The meeting’s primary focus was on the substantial financial and logistical challenges posed by new regulations from the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP), which require upgrades to the borough’s leaf composting facility to effectively manage stormwater runoff. A representative named Andy Hippol explained that the compliance would necessitate capturing and treating stormwater, incurring costs estimated at approximately one million dollars. This would also result in a significant reduction of the facility’s operational area.

Julie, a council member, raised questions about the financial implications of retrofitting the existing facility versus outsourcing leaf disposal. The cost of shipping leaves to external facilities was estimated at around $200,000 annually, in contrast to the one-time upgrade costs and ongoing annual maintenance expenses for stormwater treatment, which could range from $50,000 to $250,000.

Residents expressed concerns about the potential increase in truck traffic if the borough decided to outsource leaf disposal. One resident estimated that about a thousand trucks could travel through town over the season, posing safety risks for children and increasing road wear. The council agreed to investigate the routes these trucks would take to mitigate potential hazards.

Another resident emphasized the benefits of maintaining a local composting site, noting its successful management over the years. They raised concerns about the bidding process for the composting project. The resident referenced a notice of violation received nearly a year earlier for minor issues at the composting site, arguing that these did not justify abandoning the in-house composting approach.

The council also deliberated on the possibility of outsourcing the management of the compost site to a private company, assessing labor costs, and exploring shared services agreements with neighboring towns. The need for more clarity from the NJDEP about the costs associated with maintaining the compost site was highlighted, with suggestions to invite a DEP representative to provide firsthand information.

In other discussions, the council addressed the renovation of Grove Street Park, with UD Kinder Contracting awarded the contract. The park will be closed starting September 30th for approximately four months, with a suggestion to use the code red notification system to inform the community about the closure. The council also discussed the nearing completion of a new pickleball court and the progress of the salt dome project, debating renovation versus complete replacement.

Traffic improvements were another focal point, with the council noting that the timing of traffic lights at the intersection of Clinton and Dean had not been updated since 1968. Adjustments to these traffic lights were expected to improve traffic flow and pedestrian safety. Additionally, the council received updates on various projects, including the Pont J bump outs and the interim road closure on Pomont Road.

Community concerns extended to noise pollution from the Teterboro Air Route and gas-powered leaf blowers, with residents urging the council to implement limits to enhance the quality of life, especially for those working from home. The council was also informed about a $1.6 million federal grant aimed at environmental improvement projects, specifically for snagging and clearing stormwater management systems.

Further discussions involved the revitalization of Roosevelt Common Pond, which has deteriorated due to neglect. Suggestions included removing excess vegetation and restoring the pond’s edges to improve its aesthetic and ecological function.

The council also passed several ordinances, such as amending the bamboo regulation within the borough’s general ordinances and prohibiting stopping or standing during certain hours on specified streets.

Finally, the meeting highlighted various community initiatives, including the Environmental Commission’s composting program, which has successfully removed over 18,000 pounds of food waste from landfills, and the thriving senior center with 604 members. The council expressed gratitude for a significant furniture donation from the Sver family and discussed future plans for pedestrian safety and traffic improvements.