Councilwoman Gayle Gerstein proposed and Councilwoman Vicki Frankel seconded Resolution #120:06’2023, which approved the inclusion of a special revenue item in the 2023 budget, totaling $11,788. This grant will be used to implement the Body-Worn Camera program for the Alpine Police Department.

Police officer body cameras serve as a valuable tool in law enforcement by fostering accountability, transparency, and trust between the community and police, while also providing objective evidence in the event of disputes or incidents.

Separately, Resolution #135:06’2023, supporting the Bergen County Fire Mutual Aid Plan, was passed. This plan allows local fire departments to provide mutual aid during large-scale fire or disaster occurrences.

Amid these decisions, the council also endorsed the Planning Board’s approval of a Soil Moving Permit for 14 Church Street, affirmed Councilwoman Frankel’s appointment to the Bergen County Open Space Trust Regional Advisory Committee, and extended the medical leave of Patrolman Justin Fierro due to a non-work-related injury.

Mayor Paul H. Tomasko’s report recognized the efforts of Municipal Clerk Wehmann during the 2023 Primary Election and congratulated Councilmen Frankel and Kupferschmid on their primary wins. He also reported his attendance at the second quarter Safety Committee meeting and the Alpine school graduation.

All the resolutions and ordinances discussed were approved with the majority of council members present, except for Councilman Steven Cohen who was absent from the meeting. The council will meet again to continue addressing important issues affecting the Alpine Borough community.