Mayor Amy Wilczynski officially declared September as Hunger Action Month, continuing an initiative aimed at addressing food insecurity across Bergen County. The proclamation underscored the issue of hunger, which has worsened due to financial hardships and unemployment. The Bergen County Food Security Task Force was spotlighted for its ongoing support of local food pantries. It was noted that the demand for food assistance has surged by approximately 22%. The mayor encouraged Allendale residents to contribute to local food pantries and highlighted the success of last year’s efforts, which saw Borough Hall filled with donations. A food drive will be hosted at Borough Hall throughout October to further support this cause.

Two ordinances were introduced for discussion. The first aims to amend Chapter 53 of the borough code to adjust salary wages and compensation, particularly combining the roles of the fire official with other code official duties. The second ordinance seeks to establish a business insurance registry to streamline records for businesses and landlords. Both ordinances were approved for their first reading and are scheduled for final consideration at the next council meeting on October 3, 2024.

The council also approved routine consent agenda items, including appointing new crossing guards and hiring Kevin Todd as the Chief Executive Officer inspector. Public comments were opened, during which Mark Savastano updated the council on the Green Team’s summer activities. Savastano introduced a proposal for collecting pumpkins and gourds post-Halloween to divert compostable materials from landfills. He also praised the new staff at the recycling center and reported successful recovery of EPS materials from the dumpster.

Council members shared reports on various topics. One council member noted that the end-of-season meeting for Crestwood discussed operations, membership trends, revenue, and expenditures. Gratitude was expressed for the work of Tyy Poogi, who is resigning as the events coordinator for Crestwood Lake. The opening of bids for the concession stand was anticipated soon, and thanks were given to the Department of Public Works for improving athletic fields based on feedback from the Allendale Sports Alliance.

The police department reported that two new officers had completed their training and were now patrolling the streets. Discussions included adjustments to crossing guard placements and ongoing downtown parking issues. A new police intern has joined the Office of Emergency Management.

An upcoming blood drive is scheduled for next Thursday at the firehouse from 1 to 7 p.m. The event is a collaboration with the American Red Cross, offering participants a voucher for a pint of beer, wine, or a soft drink in exchange for a pint of blood. Scouts will assist at the blood drive to encourage community participation.

The Department of Public Works (DPW) reported on several ongoing projects. Superintendent Andy Glio is managing operations effectively, with preparations underway at Crestwood Lake for the draining process and ongoing field maintenance. A new mechanic has joined the team and is acclimating well to the borough.

Clerk Linda reported on attending the New Jersey Film Ready Workshop in Trenton, which prepares municipalities for film production opportunities. Allendale will be recognized as a film-ready community, enabling access to a platform called Real Scout to promote local filming locations. The initiative aims to support local businesses and attract revenue through film production. The mayor expressed enthusiasm, citing economic benefits experienced by other municipalities.

Superintendent Andy Goera provided updates on the streetscape project, which includes enhancements to the 9/11 Memorial and has received positive community feedback. New recreational facilities such as a half football field have been established, and existing fields are being reconfigured to meet community needs. DPW is also working on decommissioning the lake and preparing for future events.

Attorney Ray West discussed ongoing matters, including the closing of the water utility sale and hiring an environmental consultant for site assessments as part of the Green Acres diversion process. Updates on affordable housing litigation were provided, with a response from the state expected by mid-October. Pending leases for a cell tower that could generate revenue were also mentioned.

The mayor highlighted efforts to enhance government transparency through community engagement initiatives, such as signing residents up for newsletters and social media updates. The third town hall meeting focused on deer management, with a significant majority of attendees expressing support for deer management strategies due to rising safety concerns and animal welfare implications from deer-related incidents.

During public comments, a resident named Walter inquired about the success of the blood drive and the function of proclamations read during meetings. It was explained that proclamations serve to honor events or individuals, providing official recognition from the borough. Walter expressed appreciation for this practice.