A significant portion of the meeting focused on infrastructure improvements, specifically the awarding of contract 2025-08 to Smith Sandi Asphalt Construction for pedestrian safety upgrades on Lens Road and Spring Meadow Drive. This decision came after a competitive bidding process that saw four bids, with funding support from three New Jersey Department of Transportation grants and municipal funding covering about 25% of the total project costs. In conjunction with this, a vendor was confirmed to construct ADA-compliant curb ramps and sidewalks at Spring Meadow. This work is scheduled to be completed before the paving of Wyckoff Avenue in the spring, which is part of a broader initiative managed by Bergen County.

The council also updated on the relocation of utilities necessary for road improvements, noting that only two phone calls were required. Additionally, Ridgewood Water is working on raw water connections to the Cedar Hill treatment facility, with recent completions on Flaker and ongoing progress on James Way.

In terms of financial planning, the council addressed rising health benefit costs projected for 2026. They discussed a potential solution that could lead to reduced costs for the township by offering a high deductible option, with the township covering members’ out-of-pocket expenses.

The council voted to appoint James Shepard to fill a vacancy on the township committee until the certification of the November 26 general election results. This appointment was part of a broader discussion about filling vacancies with care and respect for past members’ contributions. There was appreciation for the collaborative effort involved in selecting the new member.

The meeting also touched on various community events and expressions of gratitude. One speaker praised the council’s role in honoring a deceased colleague, highlighting the beauty of the memorial service and the strong community support. The fire department reported 84 calls in October, contributing to a yearly total of 624 responses. Upcoming events include Santa’s arrival on December 5th and a toy donation deadline on December 13th.

Acknowledgments were extended to election staff and community partners such as the Christian Health Care Center and Cedar Hill Church for their roles in facilitating recent elections. The council expressed appreciation for the dedication of the clerk’s office and the Department of Public Works, as well as the library staff’s efforts in managing early voting.

Further discussions included the introduction of new ordinances and job descriptions. A new job description for the land use administrator was approved, expanding the role to include zoning control responsibilities. Two ordinances were introduced: one to amend stop sign intersections for a four-way stop at Clinton and Quackenbush streets, and another to update regulations concerning illuminated signs, including radar and crossing signs.

A notable tribute was made for a departed member’s funeral, with reflections on how the community came together to commemorate him. Members humorously noted that the deceased would have appreciated the traffic disruption caused by the procession, underscoring his deep connection to the community.

The meeting concluded with a focus on future planning, including a scheduled settlement conference on November 17 regarding the town’s housing element and fair share plan. Members acknowledged the complexities of this ongoing challenge and emphasized the need for thorough preparation.