At the Allendale Borough Council meeting chaired by Mayor Amy Wilczynski on September 7, the spotlight was on the community-focused initiatives spanning a proclamation for the rejuvenated Allendale Senior Living facility and substantive discussions revolving around public safety, community betterment projects, and an upcoming 9/11 commemorative event.
A significant portion of the gathering was dedicated to recognizing the efforts of the Allendale Senior Living, a family-owned, physician-operated establishment serving the community for over half a century. Mayor Wilczynski lauded the facility’s commitment to promoting independence among its residents through its “aging in place” approach coupled with excellent medical care. The facility, which has recently undergone renovations, is set to host a ribbon-cutting ceremony on September 14, an event the Mayor urged the council members to attend, highlighting the robust rehabilitation center it houses.
The session included robust discussions on a string of public safety measures and municipal improvements. At the core was ordinance 23-13, a temporary amendment to the organizational structure of the police and public safety roles, precipitated by a wave of retirements and subsequent new hirings in the police department. The measure will remain effective until Sergeant Steadman’s retirement.
Councilman Edward O’Connell acknowledged the hard work behind managing Crestwood Park and heralded the laying down of six tons of asphalt to mend the potholes, anticipating a smoother transition into the fall sports season. The council concurred on tempering the light ordinance temporarily to facilitate a safe exit for attendees of a college fair and a football game hosted by Northern Highlands.
The council reports mentioned a transition to a new mass notification system promising more efficient community reach replacing the Swift Reach system. Councilman Tyler Yaccarino voiced his appreciation for the borough’s emergency services, based on his personal experience.
Discussions included the prospects of a new concession stand in the offing for the next year, albeit with budgetary considerations at the forefront. Councilman Yaccarino initiated discussions on carrying forward learnings from the present Crestwood Lake season to the next, aiming for enhancements to the community services. A collaborative approach was emphasized, with plans to engage various stakeholders in the brainstorming process.
Mayor Wilczynski anticipated a fair and updated sewer agreement with Saddle River, emphasizing that the adjacent town should bear its fair share. The Mayor also mentioned the ongoing water utility sale efforts, noting the continuous endeavors to attain parity on several critical fronts.
An emotional quotient to the meeting was the announcement of the upcoming 9/11 ceremony where decorated resident Frank Demola would narrate his personal journey.
Amidst appreciative nods to the upgraded borough website and the September newsletter preparations, Attorney Ray West provided a situational update on ongoing negotiations involving the council and the Police Benevolent Association, aiming for consensus on pertinent issues.
As the discussion moved to the public session, a resident’s concerns about safety brought to the fore the foliage issues on Chestnut Street. Mayor Wilczynski responded promptly, agreeing to a discussion with concerned personnel.
