The council unanimously adopted Ordinance 2542, which amends the city’s fee schedule to eliminate charges for Englewood residents using pickleball and tennis courts. The ordinance also adjusts ice rink rental rates for non-residents to $560 per hour, with changes effective October 1, 2026, allowing the city to honor existing bookings and published rates. Additionally, the city manager confirmed that renovations to the ice skating facility are underway, funded by a grant that also provided 200 new youth skate sizes.

Another ordinance, 2543, introduces new parking regulations for Lafayette Place, designating areas as no parking zones. This change follows recommendations from the police department due to persistent parking issues raised by residents. Concerns about parking accessibility for local houses of worship were addressed, with suggestions to amend regulations to allow parking during specific hours for church services. The chief of police emphasized the need to balance community needs with enforcement, highlighting efforts to consider stakeholder feedback before finalizing the ordinance.

In a move to comply with stormwater regulations, the council passed eight ordinances, numbered 2544 to 2551, on first reading. These ordinances address various aspects, including illicit connections, improper waste disposal, and pet waste management. Notably, Ordinance 2550 targets wildlife feeding, especially geese in public areas, with the council discussing the need for stricter regulations and improved signage to prevent feeding near sports fields.

The meeting also saw the introduction of a resolution supporting the Northern Valley Greenway, advocating for Englewood’s inclusion in the 2026 environmental feasibility study. The resolution aims to integrate Englewood into broader regional planning efforts, highlighting collaborative outreach with community leaders and local governments.

Environmental justice was another focal point, with a resolution passed to address Englewood’s underrepresentation of parkland compared to other Bergen County towns. Efforts to communicate with local officials and Senator Cory Booker were noted, emphasizing the need for more parks in the city.

Additionally, the council approved a resolution to install a water line to the Louis Bolt Garden, a community space providing educational opportunities and produce to families in need. The city manager was involved in discussions to facilitate this essential improvement.

Public comments during the meeting touched on various consent agenda items, including a plenary retail consumption license for Crown Plaza and a professional service contract for traffic engineering. Concerns about the city’s vehicle purchases were also raised, with calls for more environmentally friendly options. The city manager explained the planned replacement strategy for police vehicles and the use of leased pickup trucks for revenue-generating private-duty assignments.

The council also addressed a proposed ordinance to regulate e-mobility devices and lithium-ion batteries, prompted by safety concerns associated with these technologies. The ordinance aims to control battery storage in retail establishments to minimize fire risks, with the fire chief advising residents on safe charging practices.

Further discussions included the reestablishment of the Green Team, which had been inactive for several years. Proposed amendments aim to expand membership to include a representative from the Board of Education.

The meeting concluded with a resolution approving payments totaling $395,530.74, certified by the chief financial officer as properly documented. Public comments highlighted the importance of transparency and effective communication, with suggestions for enhancing public understanding of council resolutions.