Politics & Government

Residents Call for Town Meeting, More Transparency on Borough Hall Decisions

Several members of council agree a public meeting should be called.

Hightstown residents told the council Monday they want more information on the process and discussion behind the future of Borough Hall and the police department.

Requests were made by members of the public for a town hall or public meeting to update the community on the status of the borough since the hurricane, as well as an explanation of options for Borough Hall and the police department.

“No decisions have been made on the future of Borough Hall,” said Borough Administrator Michael Theokas.

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Council members Skye Gilmartin, Lynne Woods and Selena Bibens said they support the idea of a public meeting.

“I understand that we don’t have all the answers for everybody right now but I think it’s really important before we make any more major decisions that we do exactly what was talked about – to have a special meeting,” Gilmartin said.

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Resident Paul Byrne said he wants to hear the deliberations about the future of the town buildings and the public should be included on what is going on.

Rob Thibault, who is running for council, said there is a lack of transparency.

“You have a responsibility to keep the public informed,” Thibault said.

Gail Doran, who is also running for council, said more information has to be brought to the public and several questions remained unanswered, including what would happen to the old building, what the impact on taxes would be and how residents would feel about all Borough functions being moved to the edge of town.

“I truly believe, I have to believe you all have the best interest of Hightstown at heart, but you have to convince the public that what you’re doing is well thought out and I’m not seeing that happen,” Doran said.

Patch wants to know what you think. Do you want a town meeting on the future of Borough Hall and the police department? Is the council providing enough information about the potential move? Why or why not? Tell us in the comments.


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