While each of the Atlantic Highlands council members gives extraordinary reports at council meetings of all that’s been going on within their respective committees each month, it’s Councilman James Murphy’s reports that are most in depth and in detail, actually keeping the public informed of all that is going on in the departments which he oversees.
As an example, at the other night’s meeting of the governing body, Council members Lori Hohenleitner and Brian Dougherty had nothing to report, Councilman Brian Boms said he had nothing to report, but did mention the planning board had cancelled its scheduled meeting last week because a lack of completed applications, and a about the upcoming fund raiser. Jon Crowley reported briefly, though enthusiastically, about the EM radio site soon to be a realty, Steve Boracchia give a brief report on the Harbor Commission and the impact of the high gas prices there, but nonetheless the harbor should fare better this year than last.
But Councilman Murphy had a page full of details on the first aid, recreation committee and the Public Works Department, keeping the public well informed of how busy all were this month as well as reporting on the success of events including the Halloween house decorating contest and parade. He said he was leaving updates on the police and fire departments to the other council members to report.
So Murphy reported and it was nice for the public to know the first aid responded to 20 calls during October, and another 12 already in November. It’s important for people to know the squad has answered 234 calls this year, a fact that might stimulate more interest in someone becoming a squad volunteer or perhaps contributing funds to help them. He urged residents to “give a smile and a handshake” to Tim Farkas, Mike Berth, Ann Schoeller, Amanda Stolte, John Wilson and Chief Lance Hubeny for being the call leaders for the month.
He reported on the success of the community CPR training class and cited the annual food drive and the Santa Runs which will run from Dec. 5 through Dec.8, directing residents to the squad’s Facebook page for information and how to make donations. He put out the e-mail address, info@ahfirstaid.org for anyone who wants membership information.
Murphy addressed the recreation activities by summing up the success of the Halloween events, as well as reminding parents recreation basketball signups are open until Dec. 4, giving prices, and once again, urging residents to visit www.ahnj.com and check out all information and registration for recreational activities. He announced the annual tree lighting ceremony Dec. 3 and deferred to Mayor Loretta Gluckstein for the most recent update on activities planned for the event.
When it came to the Public Works Department, Murphy reiterated their busy schedule, announced leaf pick-up, organized by zone, is on schedule, and there will be no more brush pick-up for the year, but announcing when the yard is open for drop-offs. He cautioned everyone to be aware of the heavy rain event predicted for this week. He reminded residents that DPW Director Jimmy Phillips is always ready, willing and capable in answering any questions concerning the department, its schedules, and the work it does.
A lengthy, thorough report. A lot to absorb in a single meeting but all information the public has a right to know. Perhaps council members should consider putting their monthly reports on the borough page so residents can read what they want, absorb what they need to, and have the opportunity to be kept informed about events, people and places going on in town.
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