The council unanimously passed Ordinance No. 1120-2023, which amended and modified Chapter 40 of the Demarest Borough Code relating to the Police Department. Specifically, this ordinance revises definitions and word usage, and offers clarity to the department’s disciplinary authority and responsibilities. The public was given an opportunity to weigh in on this ordinance during a hearing, but no one came forward with comments or questions.

Another notable decision was the adoption of Ordinance No. 1121-23, concerning amendments to Chapter 163 related to trees. Linda Cetta, the chair of the Shade Tree Commission, expressed her gratitude to the Mayor and Council for their work on this ordinance. Councilmember Hamilton, in turn, acknowledged Councilmember Fox for her dedicated work on the tree protection ordinance. Mayor Brian Bernstein also took a moment to thank Councilmember Fox and the Shade Tree Commission for their efforts.

In financial matters, the council, after a brief public hearing, waived the reading of the 2023 Municipal Budget in full through Resolution Number 92-23. The council will also hold a public hearing on July 10, 2024, for any amendments to this budget. Additionally, the council made decisions regarding the salaries and compensation of some borough officials and employees for the year 2023 through Ordinance No. 1122-23.

The council wrapped up its business with a unanimous approval of the consent agenda, which included liquor license renewals and the approval of a bills list.

Ending on a note of appreciation, Mayor Bernstein thanked the finance committee members, Council President Slowikowski, Councilmember Fox, and Councilmember Jiang, for their work on the 2023 budget.

The meeting, which was held at the Council Chambers of the Borough of Demarest, concluded at 7:45 pm, having lasted just over an hour.