The council unanimously approved two ordinances that raised service charges for sewer and water utilities. The adjustments were deemed necessary due to increased operating costs and to maintain the utility’s financial health. The sewer service charges will increase from $6.67 to $7.47 per 10,000 gallons, raising the minimum quarterly bill to $123.26. Similarly, water service charges will rise from $6.67 to $8 per 1,000 gallons, with the minimum quarterly charge reaching $40. These changes come in response to a 9% rate hike from bulk water suppliers. The council sought public input on these ordinances, but no comments were made, allowing the motions to pass without opposition. As per legal requirements, these ordinances will be published on the township’s official website before taking effect.

The meeting also focused on the township’s response to a recent snowstorm, which had led to the cancellation of a prior meeting. The storm brought 18 to 20 inches of snowfall, with additional accumulation the following morning. The township used approximately 150 tons of salt, with crews working to manage snow removal. Total costs, including labor from the Board of Education, exceeded $100,000. Efforts are underway to seek reimbursement from FEMA for these expenses. Council members expressed gratitude to the Department of Public Works (DPW), first responders, and the Office of Emergency Management (OEM) for their effective preparation and response during the storm.

In other business, the council recognized Township Manager Joe Kelly for receiving the Seton Hall University Law School Rhodino Society Young Alumni Trailblazer Award. The mayor and council members praised Kelly for his leadership and work ethic during challenging times, including his participation in community events like Read Across America week.

The council also honored UNICO, an Italian service organization, for its 40 years of service to Cedar Grove. The mayor read a proclamation recognizing UNICO’s contributions, which include scholarships exceeding $100,000 to Cedar Grove High School seniors, substantial donations to local food banks and schools, and organizing community events like the Columbus Day essay contest and the annual pasta fundraiser. UNICO’s President Amy Tafarro was acknowledged for her leadership, and the organization was praised for embodying “the highest ideals of volunteerism and community spirit.”

Affordable housing was another key topic, with the council nearing completion of an affordable housing settlement. Ordinances related to this settlement require planning board approval and notification to property owners within 200 feet of the affected areas. These steps must be completed before the ordinances can be adopted, leading to a motion to table the items for consideration at the March 16th special meeting. Adoption of these ordinances is critical to ensuring compliance with court requirements and avoiding builder’s remedy lawsuits.

The council also approved a fireworks permit for an Independence Day display, with a budget not to exceed $25,000. This increase from the previous year’s budget aims to celebrate America’s 250th anniversary with a grand display. Additionally, the council considered tax exemptions for a property owned by a disabled veteran and recognized the contributions of volunteer members of the Cedar Grove Township Ambulance and Rescue Squad under the Length of Service Awards Program.

Discussions on fuel contracts resulted in resolutions authorizing the purchase of gasoline and diesel fuel through the Morris County Cooperative Pricing Council. The council also introduced an ordinance prohibiting the erection of structures within the public right-of-way to protect infrastructure and reduce maintenance costs.