The water management discussion was a focal point as it referenced the establishment of a temporary treatment facility in collaboration with Viola to address PFOS contamination. The council is also looking forward to the construction of a permanent facility to secure long-term water safety. PFOS, or perfluorooctanesulfonic acid, is a persistent environmental pollutant, and its presence in water supplies has become a issue for municipalities across the country.

The topic of sewer capacity took on a particular urgency during the meeting. The new development in Saddle River is expected to put additional pressure on the current sewer infrastructure. The council expressed concerns over whether the existing pipes could handle the anticipated increase in sewage volume.

Public safety also garnered attention during the meeting, with the Public Safety Committee reporting on a variety of activities. These included conversations between AVAC Chief Butaro and a local nursing home, the Fire Department securing a grant for critical equipment, and a presentation by the Bergen County prosecutor’s office to eighth graders on the dangers of fentanyl.

Further to these concerns, the meeting covered negotiations regarding the sale of a utility. The council is involved in discussions about easements and historical issues. The prospective sale of this utility could potentially have long-standing implications for the borough’s infrastructure and financial health.

In addition to infrastructure and safety, the council discussed the potential development of a newly acquired property into a community center. The discussions included the negotiation process and the potential impacts of affordable housing requirements set to take effect in 2025.

The council also addressed various community events and initiatives aimed at engaging residents and improving the borough. The upcoming spring cleaning day on April 27th, the preparations for which were discussed, is an example of the council’s efforts to involve the community in local governance and upkeep.

Another community-focused topic was the dedication for the acceptance of donations for the Allen mural project. Additionally, the council gave updates on community projects, including an Armed Forces Day event and town hall meetings intended to heighten transparency and foster dialogue with community organizations.

The meeting attendees were informed about the Finance Department’s progress on the 2024 budget and the tax collector’s initiative to implement online auto-pay for tax payments.

The Department of Public Works (DPW) supervisor reported on the department’s readiness for the sports season, pothole repairs, and the opening of the compost site.

Legal matters were not overlooked, with discussions on negotiations with various unions and involvement with affordable housing units and cell tower leases. Furthermore, the council reviewed the annual audit, upcoming projects, and personnel changes within the borough, which are indicative of the council’s oversight of financial and administrative health.

The meeting also noted the departure of a valued employee, although specific details were not provided in the summary.

Public comments during the meeting included inquiries about the logistics of the community cleanup day and the involvement of the Green Team, an indication of active resident participation in borough affairs.