the stump-removal timing and continued planning for curb and DPW facility work; residents seeking records were told to submit targeted OPRA requests.
