The Borough Brief: 02/04/2026
Save the Date!
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Coffee With the Council
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Saturday, 3/21
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Save the Date! 〰️ Coffee With the Council 〰️ Saturday, 3/21 〰️
Dear Mendham Neighbors,
Over the past two weeks, many of you have reached out with questions and concerns about snow removal. When an issue generates that level of resident feedback, it’s a signal that it deserves careful discussion and, if necessary, action.
At this past meeting, Council discussed snow removal operations and whether changes are needed, including the potential introduction of an ordinance to clarify responsibilities and expectations. As a next step, the Public Safety Subcommittee will work with Borough professionals to draft a proposed ordinance for Council’s review. We will share details and the public hearing date once it is scheduled.
Many residents have also reached out after reading the Mayor’s recent note in the Mendham Messenger regarding the Sisters of Christian Charity property. As part of the Borough’s Fourth Round affordable housing obligations, zoning ordinances related to this plan are currently scheduled to be introduced at the February 18 Council meeting, with a public hearing planned for March 4. We encourage residents to stay engaged as this process moves forward.
As always, this issue of The Borough Brief breaks down what Council acted on, why it matters, and what happens next, along with a deeper look at how Mendham’s form of government is structured to make these decisions.
With appreciation,
Councilmember Alexandra Henry Traut
Councilmember Matthew Bruin
PLEASE NOTE: This newsletter is intended to share information and context about local government and community issues. It is not an official Borough communication.
The Breakdown
The Breakdown is a recurring series where we explain important resolutions and ordinances that come before the Borough Council. Each issue will break down what was proposed, what was decided, why it matters, and what happens next in clear and straightforward terms. Full agendas and minutes are available on the Borough website.
Resolution #043-2026 & #044-2026: Fire Department Appointments
What happened: Approved the appointments of Aidan Walker and Clayton J. Borchard IV as probationary members of the Mendham Borough Fire Department.
Why it matters: These appointments support the continued strength and readiness of our volunteer fire department, which plays a critical role in public safety.
What’s next: Both individuals will begin their probationary service and training with the Fire Department. Thank you for your service, Aidan and Clayton!
Resolution #045-2026: Sewage Capacity Allocation (63A & 63B East Main Street)
What it was: Approved an application to reserve allocated sewage capacity for two existing residential dwellings at 63A & 63B East Main Street.
Why it matters: Sewer capacity is finite and tightly regulated. Council approval is required before connections can be made to ensure the system can handle demand.
What happens next: The reserved capacity allows the applicant to proceed through the remaining permitting and approval process.
Resolution #046-2026: Recreation Improvement Grant Application
What it was: Authorized the Borough to apply for a Local Recreation Improvement Grant (up to ~$75,000) to enhance playground equipment at the Borough park.
Why it matters: Grant funding helps offset local costs while investing in community amenities that benefit families and children.
What happens next: The application will be submitted to the state; if awarded, Council will act on accepting the funds and moving the project forward.
Resolution #047-2026: Chief of Police Posting
What it was: Council authorized the Borough Administrator to formally post the position of Chief of Police, in accordance with the promotional process outlined in the Borough Code.
Why it matters: This is the required first step in filling the Chief of Police position and ensures the process follows established local law and internal promotional guidelines.
What happens next: The position will be posted as required by ordinance, allowing eligible candidates to apply and move forward in the promotional process.
Upcoming Council Business
Zoning ordinances tied to Mendham Borough’s Fourth Round affordable housing plan are expected to be introduced on February 18. A public hearing is currently scheduled for March 4
Government, Explained
Government Explained is a recurring series where we take time to explain how local government works in simple terms. Each issue will focus on a different topic we believe will be helpful for residents, breaking down the process, roles, and decisions so it is easier to understand what is happening and why it matters. A lot of the questions we hear from residents come down to process. Why something happened when it did, why certain discussions aren’t public yet, or who is responsible for what. Understanding how local government works can help distinguish between a true lack of transparency and legal or procedural requirements that guide how and when decisions are made.
This Month’s Topic: Borough Form of Government
TL;DR: In Mendham’s Borough form of government, the Council sets policy and passes laws, while the Mayor presides over meetings, votes only to break ties, and provides oversight, making it a “strong council / weak mayor” system designed to prioritize collective decision-making.
Mendham Borough operates under the Borough form of municipal government, the most common form used in New Jersey. In this system, residents elect a Mayor and a six-member Borough Council, all at large in partisan elections. The Mayor serves a four-year term, and Council members serve staggered three-year terms so that two seats are up for election each year.
Under this structure, Mendham has what’s often called a “weak mayor / strong council” form of government:
The Council is the legislative body, responsible for passing ordinances, resolutions, and local policy.
The Mayor presides over Council meetings and votes only in the event of a tie.
The Mayor also has veto power over ordinances, but the Council can override a veto with a two-thirds vote.
The Mayor makes appointments of subordinate officers with the advice and consent of the Council.
This structure is designed to ensure that most governing decisions reflect the collective will of the people’s representatives, promoting checks and balances between the Mayor and the Council.
Looking Ahead
We hope you will join us for our next Coffee with the Council on Saturday, March 21. Please mark your calendars. The exact time is still to be determined and will be shared soon.
These informal gatherings are a great opportunity to ask questions, share concerns, and have open conversations with your elected officials in a relaxed setting outside of a formal meeting. We look forward to connecting with residents and continuing the conversation.
In the meantime, please feel free to reach out to us with any questions or concerns. Our contact information is listed below.
How to Stay Engaged
📅 Next Council Meeting: February 18th, 2026 @ The Garabrant Center | 4 Wilson Street, Mendham
📧 Reach Out: atraut@mendhamnj.org | mbruin@mendhamnj.org
🗣️ Get Involved: Attend a meeting or reach out if you have questions, concerns, or ideas you’d like to see covered in future newsletters.
📱 Follow Us on Facebook & Instagram: Stay up to date with news, reminders, and community updates.
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This newsletter is intended to share information and context about local government and community issues. It is not an official Borough communication.
