Following the celebration, the council moved on to discuss several key administrative matters. One significant topic was the reported 16.2% increase in health insurance rates for the upcoming year. The council is addressing this issue, seeking ways to manage the financial impact on the township budget and employees. This increase in health insurance rates is a critical concern for the council, reflecting broader trends in rising healthcare costs.

The meeting also included the introduction of an ordinance for a $56,000 grant intended for acquiring structural protective firefighting equipment. This grant, part of the New Jersey Department of Community Affairs’ firefighter grant program, had been previously discussed in prior meetings. This ordinance aims to enhance the safety and effectiveness of the township’s firefighting capabilities by providing necessary protective gear.

Additionally, the council discussed various municipal projects, including the completion of a replacement for a deteriorated metal pipe and ongoing work at Memorial Field. Maintenance of flagpoles at town hall was also addressed, along with the implementation of the tree protection and removal ordinance. Registration forms for tree contractors have been made available, and the township is considering the final adoption of an amendment to the stormwater control ordinance, which has already received conditional approval from the county.

Several resolutions were presented for discussion, including the release of maintenance guarantees for bid projects completed in 2022, specifically related to road resurfacing and improvements at a municipal site. Another resolution was introduced to formalize an agreement between the township and the football boosters concerning the payment of referee fees, streamlining the process for faster payments. A resolution for a refund related to a property was also mentioned.

In the realm of community engagement, the council discussed the upcoming National Team Cleanup scheduled for Saturday, September 21, at Wyckoff Community Park and Memorial Field. This initiative aims to engage younger participants while welcoming all community members to join in the cleanup efforts. The event will begin at 8:00 a.m. and run until 10:00 a.m., with volunteers from the Environmental Commission present to assist. A rain date was mentioned for September 28, coinciding with the scheduled fireworks event, but the cleanup is expected to conclude before the fireworks begin.

The meeting also highlighted upcoming community events, including a shredding and recycling day planned for October 18 at Community Park, starting at 9:00 a.m. The Environmental Commission is targeting a bronze certification from Sustainable New Jersey by 2025, reflecting ongoing sustainability efforts. A styrofoam container for recycling has been placed at the Department of Public Works, awaiting labeling and instructions, which are expected to be finalized shortly.

Additionally, the council addressed pedestrian safety concerns, particularly regarding speed limits on Wyckoff Avenue. The mayor noted that the council is collaborating with the county to address these safety issues, specifically mentioning a crosswalk initiative as part of the broader traffic safety review.

The meeting proceeded with acknowledgments of various community contributions and events. One council member noted attendance at various fire department meetings and mentioned an upcoming fish and chips fundraiser by the Ladies Auxiliary. Another member recounted experiences at the September 11th remembrance service, emphasizing its emotional impact and the involvement of local leaders.

A public comment period allowed a resident to inquire about the impact of speed limit reductions on Wyckoff Avenue concerning crosswalk safety. The mayor confirmed that this area is a priority for safety improvements.