The council’s firm stance on cannabis regulation was a key focus of the meeting. Jason Lizy, owner of Al Supply Company, a local cannabis dispensary, addressed the council to advocate for a delivery service, emphasizing the potential to increase tax revenue and expand the service area. Lizy argued that without a delivery option, Little Falls was losing revenue to neighboring towns. Despite these points, the council remained resolute, prioritizing the town’s small scale as a limiting factor for additional cannabis licenses.

Besides cannabis deliberations, the meeting highlighted the community’s resilience and achievements. Mayor James Damiano recognized Pake Valley High School’s 2026 valedictorian, Anna Petrusi, and salutatorian, Carrie Friedick, for their academic excellence and future pursuits. Petrusi was commended for her selection to the New Jersey Scholar program and plans to study psychology at Tulane University. Friedick’s involvement in theater and student government was noted alongside his intention to study at Yale University.

The council also celebrated the triumph of the fifth-grade boys travel basketball team, champions of the North Jersey Junior Basketball League. The team’s coach, Anthony Moreno, was acknowledged for guiding the players to victory with a decisive three-point buzzer-beater in the finals against Midland Park.

Mayor Damiano provided an update on a recent storm that caused significant damage in Little Falls, detailing the coordinated response by local departments. Police, fire, EMS, and the Department of Public Works (DPW) were commended for their effective action in restoring safety and order. The mayor expressed gratitude to utility partners at PSEG for addressing power outages and highlighted community efforts to support a family displaced by a tragic fire. This response underscored the town’s unity and resilience, with the mayor affirming, “we are Little Falls strong.”

Following the recognitions and updates, the council addressed several resolutions, including a tax refund resolution and the renewal of the group dental benefits program with Delta Dental, noting minimal cost increases. The appointment of Jack Marion as township tax assessor was confirmed, deemed the best candidate after a thorough selection process. A shared service agreement with Cedar Grove for fire subcode and inspector services was also discussed, promising mutual benefits and additional revenue for Little Falls without affecting local services.

The council approved a municipal consent resolution for a PSEG project involving underground connections from Totowa to Cedar Grove, passing through Little Falls. This project is expected to cause some disruptions, with specific construction routes outlined. A professional services contract with IT service provider Trinosa was renewed to ensure continuity of services.

Public hearings on several ordinances followed, including the adoption of Ordinance 1541, which introduced regulations on short-term rentals. Despite the opportunity for public input, no comments were made, leading to the ordinance’s unanimous adoption. Similarly, Ordinance 1544, amending street regulations, and Ordinance 1545, addressing peddling and soliciting regulations, were adopted without public opposition. Ordinance 1546, which amends the administration of government chapter in the township code, also passed seamlessly.

Councilman Christopher Vancheri took a moment to express gratitude to various local departments for their role in recent community events, including a concert, Memorial Day parade, and Eid ceremony. Vancheri praised the Little Falls Police Department, the Recreation Department, and DPW for their contributions, highlighting smooth event execution. He also updated the council on new handicap parking spaces and a loading zone on Main Street and Wilmore Road, with signage installation planned to coincide with the concert season.

Councilman Michael Murphy echoed congratulatory sentiments for the students and basketball team. He highlighted a Domestic Violence Awareness Committee presentation at Pake Valley High School, crediting the Little Falls Police Department for their involvement. Murphy noted the committee’s planned participation in the upcoming July 4th street fair.

Councilwoman Christine Hablitz shared library updates, including a Medicare seminar, preschool yoga sessions, a summer reading kickoff, and a growing farmers market. She invited the community to the summer movie series scheduled for August.

The Chief of Police announced his retirement at month’s end, inviting the community to a farewell gathering. Deputy Chief Pressing requested market visitors to respect parking regulations, addressing recent issues.