One item at the meeting was the official swearing-in of Sergeant Gregory Sanchez. Mayor Jen Blumenstock officiated the ceremony, providing a detailed account of Sanchez’s background. Sanchez, a Jersey City native and Liberty High School graduate, began his law enforcement career after attending the Essex County Police Academy. He joined the Garwood Police Department in 2017, where he has served as a field training officer and internal affairs officer. During the ceremony, Sanchez pledged to uphold the Constitution and perform his duties faithfully. The mayor expressed pride in Sanchez’s accomplishments, and the event concluded with a photo opportunity for Sanchez, his family, and council members.

In a notable moment, the council recognized Councilman Marc Lazarow for his nine years of service. A proclamation honored his contributions, particularly his leadership as chair of the finance committee and his involvement in revitalizing Hartman Park. Council members and community members praised Lazarow’s integrity and dedication to fiscal responsibility. The Garwood Democratic Club, represented by Jeff Jotss, presented Lazarow with a token of appreciation, acknowledging his calm and rational presence in the political arena.

The council also celebrated Garwood’s achievement in regaining the Tree City USA designation from the Arbor Day Foundation. Council members expressed pride in meeting the program’s standards, including investing in urban forestry and celebrating Arbor Day. Plans were hinted at for installing signs and flags to mark this achievement.

A key agenda item was Resolution 25-205, which proposed a shared court arrangement with the Borough of Fanwood. This initiative, in development for nearly two years, is projected to save Garwood between $5,000 and $10,000 annually, along with additional savings in police time and administrative tasks. The proposal, pending approval from the New Jersey Administrative Office of the Courts, was seen as a strategic move to enhance resource management and operational efficiency.

The council discussed applying for an additional local recreation improvement grant for a turf field project at the athletic field complex, seeking $75,000 to supplement an earlier $92,000 grant. With total project costs estimated between $300,000 and $400,000, the council aims to secure multiple grants to alleviate the borough’s financial burden. The project is expected to be completed in 2026.

The council addressed several resolutions related to administrative efficiency, including formalizing overtime handling for police dispatchers and allowing more flexible scheduling for dispatch staff. These resolutions were met with general agreement.

Community events were a focal point, with commendations for the recreation committee’s successful menorah lighting event, which promoted peace and unity in light of global events. The council announced free holiday parking in downtown areas through January 1st to support local businesses, with a review planned for potential permanent implementation.

A settlement agreement with Garden Homes and Fair Share Housing was also discussed, designed to protect Garwood from builder’s remedy lawsuits related to affordable housing compliance. The settlement, described as occasionally frustrating, was acknowledged as a significant accomplishment, with plans for a town hall meeting to further discuss the agreement.