A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to discussing Verizon Wireless’s proposal to install a small wireless facility in the public right-of-way, aimed at enhancing 5G coverage between the local high school and middle school. Kevin Jones from Zublatin Jones, representing Verizon, elaborated on their plans to relocate the facility to a new site on Fifth Avenue, in front of Grace Lutheran Church, following feedback from the council about the proximity of the original location near residential homes. The new site is intended to address significant service drop-offs experienced in the area, particularly during school events and peak times, without encroaching on residential areas.

Jones detailed the technical specifications of the facility, which includes a 38.5-foot pole with antennas at the top designed to improve wireless coverage and support emergency communication for first responders. He assured the council that the facility would be remotely monitored, requiring minimal additional traffic for maintenance. The council, while unable to approve or disapprove the installation due to federal regulations, expressed appreciation for Verizon’s willingness to consult and find a solution that minimizes the public impact.

In another discussion, the council addressed frustrations over delays by PSEG in completing high pressure line improvements on Bogurt Road. The council confirmed that while Bogurt Road is included in improvement plans, paving cannot proceed until PSEG fulfills its obligations to prevent wasting taxpayer money. The council noted that legal options are being considered to compel PSEG to adhere to timelines, and future agreements will aim to prevent unnecessary road disruptions. This ongoing issue has been a point of contention, as the council seeks to balance infrastructure improvements with fiscal responsibility.

Parking issues in the Bogurt Road area were also a notable topic during the public comment section. Resident Jane Selain voiced concerns over parking ordinances that have led to vehicles being “stored” on her street, creating dangerous conditions for children and complicating street cleaning and snow plowing. She urged the council to consider changes, such as a townwide permit system or adjusting no-parking regulations, to alleviate the situation. The council acknowledged these concerns and informed residents that the police department, including Sergeant Diamond, would address the parking ordinances in a meeting scheduled for May.

Additionally, the council addressed questions from resident Katherine Bound about the removal of the term “Easter” from a local event, aligning with borough policies prohibiting religious symbols in government-sponsored activities. Bound also inquired about the purpose of two flag poles outside town hall, which were clarified to be for both architectural balance and displaying flags, including the United States and River Edge flags.

The meeting also covered various ordinances and resolutions. The council approved a cap bank ordinance, allowing the borough to exceed tax limitations in emergencies. They also adopted ordinances relating to improvements on Koga Road and the borough’s capital fund for necessary purchases and equipment. In the realm of old business, the council reported positive feedback from the River 250 kickoff event and encouraged participation in the upcoming River Edge run and Bergen County Service Week.