The Allendale Borough Council recently took strides towards improving the community infrastructure and enhancing public services. Among the highlights were the unanimous approval of ordinances addressing public improvements, bamboo growth, and downtown establishment maintenance, and the appointment of Alison Alan as the permanent administrative officer. Public safety was also a focal point, with updates on the police department’s recruitment efforts and relocation due to facility upgrades, along with plans for traffic enforcement and Halloween safety. The council also responded to residents’ concerns, including an ongoing drainage issue.
In the meeting, the council revealed approval for a bond authorizing public improvements that include a new concession stand and a community center. Councilwoman Liz Homan and Councilwoman Susanne Lovisolo had recently visited the existing concession stand at Creswood, conducting a lidar scan of the structure and discussing options for a cost-efficient replacement. The council also approved an ordinance to moderate the planting and growth of bamboo in the borough, which was received with curiosity by residents during the public comments section. A third ordinance, aimed at assisting with the maintenance of downtown establishments, also gained unanimous approval.
Of significant note was the appointment of Alison Alan, the Chief Financial Officer, into the permanent administrative officer position starting from January 2024. Alan had impressed the council with her presentation on the municipality’s compliance with the best practices inventory checklist, which resulted in a score of 37.5 out of 67, ensuring full payment of Aid in 2024.
The council also addressed public safety concerns. They revealed ongoing interviews for prospective police officers to replenish the police force. These candidates, already holders of police training certificates, are expected to be quickly deployed. The council expressed gratitude to the Ramsey police for accommodating the Allendale staff during a temporary relocation due to a capital upgrade to the police facility. A recent “Coffee with the Mayor and the Police” event, allowing residents to meet new officers and discuss town issues, was deemed a success.
In addition to these initiatives, the council responded to public concerns. Among them was a long-standing drainage issue raised by a resident, Blake Gianis, who expressed frustration at the lack of resolution. The council, particularly Councilwoman Liz Homan, responded by promising a reassessment of the situation by the borough engineer and the director of operations.
