Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in Sayreville public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
8 issues in taxes budget
Capital Budget and Road Funding
Two road paving contracts totaling about $2.18 million were awarded — Phase III of the 2023 program and Phase I of the 2025 program.
Remote participation (Zoom) in council meetings
A proposal to let the public and council members join meetings by Zoom failed 3-4, with Mayor O'Brien breaking the tie. Supporters called it a democracy and accessibility issue; opponents cited costs, moderation problems, and abuse clerks faced during remote meetings.
CDBG grant plan concerns
Councilwoman Novak admitted she voted for the CDBG plan without seeing the attached written plan, and questioned whether the borough's CDBG committee even exists. A resident warned putting a phantom committee in the resolution risks HUD fraud accusations.
Sewer fee shortfall and MCUA costs
Councilwoman Novak says the town can't wait any longer on water and sewer rate decisions and wants sewer rates, water rates and connection fees examined separately, noting connection fees haven't been adjusted in years.
BOE Bus Depot Litigation Settlement
Behind closed doors, the Council authorized the borough attorney to begin settling the bus depot lawsuit with the school board; the settlement resolution will be public at the next meeting.
2026 Municipal Budget introduction
The borough's 2026 budget failed to get adopted because no council member would second the adoption motion. The Mayor told the council to go back and rework it, and wants the DCA to advise on how to move forward. This could affect services and next year's tax bills if it stays unresolved.
Public Employee Health Care Cost Reform (Resolution 2026-160)
The council unanimously voted to have a resolution prepared demanding reform of health benefits — a cost issue that hits the borough budget and taxpayers.
2026 Municipal Budget and Tax Increase
The borough's 2026 budget failed to get adopted because no council member would second the adoption motion. The Mayor told the council to go back and rework it, and wants the DCA to advise on how to move forward. This could affect services and next year's tax bills if it stays unresolved.