Development News for Phillipsburg, New Jersey

Phillipsburg Council Tables Ordinance to Restructure Economic and Community Development Divisions, Including UEZ Program

Ordinance 2026-16, concerning amendments to Chapter 5, Article 8 of the town code regarding administration of government, was discussed. The ordinance aims to unify community development and economic development into a single division, specifically to structure the Urban Enterprise Zone (UEZ) program. Concerns were raised about the specific programs envisioned under this division and the safeguards for an advisory board. Councilman Minister explained the genesis of the ordinance stemmed from the dissolution of the Phillipsburg Economic Development Corporation and the town taking over the UEZ program. The proposed advisory board would include the mayor, council president, two business owners, and the UEZ coordinator, meeting at least bi-monthly to make recommendations to the council. After extensive discussion, a motion was made to table the ordinance to allow for further review and learning [cite: 335-337, 344-347, 349, 351-356, 358-361, 363-365, 367-370, 372-376, 378-386, 389-390, 392-398, 403-407, 409-410, 412-414, 417-422, 427-429, 431-435].

Phillipsburg Town Council Adopts Proclamation Affirming Human Rights and Belonging for All Residents

Council Vice President Clark read a proclamation affirming human rights, equal dignity, and belonging for all residents of Phillipsburg. The proclamation emphasizes that Phillipsburg is home to diverse individuals and families, and all residents deserve to feel safe, respected, and fully part of the community, regardless of their background. It calls for public discourse to be conducted with care, honesty, and respect, and for the town to be a place where no one feels invisible, unwelcome, or afraid [cite: 124-125, 128-131, 133-135, 137-141, 144-148, 155-157, 159-163].

Phillipsburg Police Department Updates Focus on Community Policing and Enhanced Enforcement

Chief McDonough provided a comprehensive update on the Phillipsburg Police Department, highlighting initiatives to strengthen community policing, improve traffic enforcement, and modernize technology. The department is launching a pilot program for a dedicated traffic unit, installing mobile data terminals in patrol vehicles, and preparing to deploy its drone program. Significant emphasis has been placed on department-wide training, officer wellness, and physical fitness, leading to increased productivity and reduced sick time. The chief also thanked the mayor, council, and residents for their support [cite: 58-93].