One notable issue discussed at the Little Falls Town Council meeting was the proposal to amend the noise ordinance to aid residents in the recovery and repair process following severe flooding in the area. Mayor Damiano underscored the necessity of this amendment, pointing out that residents had endured two floods in a mere three weeks. The council demonstrated unanimous support for this relief measure by voting to introduce ordinance 1475, which extends permissible construction hours to expedite repair work for the flood victims.

Another topic of import was the private sale of a municipal property, specifically a small lot at Jackson Street, referred to as block 225 lot 13, which a resident had been utilizing for several years. Discussions revolved around the resident’s interest in purchasing the property, which was valued at $88,500. The council moved to introduce ordinance 1476.

The meeting began with Mayor Damiano recognizing Arturo Moracho for his charitable actions during the flooding crisis. Moracho, owner of Casa Toro Bistro, was commended for providing complimentary meals to flood victims. Additionally, Mary Sella, CEO of United Way Passaic County, provided an overview of the disaster relief and recovery fund established to support those affected by the floods. Councilman Christopher Vancheri suggested leveraging the council’s communication channels to promote the fund.

During the State of the Township address, Mayor Damiano acknowledged the community’s resilience in the face of the floods and lauded the efforts of emergency services, the Department of Public Works (DPW), and residents. The mayor highlighted several achievements of 2023, such as a tax decrease and the acquisition of substantial grant funding for various township improvements. The revitalization of the former municipal building and police station, along with the cleanup of the Pekman River, were among the upcoming projects mentioned.

The council also recognized the township’s successful road resurfacing program and the diligent work of the DPW in maintaining clean roads after snowstorms. Council President Anthony Sgobba’s contributions to expanding services for senior citizens were commended, and gratitude was extended to Township employees, administrators, and volunteers for their tireless efforts.

Public hearings for Green Acres Program Grant applications were held to discuss proposed improvements at Duva Park and Amity Park. Councilwoman Christine Hablitz detailed the grants, including project costs and matching funds requirements, emphasizing the community’s opportunity to provide input on these enhancements.

Council reports included updates from Councilwoman Jayna Patel on health and legal services programs. Councilwoman Hablitz expressed appreciation for the community’s support of flood victims and highlighted library events.

Councilman Michael Murphy, participating virtually, provided updates on the town calendar and the fire department’s exemplary response to recent fires. Mayor Damiano and Chief Brian Prw discussed the necessity of a rolloff truck for waste management during emergencies and plans for a formal review of the township’s emergency response.

During the public comment period, resident Jim Doran thanked the council for their support following the floods and raised concerns about water management and the potential for dredging to alleviate sediment buildup in the river. Mayor Damiano addressed these concerns, outlining the complexities of water management and the challenges associated with dredging due to river sediment toxicity.