The highlight of the meeting was a proposal spearheaded by William Husking, Eileen Hillock, and Bob Steinberg, representing the Glen Rock Thomas D. Egan Post 850 VFW and local veterans. They put forth an initiative to install banners around Glen Rock to honor local veterans, similar to practices in surrounding towns. Steinberg emphasized, “Our veterans have a strong desire for this…our veterans deserve this well-recognized quality program honoring their service and sacrifices for our freedoms.”

Despite some apparent duplication of efforts and lack of coordination among council members on this matter, the council expressed enthusiasm for the initiative and assured those present that they would address the issue in a special meeting.

Further, the council recognized sustainability and community wellness as priorities. Council Member Amy Martin updated the council on the Environmental Commission’s progress towards re-certification for Sustainable New Jersey, including an ordinance to lessen gas blower usage due to noise pollution and potential harm. Teresa Gilbreath emphasized permanent stage two water restrictions and urged residents to adhere to water conservation measures.

Council President Mary Barchetto lauded the Glen Rock Police Department for handling 1,341 calls and encouraged residents to attend the Police National Night on August 1st. She also mentioned upcoming community events, including a Senior Deck Party and an Empty Nesters’ Cocktail Party in September.

The meeting further covered topics such as emergency preparedness, pet licensing, and administrative changes. The Council discussed the importance of the ‘File of Life’ program and stressed the importance of pet licensing for community safety. Council Member Jill Orlich highlighted the Glen Rock Fire Department’s response to 148 alarms this year and announced the department’s call for applications for its Citizens Fire Academy.

Two ordinances were passed unanimously, including one renaming the Senior Citizen Advisory Committee to the Senior Advisor Advisory Committee and another that permits the use of municipal parking lots for the storage of refuse containers.