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Mayor Tait highlights trash‑collection savings, Rt. 73 redevelopment and community programs in State of the Borough
Summary
Mayor Gina Ragomo Tait told the Jan. 3 reorganization meeting that in‑house trash collection saved the borough money, Rt. 73 South redevelopment is advancing with affordable units partially occupied, Palmyra won a Phoenix Award, and the borough expanded summer meals and charitable supports.
Mayor Gina Ragomo Tait delivered the Borough of Palmyra’s State of the Borough during the Jan. 3 reorganization meeting, highlighting operational savings, capital projects and community programs the borough plans to continue in 2026.
Tait said moving municipal trash collection in‑house has ‘‘saved a considerable amount of money’’ while staff worked through operational issues. She noted the borough completed a 2025 road‑resurfacing program, plans another six‑block resurfacing under a 2026 road program and expects a revaluation of road conditions later in the year. Tait credited William Kirchner for work negotiating with PSE&G and NJ American Water Company on repairs and resurfacing tied to utility projects.
Development and awards Tait reported progress on the Rt. 73 South redevelopment project: construction continues, a second warehouse is under way, and affordable‑housing units in two buildings are partially occupied. The borough was the recipient of a Phoenix Award for the southside redevelopment; Tait said several local officials and professionals worked on the project over many years.
Community programs and partnerships The mayor said the borough continued its Summer Meals program for children after moving distribution into the community center; she reported the program has disbursed more than 20,000 meals over the past two years. To address need during the holidays, the borough established the Palmyra Hunger Trust Fund, which provided complete Thanksgiving dinners to 19 families last year. Tait also noted a partnership with Charles Street School on a community garden that produced a garlic harvest in 2025 and will grow carrots in 2026.
Transit safety, parks and business district improvements Tait said she, Senator Singleton and New Jersey Transit have held two community meetings about light‑rail and platform safety; New Jersey Transit intends to install six‑foot fencing in front of the platform. She announced recreational improvements including a children’s park dedicated to Matthew Dickerson and new pickleball courts planned for the Legion Field complex. Tait said council will work this year to make the business district more appealing and to attract new businesses to vacant storefronts.
Staffing and next steps Tait said the borough is actively seeking a deputy clerk and an assistant borough administrator. She asked each councilmember to lead an event they are passionate about in 2026 and said the borough will improve communications about local events.
The mayor closed by thanking borough staff and volunteers; the council then moved into routine business, including appointments and the consent agenda vote.
