The council unveiled plans to address speed limit inconsistencies between Little Falls and neighboring Cedar Grove. The current speed limit on Ridge Road is 40 mph in Cedar Grove, dropping to 25 mph as motorists enter Little Falls. To enhance road safety and provide clarity for drivers, Little Falls aims to align speed limits in collaboration with Cedar Grove’s business administrator, potentially reducing the limit to 30 mph or 25 mph. This initiative is part of a broader effort to standardize traffic regulations, a move described as long overdue. The council expressed optimism about progressing this matter further in upcoming discussions.

Simultaneously, the council tackled the complex issue of affordable housing mandates. Little Falls, along with 29 other New Jersey municipalities, is involved in litigation challenging these requirements. The lawsuit, which could cost Little Falls $20,000 in divided payments, addresses the mandate for 285 affordable housing units, necessitating the construction of approximately 1,900 apartments. The council reviewed the financial and structural implications of this mandate but did not report any new developments from the ongoing lawsuit.

Public health initiatives took center stage, with discussions led by health department representatives. A presentation is scheduled for February to review the annual report, which includes inspections of retail food establishments and daycare facilities. The department highlighted efforts to monitor respiratory illnesses and reported an uptick in RSV cases among young children. Vaccination rates remain a concern, with public fatigue contributing to challenges in maintaining levels for flu, RSV, and COVID-19 vaccines. Conspiracy theories, such as those alleging interference by the Chinese Communist Party, have exacerbated vaccine hesitancy, prompting calls for better public health education.

The health department’s outreach extends to community partnerships, notably with local churches, to provide care packages for the homeless during the winter months. A “Code Blue” protocol is in place for extreme cold. The department’s initiatives include launching a Facebook page for updates and a podcast titled “Clifton Health on Air,” featuring interviews on various health topics. In schools, mindfulness programs target stress and anxiety management among third graders. Recent and upcoming events include a well-attended Alzheimer’s presentation, a wellness program for seniors, and a breast cancer awareness event.

Norman Shera, a resident, expressed his gratitude during public comments, praising efforts to establish a public health committee in Little Falls. This initiative, spearheaded by Councilwoman Jayna Patel, aims to enhance local health services. Shera highlighted ongoing recruitment efforts for the committee, emphasizing a collaborative approach to improving public health access.

The council also addressed tax appeal settlements, recognizing them as an unavoidable aspect of protecting town interests. Properties like a vacant Walgreens have prompted appeals, but the council noted the effectiveness of their legal representation in these matters. The meeting also saw approval for the Unico Pake Valley community event scheduled for March and the adoption of an ordinance amending stormwater management regulations.

Community engagement was further encouraged through updates on local events. The Little Falls PBA’s annual “Breakfast with Santa” is set for Saturday morning, free for residents. Additional events include a Polish Cultural Christmas gathering, a therapy dog reading session, and a holiday cookbook club meeting at the local library. Residents were invited to participate in the “Light Up Little Falls” holiday decorating contest, with voting deadlines approaching.

The Little Falls Police Department received recognition for traffic safety efforts, earning a community award from Triple A. This accolade reflects ongoing work by the traffic department and transportation committee to enhance safety, including proposed speed limit reductions on county roads. The council expressed appreciation for these efforts, while acknowledging room for continued improvements.