The Borough Brief

The Borough Brief is a local newsletter that breaks down Mendham Borough Council meetings, resolutions, and ordinances in clear and simple terms, while also explaining how local government works so residents can stay informed about what is happening in town. Presented by Councilmember Matthew Bruin and Councilmember Alex Henry Traut.

PLEASE NOTE: This newsletter is intended to share information and context about local government and community issues. It is not an official Borough communication.

Matthew Bruin Matthew Bruin

The Borough Brief: 05/20/2026

Read the latest Borough Brief. The issue summarizes recent council actions in a simple, easy to follow format and continues the effort to make local government more transparent and accessible to residents. We also discuss the difference between a Borough form of government and a Township for of government.

Read More
Matthew Bruin Matthew Bruin

The Borough Brief: 05/06/2026

Read the latest Borough Brief covering Ironia Road improvements, Cary Barn and Phoenix House preservation projects, seasonal DPW hiring, recycling resources, and an explanation of how property taxes are calculated in Mendham Borough. Stay informed on local government decisions, upcoming summer events, and community updates.The issue also summarizes recent council actions in a simple, easy to follow format and continues the effort to make local government more transparent and accessible to residents.

Read More
Matthew Bruin Matthew Bruin

The Borough Brief: 04/15/2026

This issue of The Borough Brief focuses on the 2026 Mendham Borough budget, explaining how it is introduced and adopted, what is driving costs, and how it compares to prior years. It breaks down the cap ordinance, clarifying that it allows flexibility beyond the 2% limit but does not automatically raise taxes. The issue also summarizes recent council actions in a simple, easy to follow format and continues the effort to make local government more transparent and accessible to residents.

Read More
Matthew Bruin Matthew Bruin

The Borough Brief: 04/01/2026

This week’s Borough Brief breaks down key Council actions, including historic preservation grant applications, the appointment of a Humane Law Enforcement Officer, and authorization to file tax appeals. We also take a closer look at statutory positions required by New Jersey law and what they mean for how our local government operates.

Read More
Matthew Bruin Matthew Bruin

The Borough Brief: 03/18/2026

At this week’s Mendham Borough Council meeting, the 2026 municipal budget was officially introduced, beginning the state-mandated review process ahead of the April 15 public hearing. This issue of The Borough Brief breaks down what that means, along with key resolutions including budget transfers, public safety leadership, day camp fees, and IT services. We also explain how the local budget process works and how residents can stay informed and involved.

Read More
Matthew Bruin Matthew Bruin

The Borough Brief: 03/04/2026

At the March 4th meeting Mendham Borough Council recently tabled two ordinances for further review, including the proposed Snow and Ice Removal Requirements and the Bernardsville Road Affordable Housing Overlay Zone. The meeting also included a presentation from Mendham Area Senior Housing regarding grant funding for emergency generators, along with an overview of New Jersey affordable housing legislation and how it impacts local planning. This issue of The Borough Brief explains what these discussions mean for residents and what steps may come next.

Read More
Matthew Bruin Matthew Bruin

The Borough Brief: 02/18/2026

The February 18 Council meeting included several important actions and discussions affecting the Borough. Highlights include approval of new playground equipment for the Botti Field expansion, updates to recreation facility policies, and progress on key capital and infrastructure initiatives. The Council also introduced and reviewed several affordable housing ordinances and awarded contracts for upcoming improvement projects. Read the full summary below and review the complete Council packet for a deeper dive into the items discussed and actions taken.

Read More
Matthew Bruin Matthew Bruin

The Borough Brief: 02/04/2026

This issue of the Borough Brief recaps recent Borough Council actions, including steps to improve playground equipment through a state grant, updates on public safety and sewer capacity decisions, and the start of the process to hire a new Chief of Police. It also previews upcoming zoning ordinances and offers a brief explanation of how Borough government functions and what residents can expect next.

Read More
Matthew Bruin Matthew Bruin

The Borough Brief: 01/22/2026

This issue of the Borough Brief recaps key actions taken by the Borough Council, including updates on shared municipal court services and the review of recycling and bulk waste contracts. It also explains the difference between resolutions and ordinances and breaks down what these decisions mean for residents and what to expect next.

Read More