17:28The meeting opened with a detailed report on the borough’s response to a recent severe weather event that caused substantial flooding. The Mayor expressed gratitude to the police department, fire department, and Department of Public Works for their efforts during the incident. The departments conducted water rescues and managed downed vehicles. The Mayor emphasized that the flooding was due to an overwhelming rainfall amount, which exceeded the stormwater system’s capacity, and clarified that the pumps at the underpass functioned effectively, allowing for swift water recession post-storm. Additionally, the Mayor refuted claims of neglect in maintenance, confirming that the brook and associated infrastructure are regularly inspected.

The Mayor also addressed climate change, highlighting that new storm patterns have resulted in increased rainfall intensity. The Mayor called for regional collaboration to secure infrastructure improvement funding, necessary to address these emerging challenges. The Mayor dismissed narratives blaming development for the flooding, pointing out that Garwood currently has more permeable land than before, and flooding occurred even in undeveloped areas. The need for comprehensive infrastructure changes to benefit the entire region was emphasized.

05:44In a related infrastructure discussion, the borough engineer provided updates on various ongoing projects, including an NJ DOT grant application for street work and sanitary sewer repairs. The engineer mentioned that grant approval notifications are anticipated around election day and emphasized the importance of promptly conducting a pre-construction meeting to ensure sidewalk work completion before the school year. The engineer also discussed soliciting quotes from contractors for sanitary sewer repairs and the necessity for the council to act based on available funding.

12:08Pedestrian safety concerns were another focal point of the meeting. A council member raised a resident’s inquiry about the lack of crosswalks on Center Street, particularly near Unami Park. The increasing pedestrian traffic in the area has highlighted the need for additional crosswalks. The engineer was tasked with investigating the feasibility of adding crosswalks and assessing the positioning of curb cuts and sewer grates, which might impact new crosswalk installations. Historical street work data will be reviewed to identify beneficial and feasible crosswalk locations.

37:31The meeting also touched on planning board matters, with reports on two applications for certificates of nonconformity being approved, and an extension granted to a proposed Popeye’s establishment. A discussion focused on revising the borough’s outdated sign ordinance, which had not been updated in over three decades. Changes are to be reviewed by the council before the planning board’s next meeting.

41:47Community safety was further addressed through a public health alert issued concerning recent raccoon bites, urging residents to avoid contact with wild animals and ensure pets are vaccinated.

Public comments included concerns about support for emergency services, with a resident stressing the importance of backing fire departments and rescue squads. A discussion on resolution 20-152, which rejected bids for a circulation element, highlighted pedestrian safety issues and the need for compliance with state standards. Concerns were raised about sight lines at intersections, and the council was urged to prioritize safety.

49:57Questions regarding the borough’s affordable housing plan were also raised, with discrepancies in consultant calculations noted. A resident inquired about funding for a DOT project.