0:49The most notable event was the swearing-in ceremony of new patrolmen Andrew Mortensson and Eric Ortiz. Mortensson, 31, a resident of River, is engaged to be married in the fall and has prior experience as a Class 2 officer in Seaside Park and Island Heights. Ortiz, 27, hails from Union Township and holds a BA in criminal justice. Both officers were sworn in unanimously through resolutions 135 and 136, pledging to uphold the U.S. Constitution and the Constitution of New Jersey. The mayor expressed gratitude for their commitment to the community, stating, “You have our full support and endorsement.”

22:36Attention then turned to infrastructure improvements, with discussions on ongoing and upcoming projects. The New Jersey American Water project on Prospect Avenue will see the installation of new water mains and service connections. Similarly, the Second Street project, currently in pre-construction stages, promises further updates once the contractor provides more information. The Washington Avenue Streetscape project is set to enhance the area with new LED decorative light poles and landscaping, supported by a New Jersey Transit Village grant.

Traffic safety emerged as a central concern, especially regarding intersections at New Market Road and Walnut Place, and New Market Road and South Washington Avenue. The council discussed collaborating with the county to install traffic lights, though they noted potential delays due to bureaucratic processes. The council underscored ongoing efforts to ensure pedestrian safety and improve traffic flow, emphasizing the need for timely county responses.

Demographic changes in the school district also garnered attention. The council referenced a recent board of education meeting, revealing that the influx of school-age children was about 25% less than anticipated, challenging previous projections based on redevelopment efforts. Council members stressed that while redevelopment plays a role, it is not the predominant factor affecting student numbers. They emphasized the importance of accurate data to combat misconceptions regarding redevelopment’s impact on school populations.

In response to a request from the school district, polling places will be relocated to the Denellan Senior Center, Denellan Firehouse, and Denellan Public Library. The borough will inform affected voters through mailings and online platforms to ensure clear communication about these changes.

0:49The meeting also touched on several resolutions, including the adoption of Ordinance 2025-08 to amend handicapped parking legislation. This ordinance adds a handicapped parking space in front of St. Nicholas Visyine Catholic Church on Madison Avenue and passed unanimously after brief discussion. Other resolutions covered routine matters such as payment of bills and authorizing temporary retail food permits for an upcoming open-air market.

Council members provided various reports, highlighting community initiatives and departmental updates. Councilwoman Albertson praised the fire department’s recruitment efforts and promoted an upcoming library event titled “George and Martha Washington: A Love Story.” Councilwoman Rios discussed the Board of Education’s preschool registration and encouraged public engagement with the proposed school budget. Councilwoman Lance detailed recreation department activities, including an Easter egg hunt and the need for volunteer coaches for youth sports.

Council President Sigman shared efforts to enhance the Shade Tree Commission’s guidelines, while Councilman Scott reported on the Department of Public Works’ preparations for the sporting season and ongoing CCTV inspections of the sewer system by Parsa.

22:36Looking ahead, a mayoral town hall focused on volunteerism is scheduled for April 23rd at the George W. Hodgeik Firehouse. The town hall will offer options for in-person or virtual attendance, encouraging broader participation.