A significant portion of the council meeting was dedicated to addressing ongoing concerns about traffic and pedestrian safety within Garwood, with specific attention to the rising use of e-bikes and associated parking issues. The council acknowledged these challenges and discussed potential updates to the borough code to better manage them. Recommendations from the police committee are anticipated in subsequent meetings, which will offer a clearer path forward in enhancing safety measures for both drivers and pedestrians. These efforts come amidst broader planning initiatives to assess traffic patterns and safety concerns, a project being developed with the help of Harbor Consultants.

Simultaneously, the council announced a call for artists to submit proposals for a mural entitled “Garwood Then and Now.” This initiative is aimed at enhancing the borough’s aesthetic appeal while reflecting its history and future aspirations. The selected artist will be compensated through grants. The project is a part of a broader effort to invest in community spaces and galvanize local culture.

Community engagement was further highlighted with the announcement of several upcoming events. A Halloween parade and costume contest were detailed, set to take place on Halloween night. The parade will start at 7:00 p.m. at Borough Hall, followed by the contest at Lincoln School Gym. Prizes will be awarded to the winners, and the deadline for the Halloween decorating contest was noted, with gift cards as rewards. Looking forward to November, a holiday tree lighting event is scheduled for November 29th, featuring food trucks, entertainment, vendors, and an appearance by Santa Claus. A family skate night is also planned for the same evening, promising a festive start to the holiday season.

Recreational programs were another focal point, with registration now open for a winter sports youth basketball program catering to grades 1 through 8. The program, costing $90, is set to commence practices in early December, with games slated for January and February. The council called for volunteer coaches to support the initiative. Additional recreational offerings include cheer and dance classes for young children and several adult programs ranging from open play sports to arts and crafts workshops.

In addition to these community-focused topics, the council provided updates on other ongoing matters. The Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) application process was discussed, focusing on its role in securing federal funding to support senior services. The council expressed hope for increased funding to accommodate rising costs. The Department of Public Works was thanked for its seasonal landscaping efforts, and progress was reported on pedestrian safety measures, including the installation of beacons on Center Street.

The council also addressed ongoing development concerns, particularly the litigation involving Garden Homes’ proposal for increased housing density. Borough professionals are preparing arguments for an upcoming court date.

During the public comment section, a resident raised questions about the $90 fee for the youth basketball program, suggesting it seemed high, especially given the reliance on volunteer coaches. The response clarified that the fee covers various costs, including uniforms, coaching training, and security, and has remained unchanged for several years. The resident also inquired about the tax status of a local paperboard company, which is reportedly paying taxes despite being vacant.