The meeting began with the recognition of Franchesco Frank D. Robertis, who was honored for his extensive service to Cedar Grove. Frank’s roles included positions as the pool manager for the Department of Recreation and the recycling manager for the Department of Public Works. His dedication was highlighted by a council member who remarked, “Frank was there. He was a dedicated professional.” The mayor read a proclamation detailing Frank’s background and contributions to the township, emphasizing his respected reputation among colleagues and residents. Frank expressed his gratitude for the recognition in a brief speech, and the council took pictures with him and his family to commemorate the occasion.

Following the recognition ceremony, the council administered the oath of office to newly hired officer Michael Antonucci. His introduction by the chief of police highlighted Antonucci’s background, education, and prior experience as a dispatcher. The chief noted the competitive nature of the county police academy. The chief assured, “We will take good care of your son… and we’re going to entrust him with a lot of responsibility.”

The council then moved to the adoption of several ordinances. Ordinance 25-954, amending the chapter concerning the Verona Cedar Grove Flood Control Advisory Board, was passed unanimously. This was followed by Ordinance 25-955, which set the maximum allowable rent increase for 2026 at 3.6%. The township clerk confirmed that landlords would be notified before the end of the year. Ordinance 25-956, which extended the licensing period for outdoor sidewalk cafes from six months to one year, also received unanimous approval. Ordinance 25-957, amending the chapter on stormwater control, was similarly adopted without opposition.

The council also addressed Ordinance 25-958 regarding towing regulations, although the specifics of the public comment period for this item were not detailed in the transcript. Ordinance 25-959, amending Chapter 251 of the township’s code regarding vehicles and traffic, was adopted unanimously as well.

A resolution concerning the rejection of all bids for snow plowing services was presented due to a material defect in the sole bid received. The council unanimously agreed to reject the bid and considered alternative mechanisms for securing these services.

The meeting continued with the approval of contracts for tree pruning, removal, and spraying services awarded to Caputo Brothers Tree Services, Inc., and for sludge removal by Spectra Serve Incorporated. The tree services contract, for a maximum of $166,600 over two years, was awarded to Caputo Brothers as the lowest responsible bidder. The sludge removal contract, also for two years, involved rates of 4.5 cents per gallon for one facility and 5.5 cents for another, with an annual expenditure of approximately $550,000 by the township’s sewer utility.

Public safety concerns regarding the use of electric bikes, or ebikes, were raised, particularly about safety issues and accidents involving children. The chief of police stressed the need for a new ordinance to address these concerns, as the current regulations do not adequately cover the issues arising from the use of ebikes. He highlighted the significance of creating a local ordinance to empower law enforcement to manage this situation effectively. Discussions included potential educational measures and the involvement of local schools to promote safe riding practices.

The meeting also celebrated the success of the recent tree lighting event, with council members expressing appreciation for the efforts of township departments and specific individuals in organizing the event. The addition of horses to the event was noted as a delightful change, and the attendance of children was highlighted despite the cold weather.

As the meeting neared its conclusion, the council addressed various administrative matters, including the approval of a budget transfer of $32,325 to cover departmental needs such as rodent control and salaries. A merit-based raise system for Department of Public Works employees was introduced as a means to boost morale and acknowledge individual efforts. The council also approved the 2026 pool rates, which now include an early bird incentive for memberships and the option for credit card payments.