The council’s most notable action was the approval of Ordinance 25-18, which updates the borough’s tree ordinance to enhance canopy preservation. This ordinance introduces a refundable bond requirement for the removal of trees on private property. The New Jersey Division of Environmental Protection mandates the ordinance, and the Department of Public Works (DPW) is responsible for its administration.

Another topic discussed was the proclamation of Diwali, introduced by a council member. The proclamation outlined Diwali’s cultural significance, emphasizing its celebration across various faiths and its importance to the Indian American community in Bergen County. The council officially designated October 18th through October 22nd as the days of Diwali, with October 20th recognized as Diwali Day. Community members shared their appreciation for the recognition, with one resident noting how Diwali fosters a sense of community and family, particularly for those without immediate relatives nearby. Another resident shared personal anecdotes, illustrating Diwali’s role in connecting diverse communities within River Edge.

Following these major agenda items, the council addressed several ordinances and resolutions. Ordinances 2515 through 2518, previously introduced for a first reading, were discussed. Ordinance 2515 updates apartment inspection requirements, while Ordinance 2516 raises child care center inspection fees for the first time in 25 years. Ordinance 2517 adjusts various health permit fees by approximately 25%. The council held public comment sessions for these ordinances, but no public input was recorded, and all were passed unanimously without debate.

Additionally, the council reviewed resolutions 25-255 through 25-266, which included the payment of bills. A finance chair detailed expenditures, such as a $2,482,195.56 allocation to the current fund and $328,880.50 to the general capital fund. The council approved these resolutions as a block, with one member recusing themselves from voting on recreation-related bills.

In new business, the council considered replacing an electronic sign with a static one. Three options were discussed, with the council leaning toward the least expensive option priced at $15,900, which involves in-house labor by the DPW for construction. The council unanimously approved the motion to proceed with the sign installation.

The meeting also touched on a grant opportunity from the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection, offering up to $300,000 for developing a regional resilience plan. A representative from the Environmental Protection Commission highlighted the tight deadline for the application, which posed challenges due to the borough’s current obligations, particularly regarding ongoing stormwater permit work. Despite the missed opportunity, the council expressed interest in exploring the grant in future cycles and intended to investigate why their grant consultant had not previously identified this opportunity.