By Joseph L. Kuchie

– SOUTH AMBOY – Sidewalk repairs as well as trash and garbage storage were two big discussion points at last week’s South Amboy business meeting.

Councilwoman Zusette Dato began the discussion when she asked about an area at the end of John Street. She explained that workers put asphalt where bricks should be and it was not “aesthetically pleasing” for the typically beautiful space.

Business Administrator Camille Tooker said she was not familiar that they put asphalt but told Dato that she would look into the matter.

“I think what happened was that they were out plugging holes and they probably made a misjudgment…it should not be asphalt,” Tooker said. “I will let them know that has to be changed.”

Following Dato was Councilwoman Christine Noble, who asked Tooker when applications for exterior grants would be taken in town. Tooker explained that residents could begin looking for those applications in late August and the funding would begin in September.

“The funding should become available in September…we’re going to have something on the website soon,” Tooker said “Applications will not be ready until August. It’s important to remember it’s first come, first serve and that you must have a code violation.”

Councilmen Mickey Gross raised questions about the sidewalks located outside the South Amboy YMCA. He questioned what was being done about the broken sidewalks being blocked off by cones, but Tooker said that the YMCA, not the city, was responsible for fixing the area.

President Connors asked Tooker where the city was with the garbage and recyclables being left on porches and sides of houses. Tooker responded by saying those residents were receiving tickets for not properly storing their trash bins, but Connors asked to see the information.

“Can I see a list of those tickets? Because I haven’t see any improvements since we’ve talked” Connors asked. “You shouldn’t walk down the street and have to look at garbage cans.”

All council members were in attendance for the business meeting. The next city council meeting will be held on June 18th at 7:00 p.m.