The meeting also featured discussions on improving the parking situation behind the senior center. After inspections, it was determined that creating additional parking spaces could alleviate long-standing complaints about inadequate parking. Plans are underway to optimize dumpster placement, potentially adding four new parking spots. A resident during the public comment section highlighted the difficulties faced while parking in this area, which prompted acknowledgment from the council of ongoing efforts to address the issue.

The council addressed an ordinance related to recreational fires, with the public hearing yielding no comments. This led to the ordinance being adopted following a roll call vote. Additionally, a new ordinance concerning employment titles, salary ranges, and personnel policies for borough employees was introduced and approved for first reading, signaling future discussions at the next council meeting.

Public safety and municipal projects were also on the agenda. The Kenilworth Police Department reported handling 1,221 calls in October, including 178 emergency calls and 196 traffic summonses. Notable activities included a gun turn-in event and a community engagement initiative, “Coffee with a Cop.” The department also undertook extensive training, totaling 463 hours, and responded to 12 high-priority alerts, resulting in 11 arrests.

Updates from the borough engineer included progress on capital projects, with paving work near the fire department and Department of Public Works nearing completion. Attention now shifts to replacing the municipal building’s roof, funded by infrastructure money. The engineer also reported pending agreements with the gas company for sidewalk repairs, requiring written consent to proceed.

The council addressed watercourse issues along Red Maple Lane, where obstructions like fences and sheds were noted as potential contributors to flooding. Residents were advised they could remove these barriers without permits, although the borough’s ability to intervene in flood zones remains limited.

The meeting also included a proclamation regarding the postponement of installing Hometown Hero banners to Memorial Day, allowing veterans more time to provide necessary materials. Residents were reminded to register for Everbridge notifications to stay informed about community updates, emphasizing that many had not yet signed up.

In a lighter segment, the mayor expressed gratitude to veterans and acknowledged their service, announcing an event at the VFW for Veterans Day. The mayor also congratulated local youth football volunteers for expanding their program and thanked those involved in its success. Additionally, congratulations were extended to a councilman on his reelection and to an incoming council member set to join in January. As the meeting concluded, the mayor expressed appreciation for the service of outgoing members and wished the community a Happy Thanksgiving.