Rockaway Borough Council Meeting 6:11:26

AI generated: This meeting of the Rockaway Borough Council, held on June 11, 2026, focused primarily on the introduction of the 2026 municipal budget and a detailed study of water and sewer rates. Summary of Key Proceedings 2026 Municipal Budget: The Chief Financial Officer presented the proposed budget, highlighting a 2.84% municipal tax increase (approximately $6.38 per month for the average homeowner). The budget maintains all current services and includes investments in public safety and infrastructure without service cuts. Water and Sewer Rate Study: A representative from the auditing firm explained that rate increases are necessary for the first time in several years to sustain operations through 2028. The study recommended an average quarterly increase of $9.24 for sewer and $20.86 for water. Storm Response: The Council and residents commended the DPW, Police, and Fire departments for their rapid response to a severe "mini-Sandy" storm that caused significant damage, power outages, and road closures the previous Saturday. Public Safety & Infrastructure: Reports were given on recent police activity (including 32 motor vehicle accidents), ongoing water meter replacements, and planned road resurfacing projects. Community Events: Announcements included a 250th Revolutionary War anniversary tree planting ceremony on June 27th and the annual "Cars and Coffee" event on July 19th. Timestamps 00:00:00 - Call to Order and Rules of Conduct 00:01:04 - Resolution 135-26: EEOC Compliance Certification 00:03:00 - Introduction of the 2026 Municipal Budget 00:04:18 - Budget Presentation by the CFO 00:15:55 - Year-over-Year Tax Comparison and Summary 00:16:38 - Water Utility Budget Details 00:21:48 - Correspondence: Christmas Tree Sale Permit Request 00:22:35 - Committee Reports 00:22:45 - Police and Emergency Management Report 00:27:57 - DPW and Water Department Update 00:34:26 - Parks and Recreation Report 00:35:25 - Ordinance Committee Report 00:38:12 - Fire Department and Board of Health Report 00:43:03 - Ordinance Adoptions 00:43:06 - Ordinance 26-11: Salary Ranges 00:51:24 - Ordinance 26-12: Water and Sewer Rates 00:52:56 - Water and Sewer Rate Study Presentation 01:25:16 - Public Comment Session 01:59:01 - Motion to Enter Closed Session