The meeting began with the Homeowners Association’s Linda Colini presenting a check for $3,000 to the council. The donation, intended for the RAP, will support local residents with meals and toys during the holiday season. Council members, including Tanisha Dennis, Francesco Fasolo, Daniel Golabek, Lorraine Pellegrine, Theresa Sheridan, Sandra Balistrieri, and Mayor Robert Colletti, all expressed gratitude for the association’s continuous support and dedication.

Councilwoman Dennis specifically thanked Linda Colini and the association for their generous donations and acknowledged their efforts to assist the community. Councilman Fasolo underscored the positive impact of the RAP, attributing much of its success to the association’s ongoing support.

Following the presentation, the council introduced an ordinance related to business and rental insurance registration. The borough attorney explained the necessity of the ordinance in line with state regulations. It requires businesses and rental apartments to maintain liability insurance, with the municipality ensuring that every business and rental unit provides an insurance certificate annually and upon any change of tenants or inspection for occupancy certificates. The final hearing for the ordinance was scheduled for December 21st, 2023.

Several other ordinances were also discussed and passed unanimously. Among them were ordinances dealing with lead-based paint inspections, amending the code regarding streets and sidewalk restoration permits, amending the code regarding swimming pools, and authorizing improvements to various avenues in Elmwood Park. The council also passed an ordinance authorizing the acquisition of a new pumper fire engine, an investment of $1.49 million, which they deemed necessary for the town’s safety.

In the council reports, Councilwoman Dennis commended everyone involved in Community Day, while Councilman Fasolo praised the community and the police department’s efforts during Halloween. Fasolo also expressed disappointment with the planning board’s decision to deny the opening of a cannabis establishment in Elmwood Park.

Councilwoman Sandra Balistrieri congratulated Mayor Robert Colletti and Councilwoman Lorraine Pellegrine on their reelection, along with Councilwoman-elect Theresa Sheridan on her election. She stressed the importance of governing and moving forward, separate from the election process. The sentiment was echoed by other council members, with Councilwoman Pellegrine expressing gratitude for the residents voting for her team and Council President Fasolo congratulating the winners and encouraging those who fell short to keep trying.

During the public comment section, resident Eder Biggs voiced concerns about traffic safety on West Street and Vini Place. Mayor Colletti assured him that the issue would be evaluated and presented to the council for consideration.