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High Bridge council approves $26,550 historic-preservation grant over objections about state control
Summary
On April 24 the High Bridge Borough Council approved Resolution 099-2024 to accept a $26,550 New Jersey Historic Trust Preservation Fund award for the Taylor Wharton and Steel Company Historic District after debate over potential state restrictions and building-maintenance costs; the motion passed 4–2.
The High Bridge Borough Council voted April 24 to accept a $26,550 award from the New Jersey Historic Trust Preservation Fund to support work on the Taylor Wharton and Steel Company Historic District, despite objections from two council members and some public commenters.
Mayor Michele Lee and council members discussed the possible effects of Green Acres or similar program restrictions on borough property and noted that maintenance and building-repair costs could follow from district designation. Lee said the council should finish the budget process before taking on commitments that might affect public property. Councilwoman Isabel Matos said the resolution’s purpose is to define the district boundaries, preserve and maintain the borough’s historic structures, and begin the grant application and research; she also suggested donating council stipends to help offset costs. Councilwoman Ferry urged further review of the information meeting and the meeting video; Councilman John Nowell raised concerns about increased state control over borough property and the difficulty of leaving such programs if the borough later chose to do so.
Two members of the public who spoke before the vote — Sally Ward and Kim Farrier — said they do not support Resolution 099-2024 and urged caution about limits that a designation could impose on the Town Hall and other properties.
After discussion, the council approved the resolution on a roll-call vote: Councilman Doyle, no; Councilwoman Ferry, yes; Councilman Graham, yes; Councilwoman Matos, yes; Councilman Silvestri, yes; Councilman Nowell, no. The motion passed 4 yes, 2 no. The resolution accepts the $26,550 award to move forward with defining the district and related preservation work.
The council did not adopt new restrictions at the meeting; the action authorizes acceptance of the grant funds and continuation of the application and planning process. The council’s next regular meeting is scheduled for May 9, 2024.
