The meeting began with a focus on the ongoing odor issues, which have become a concern for residents and council members alike. A resident voiced dissatisfaction with the explanations provided by the sewer authority and emphasized that the odor, which they believe originates from a mulch pad rather than the nearby diner, permeates the town and impacts businesses. This sentiment was echoed by a council member who, after experiencing the smell in their own home, questioned the sewer authority’s assertion that the odor was not sewage-related. The council member called for a more aggressive approach to resolving the issue and mentioned that state senator Holly Shapey was working on a pilot program for sewage smoke remediation that could potentially help Waldwick. They also suggested organizing a town hall to inform residents about the efforts being taken to address water quality issues, particularly brown water complaints.

Transitioning to the introduction of Bruno Associates, the firm was brought on to enhance the borough’s efforts in securing grants. Representatives Joe and Rob of Bruno Associates outlined their initial work with the borough, highlighting applications submitted for municipal aid related to Hudson Avenue and ongoing projects targeting Safe Streets to Transit initiatives. They emphasized their role in supporting the borough’s administrative staff by streamlining grant management and reporting processes. The conversation with the council revealed a keen interest in improving accessibility at Borough Park, with a focus on involving the Access for All group to ensure that pathways to baseball fields are wheelchair-accessible.

Bruno Associates also discussed potential grant opportunities to improve drinking water infrastructure and implement traffic calming measures. A council member expressed interest in grants for installing sidewalks and signage in high-traffic areas, to which the representatives responded positively. The representatives explained that federal grants typically take six to eight months for a response after submission, emphasizing the importance of early application to align with the borough’s budget cycle.

In the broader context of the meeting, various council members reported on recent activities and initiatives. The Mayor spoke about his participation in community events, including school graduations and a chamber of commerce meeting. A collaboration with the Access for All committee was noted, focusing on enhancing handicap accessibility in upcoming projects. Financial strategies were also discussed, with a council member emphasizing the need to reduce dependency on surplus funds through increased grant funding, expanding the tax base, and exploring non-tax revenue options.

Further reports highlighted the successful running of the junior police program and the fire department’s fireball raffle, alongside the activities of the ambulance corps during community events. Maintenance issues at the ambulance corps and plans for preventative maintenance across borough buildings were also mentioned.

The administrative representative announced awards for improvements to Lions Memorial Playground and Schuler Avenue, alongside the appointment of a new full-time dispatcher. The council also authorized several grant applications for future funding opportunities, including for local transportation projects and municipal aid for Hudson Avenue.

Routine matters addressed during the meeting included the approval of pavilion use requests for various family events, all involving the serving of alcoholic beverages. Additionally, the council endorsed the housing element and fair share plan to maintain immunity from legal challenges related to housing obligations. Amendments to the Waldo Volunteer Fire Department bylaws and insurance policy renewals were also approved.

In closing, the council addressed concerns regarding the redevelopment webpage and the status of the Harrison Avenue project, with a proposal to include video clips of related presentations. The council member praised the new Chase Bank’s impact but highlighted issues with a nearby gas station, prompting a response that the zoning official is monitoring the situation. Public comments included inquiries about data collected from a radar tracker and the financial implications of potential pilot programs, urging transparency and community involvement in redevelopment discussions.