The issue of the postal service contract cancellation at Bill Nigro’s shipping store in Bate Plaza emerged as a primary concern for the council. Nigro, the store owner, expressed worry about the community impact, noting the store’s 30-year history of providing vital postal services, including package handling and post office boxes. Nigro highlighted the inconvenience for residents who would need to travel to the Westwood post office, which lacks sufficient parking and is located far from many Old Tappan residents. He attributed the contract termination to national postal service cutbacks rather than local considerations, stating the decision-makers were not aware of the area’s specific needs.

Council members echoed Nigro’s concerns, emphasizing the necessity of maintaining a postal service at Bate Plaza, particularly with the anticipated growth in local housing developments. They criticized the postal service’s decision as detached from the community’s realities and discussed the possibility of drafting a letter to postal authorities to advocate for the continuation of services. Some council members also suggested Nigro gather customer signatures to strengthen their appeal, pointing to the area’s increasing population density and the challenges of accessing postal services in Westwood.

In a separate but discussion, the council considered donating a retired ambulance to Ramapo College’s Emergency Medical Services (EMS) program. The college’s EMS team, represented by fire marshal Evan Cut, aims to transform into a transport agency, which would allow them to access essential training funds. The council deliberated over the logistics and implications of the donation, with Cut proposing a scholarship through Ramapo College’s foundation for Old Tappan residents, prioritizing first aid members and firefighters.

The council explored how many students might benefit from such a scholarship, with estimates suggesting 10 to 15 students annually, including a few residing on campus. The EMS program, which began as a student club, now operates with a formal structure and has been active for three to four years, particularly after being revived post-pandemic due to high outsourcing costs for ambulance services. The council acknowledged the program’s challenges, such as student turnover and maintaining ambulance services during NCAA events, and discussed the ethical considerations of donating a taxpayer-funded asset.

Further discussions centered on the ambulance’s value and potential donation logistics, including selling or leasing the vehicle. Concerns were raised about ensuring the donation’s legality and fairness, with suggestions of auctioning the ambulance or leasing it for a nominal fee. The council also debated the sustainability of any associated scholarships, emphasizing the need for clarity and fairness in any agreements.

Additional updates were provided on community events and activities. Plans for recreational programs, including an Easter egg hunt and expanded offerings for Camp Serendipity, were shared. The council also discussed costumed participation in Town Day, a library fundraiser, and ongoing adult programs. Updates from the Board of Health noted an increase in flu and RSV cases, while the First Aid Corps reported responding to multiple calls in February.

The Department of Public Works (DPW) was commended for its efforts during a major snowstorm, and the Office of Emergency Management (OEM) recounted their response to the severe weather, including activating emergency plans and coordinating with local organizations. Discussions about changing police department ordinances to accommodate additional lieutenant positions also took place, with plans to address these changes at an upcoming meeting.