The council received enthusiastic feedback about the development of a new playground that promises inclusivity for all children, being fully ADA compliant. This playground will incorporate features such as drop-down equipment and shaded areas, in accordance with grant requirements. The installation process will include rubber matting and concrete work to enhance accessibility to the nearby pond and gazebo. Plans were also discussed to paint the gazebo, further improving the aesthetic appeal of the entire area when the playground officially opens.

Adding to the positive community news, the Bloomingdale Supermarket is set to reopen on Friday, a development that was welcomed. The return of the supermarket is seen as a vital component of the community’s economic and social life, providing residents with convenient access to groceries and other essentials.

The council meeting also addressed a series of ordinances on their agenda. Ordinance Number 9-2025, amending Chapter 92 concerning accessory structures, was adopted after the second final reading and a public hearing, which saw no comments from the audience. Similarly, Ordinance Number 10-2025, involving the special assessment for Hilltop Terrace sidewalks, was introduced and adopted following a public hearing. This was followed by the adoption of Ordinance Number 11-2025, concerning sidewalks on Orchard and Wallace Avenue. Each ordinance passed unanimously after the procedural steps of reading by title and opening for public comment, which yielded no participation.

In line with financial oversight and efficiency, Ordinance Number 12-2025 amended Chapter 2-8 related to Junior Academy fees, and Ordinance Number 13-2025 addressed changes to Chapter 9 regarding procurement cards. Both were adopted without public comment. Resolution Number 2025-5.8 authorized a state contract with US Bank for procurement card services, and Resolution 2025-5.9 established policies for ACH and wire transfer payments. Resolution 2025-5.10 renewed a shared service agreement with Pompton Lakes Mechanical, with discussions indicating a transition of some mechanical services back in-house, potentially impacting future contracts.

The council introduced Ordinance Number 14-2025 as a traffic control measure, aimed at preventing blockage at critical intersections based on recommendations from the traffic bureau. Despite the invitation for public comment, no one stepped forward, and the ordinance was moved forward.

In other business, the council introduced Ordinance Number 15-2025, concerning the sale of property at block 5105, lot 14.01, with a final reading scheduled for June 17. Additionally, Ordinance Number 16-2025, amending the Dear Track redevelopment plan, was introduced, with a referral to the planning board and a final reading set for the same date.

Recognition was given to Michael Sandomar for his induction into the Walter T. Bergen Honor Wall of Fame. This honor acknowledges his contributions to both the community and local schools, underlining the council’s emphasis on recognizing civic engagement.

The meeting also covered various initiatives and events. The council announced a paper shredding recycling day on October 18 and a cleanup day at Delayer Field on May 17, with lunch and multiple organizations participating. The Memorial Day parade is scheduled for May 26, and the townwide garage sale is set for June 7, followed by fireworks on June 28. The library will host a series of events, including a pocketbook bingo and an art class, alongside its summer reading program, featuring visits from Howling Woods and Euphoria.

Emergency services reported a decrease in calls compared to the previous year, and mutual aid collaborations with nearby municipalities were noted. The Dry Bar Little League has resumed its season, and the Tri-Boro Chamber of Commerce introduced a bingo card program to stimulate local business engagement.

The Board of Education’s recent budget approval will result in an estimated $150 tax increase for the average household. Clarifications were made concerning sidewalk responsibilities, emphasizing that homeowners are accountable unless the engineering department mandates repairs.