The proposed garbage can ordinance, which aims to regulate the storage of trash bins, drew significant criticism from residents and council members alike. Multiple residents expressed frustration over the ordinance’s lack of consideration for properties with steep inclines or limited accessibility from the street. Matthew Gilson, who resides on Orient Way, highlighted the difficulty of maneuvering trash bins up a steep 22-step incline to his home. He urged the council to consider exceptions for properties with significant elevation changes, seeking clarity on whether such exceptions would be possible in future discussions. Julia Seagull, another resident, echoed these sentiments, noting that many homes in the area store bins in front due to practical constraints, which the ordinance fails to address.

Frank Wilson, representing residents from Montro, voiced relief at the council’s decision to rescind the ordinance, particularly considering the challenges it posed for seniors. He criticized the ordinance’s focus on aesthetics and supported more accessible staging options for trash bins. Council members shared these concerns, emphasizing the ordinance’s potential to disadvantage residents without adequate storage options and the safety risks associated with moving large bins, particularly for seniors and individuals with disabilities. There was a consensus among council members that the ordinance needed to be revisited, with some suggesting deferring further discussions until input could be gathered from the council member who originally proposed the changes.

The proposed LED billboard by Luke Oil on Route 17 also sparked debate. Resident David Schneider from Eastern Way criticized the plan, describing the existing billboard across from his residence as a nuisance due to light pollution. He expressed disbelief at the proposed billboard’s height and urged the council to consider the implications for community standards and safety. Schneider referred to the 2007 master plan’s recommendations for aggressive code enforcement against light pollution, emphasizing the need for proactive measures to prevent further issues.

In response to these concerns, the council acknowledged the need for careful consideration of community feedback when drafting and enforcing ordinances. Members expressed gratitude for the public’s input, recognizing that understanding residents’ lived experiences is important for informed decision-making.

As the meeting progressed, the council addressed several other topics, including updates on ongoing engineering projects. The engineer’s report detailed the completion of construction on Diamond 4 and the paving of Veterans Boulevard. Future plans include the 2025 road program, pending Department of Transportation approval, and the continuation of last year’s road program with scheduled concrete crew work.

The condition of roads following utility work was another issue raised by a resident, who suggested requiring utility companies to deposit funds in escrow to cover repaving costs. The borough administrator explained existing measures, including a five-year moratorium that requires utility companies to repave any opened sections during this period. However, the administrator noted that escrow funding was not feasible due to regulations set by the Board of Public Utilities.

The council also discussed public safety initiatives, including plans to install two stop signs on Vandenberg Avenue to address aggressive driving. In relation to community events, a council member encouraged participation in the summer mixology event supporting the 55 Kip Center, which serves seniors in the area. Congratulations were extended to Rutherford High School for their varsity sports awards dinner, and residents were reminded about the upcoming graduation ceremony for the class of 2025.

Additionally, the council celebrated the inauguration of a new stadium for Rutherford Little League softball players. A council member expressed pride in the project’s completion, noting its significance as a community gathering place that fosters spirit and excitement around the sport.