The initiative involves reaching out to the 186 individuals currently receiving veterans deductions on their property taxes in River Edge through letters and an application process available on the borough’s website. The cost for each banner is estimated at $200, which includes the banner and necessary mounting hardware. The program will rely on the borough’s maintenance team for installation and removal. Banners are expected to last three to four years, with discussions around future funding and maintenance logistics to sustain the program beyond its initial implementation.

The banners will feature a design that includes swords, stripes, and the text “River Edge Hometown Heroes.” Veterans can choose to include medals and honors on the banners, with options for those without a photo to use a silhouetted representation. A retired army colonel will assist in vetting applications to ensure that only qualified combat veterans are honored, requiring veterans to submit a DD214 form for verification.

The council engaged in a thorough discussion about the logistics and costs associated with the program, comparing it to similar efforts in neighboring towns like Cliffside Park and Rochelle Park, which charge comparable fees. The council expressed strong support for the proposal, recognizing its potential benefits for the community.

In another discussion, the council addressed ongoing drainage issues affecting residents, particularly around Lake View Street. Residents raised concerns about stormwater runoff exacerbated by new construction, leading to flooding in yards and basements. A borough representative named Jason provided clarification, noting that the increased water flow overwhelms the existing swell designed to manage runoff. The borough’s limited access to private properties hinders effective management of the runoff, prompting calls for further consideration of the issue.

The council also dealt with personnel matters, approving a salary increase for a Department of Public Works employee who completed his Commercial Driver’s License requirement and accepting resignations within the police department. Additionally, the council approved expenditures across various funds and celebrated the borough’s success in an annual best practices inventory, which secured full state aid payments.

Updates on capital construction projects included ongoing paving works and infrastructure improvements. The council highlighted upcoming ADA improvements and a stormwater management system project at Brookside Park, both on schedule for completion by the end of October.

Community engagement efforts were also discussed, with the council noting the success of a recent document shredding and recycling event organized by the Department of Public Works. Plans for a similar event next year were announced, along with an upcoming tree planting initiative set for October 21. The council emphasized the importance of these initiatives in fostering community involvement and environmental sustainability.

The meeting concluded with acknowledgments of various departments’ efforts in managing disruptions caused by roadwork and maintenance, as well as expressions of gratitude for the police and fire departments’ quick response to a recent incident involving a broken pipe. The council also promoted an upcoming library program and the final farmers market of the season, recognizing the hard work of the Farmers Market Committee throughout the year.