By Amy Batista Special Writer
HIGHTSTOWN — Volunteers were recognized at the Borough Council meeting on April 16.
"One of the things that impressed me when I moved here in 1997 was the sense of community and volunteerism,” said Robert Thibault, a council member.
Councilman Thibault organized the recognitions. He said that there were more than 300 volunteers in town — representing approximately ten percent of Hightstown’s population.
Also at the meeting, Councilwoman Susan Bluth and Councilman Thibault presented their findings on a fluoridation inquiry that began in March.
"We’re very happy to say that we spoke with our lead operator and the water plant operator. We firmly believe that after meeting with these gentlemen that they did everything they were (supposed) to do on the day that the pipe broke,” Councilwoman Bluth said, noting that the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection was immediately contacted.
She continued, “DEP advised us that they do not have a mandate to notify the public nor do they have a mandate to add fluoride to the water.”
She stated, “These two guys are long time employees. They are very dedicated. They would not do anything to jeopardize their jobs, more importantly they would not do anything to harm the residents of Hightstown.”
With the findings, the inquiry was over and the committee was satisfied, according to Councilwoman Bluth.
Also at the meeting, Councilwoman Lynne Woods discussed Borough Hall. She defined it as a “municipal complex” composed of four parts: Borough Hall, the construction office, the police station and the Public Works garage.
"I think we need to start looking at dealing with this issue in different sections,” Councilwoman Woods said. “I would love tonight at this meeting to have us decide to take action to seal off Borough Hall and refurbish it. That would be a first step.”
She continued, “It allows us to make a decision and finally start moving.”
Councilwoman Bluth agreed with Councilwoman Woods on the proposal.
"We are here two weeks later and still haven’t taken any action. We need to start doing something,” Councilwoman Bluth said.
"I can certainly only offer my recommendations and my opinions to the council and I’ll proceed as you wish,” said Business Administrator Michael Theokas. “I don’t think that makes any sense at all. We have no idea where the funding for that work would come from. We would have to come up with that money up front with no idea what would come back . . . I don’t see the rush.”
Councilman Thibault said, “I’m not ready to say tonight to take action to seal off or refurbish. I don’t have my folder (from the) previous meetings (with the) costs.”
No decision was made that evening to take action on Borough Hall. Council made the decision to have a committee composed of Councilwomen Woods and Bluth to solicit a resolution asking for professional services to develop the specks for refurbishing the front portion of Borough Hall.
The next council meeting will be 7:30 p.m. May 7 at the Hightstown First Aid building, 168 Bank St.
