The council displayed strong support for Mayor Peter Guindi’s proposal to enhance Main Street’s aesthetic by planting trees. The initiative aims to replace the current planters with trees that would be professionally planted and maintained by the Board of Public Works. The project, backed by the tree and shade trust fund, is slated for the early spring to ensure optimal growth conditions. The crepe myrtle trees currently in place are to be relocated to Blueacre properties, maximizing resource use. Council members fondly recalled past greenery in the area and unanimously backed the project, with one member highlighting the need to replace street grates and confirming the survival of some existing trees. Concerns were addressed regarding the safety of planting near county roads, with assurances that county officials had been consulted and were supportive of the plans, contingent on the council’s communication regarding tree species selection.

The meeting also focused on the restructuring of the local environmental bodies. Ordinance 2026-4 was introduced to separate the environmental commission and green team from the shade tree advisory board, aligning with New Jersey’s statutory requirements. This move clarifies the roles and responsibilities of each entity while allowing individuals to serve on both the environmental commission and the green team. Emily Graasso, chair of the environmental advisory board, sought clarification on the separation, expressing concerns about member participation across the teams. Clarification was provided, confirming that members could indeed serve on both the environmental commission and the green team, promoting synergy between the two bodies while maintaining statutory compliance.

Further ordinances were discussed, including Ordinance 2026-5, which aims to prohibit the throwing of snow and ice onto roadways, reinstated to enhance public safety. Ordinance 2026-6, which repeals and replaces sections of the borough code to establish a separate environmental commission and green team alongside a shade tree advisory board, also garnered unanimous support. Additionally, the council unanimously approved Ordinance 2026-7, which introduces a security deposit requirement for reservations at Graovski Park Baseball Field.

The meeting also featured a report from CME Justin on capital projects, revealing that minor tasks remain for completion of current projects pending improved weather, and outlining progress on the 2025 local aid program and electrical substation maintenance. The police chief reported advancements in the communications room, transitioning to digital phone consoles, and highlighted the borough’s ranking as New Jersey’s third safest city. Recruitment efforts for new officers continue, with applications open until March 14.

Public comments revealed concerns about the closure of Collins Drive, with a resident questioning the council’s decision, citing safety and confusion issues. The council reiterated that the closure was based on safety considerations, despite the resident’s frustrations. Discussions also touched on the environmental implications of installing artificial turf at Graky Park, with residents urging consultation with the environmental commission before proceeding with such projects. Concerns about tree planting logistics and the need for professional guidance in species selection were also raised.

The council reviewed and passed a series of resolutions, including appointments and contract awards, with unanimous consent. Among these, Resolution 2026-95 involved appointments to the Office on Aging, and Resolution 101 awarded a contract to Crossroads Paving Company. Council member comments acknowledged the efforts of various departments during recent snowstorms, emphasizing the importance of post-storm meetings for community preparedness and the ongoing challenges related to snow removal.