The SID’s presentation underscored their achievements and future objectives, including the installation of banners, improved lighting for heightened safety, and maintenance initiatives to ensure downtown cleanliness. Their strategy also involves social media outreach, holiday lighting, meter conversion, tree replacement, and the introduction of electric car charging stations. These efforts are part of a broader push to augment the downtown experience and tackle persistent parking issues.

Deliberations also encompassed landscaping, the removal of graffiti, and the upcoming anniversary banner project. Plans were set forth for seasonal banner updates and the installation of planters, with a focus on enhancing street signage for better wayfinding. Deputy Chief Matt Gelosa’s creation of a safety flyer for shop owners was recognized, and concerns about porter work schedules, the cleanliness of specific areas like the Bergen lot, and alley lighting were raised. The council acknowledged the SID’s role in upgrading parking garage lighting and addressed the broader issue of homelessness by mentioning the “arrive together” program, which involves collaboration with law enforcement and mental health professionals.

The beautification of downtown Englewood stood out in the council’s considerations, with a detailed presentation on streetscape design, featuring the introduction of Toroso’s planters and pots. The council members appreciated the efforts dedicated to the upkeep of these beautifications, which include regular watering and plant replacement. Additionally, the meeting served as a platform to schedule a public hearing on July 16th for the SID’s budget approval and to scrutinize the 125th anniversary celebration and the upcoming night market event, which Englewood Hospital is partially funding.

An important announcement plans for the city’s annual fireworks display on July 1st at Dwight Morrow High School, strategically scheduled to avoid clashing with New York City’s Independence Day festivities. Local businesses have stepped up to partially fund the event. Safety was another key topic, with the council debating the purchase of safety signs, the need for fencing repairs at various locations, and the introduction of an ordinance to create an advisory neighborhood preservation committee aimed at fair representation across wards and attention to maintenance and landscaping. The committee’s composition sparked debate, eventually leading to the decision to have two ward representatives and two at-large members, excluding the Chamber of Commerce. The mayor’s participation in the committee was also considered.

The council addressed internal matters, such as the debate over the mayor’s inclusion in the council and the appointment of a historical committee representative. Public comments brought attention to concerns like the renewal of a liquor license for a city-owned property and the request to separate two resolutions to honor Caribbean Heritage Month and the Dwight Morrow High School class of 2024.

Updates from the mayor included announcements about the heatwave, Juneteenth celebrations, Public Works schedule changes, and city planning meetings. Citywide and parks meetings were scheduled to gather input for the master plan and discuss improvements to city parks. Council members echoed the importance of community engagement in the planning meetings and recognized various upcoming events, such as Juneteenth and high school graduations. Construction projects were also highlighted, including the rebuilding of the Englewood Cliff’s substation and roadwork by Bergen County.