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Borough Council Meeting - June 23 2026
Published: Jun 23, 2026
Community Honored, Development Projects Advance, and Summer Events Announced
The Mayor's Teen Advisory Council and the Highland Park Community Food Pantry were honored for their work. The Teen Advisory Council assisted the food pantry by raising funds and awareness about food insecurity. Councilmember Hale introduced an ordinance authorizing planning for the Third Avenue Plaza, with a public hearing scheduled for July 7th. Councilmember Vargas announced upcoming events: a Historical Commission open mic on June 25th, and fireworks in the park on July 2nd. Councilmember Hirsch discussed the borough's tree planting initiatives, the Environmental Center, and the Mary Denver Native Plant Sanctuary, highlighting Highland Park's community-driven approach to urban forestry. He also mentioned the Safe Routes to School ordinance and various flag raisings celebrating diverse communities. Councilmember George reported on the Highland Park Police Academy, the library's American Conversation project, and the FEMA grant for firefighter assistance. Councilmember Selak echoed congratulations for the flag raisings and mentioned upcoming meetings for the Commission of Universal Access and the Human Relations Commission. The Borough Administrator explained an ordinance to update fees for construction permits, housing inspections, and lead-based paint. Council President Kim Chauhan congratulated the Teen Advisory Council and Spencer Rockman, and reminded residents about water/sewer bill due dates and consent agenda items including grants.
Borough Continues Aggressive Tree Planting and Environmental Stewardship
Councilmember Hirsch discussed the borough's ongoing commitment to tree planting, including the follow-up work after planting over 100 trees. He mentioned a tree watering contract and the Shade Tree Advisory Committee (SAC) assessing the health of new trees and existing ones. Hirsch emphasized Highland Park's unique community-driven approach to tree planting and urban forestry, contrasting it with other towns that tie tree planting to redevelopment. He encouraged residents to volunteer for the Shade Tree Advisory Committee, noting the benefits of improved shade, walkability, storm water management, and air quality. The Environmental Center's air conditioning was updated, and the Mary Denver Native Plant Sanctuary was re-dedicated, with thanks extended to various groups involved.
Third Avenue Plaza Project Advances; Fee Adjustment Ordinance Introduced
Councilmember Hale introduced an ordinance authorizing payment for the planning of the Third Avenue Plaza. A public hearing for this project is scheduled for July 7th. Ordinance 26-2131, an ordinance providing for the South Third Avenue Plaza Project, was introduced. This project involves appropriating $4,500,000, which includes a portion of a New Jersey Department of Community Affairs Grant. It also authorizes the issuance of bonds and notes to finance part of the cost. Ordinance 26-2132, amending chapters 135 and 303 of the borough code to adjust fees related to construction permits, housing inspections, and lead-based paint, was also introduced. Many of these fees have not been updated in over 10 years. The Borough Administrator explained this ordinance, noting that it includes updates to fees and incorporates new items advised by the state DCA.
Civic Engagement and Inclusivity Highlighted as Pillars of Community Strength
Councilmember Hirsch emphasized the importance of community events and civic rituals in fostering understanding, dialogue, and a stronger sense of belonging. He linked these events, such as flag raisings and tree planting, to Highland Park's tradition of inclusion and civic engagement, which sends a message of welcome to diverse populations. He referenced a C-SPAN interview with Sarah Isgur, editor of Scotus Blog, to discuss the importance of institutions, civic norms, and maintaining relationships across political disagreements, arguing that a healthy democracy requires disagreeing on policy while recognizing each other as citizens. Hirsch stated that community events create spaces for neighbors to interact and reinforce a shared identity. He also stressed the value of approaching civic work with good faith, good intentions, open hearts, open minds, and kindness. Councilmember Vargas also touched on the importance of community and removing barriers. The discussion on flag raisings also underscored the borough's commitment to recognizing diverse communities. The discussion on the Safe Routes to School ordinance and its long implementation time was also noted.
Safe Routes to School and Firefighter Safety Grants Discussed
The Safe Routes to School ordinance is moving forward with a second reading. An additional funding amount will help significantly with the construction, roadways, approvals, and engineering aspects of the project. A FEMA grant for assistance for grants was also mentioned, which helps offset costs for cleaning firefighter turnout gear after each use, as required by state law. Additionally, a $7,000 crackdown grant and an appropriation for a new side loader garbage truck for DPW up to $430,000 were part of the consent agenda.
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The Highland Park News archive
Zoning Board Meeting - June 22, 2026
Planning Board Mtg - June 11 2026
Borough Council Meeting - June 9, 2026
Borough Council Meeting - May 19, 2026
Borough Council Meeting - April 28, 2026
Planning Board Meeting - April 16, 2026
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