Affordable Housing Litigation and Tree Ordinance Spark Debate at Old Tappan Borough Council Meeting

Overview: The Old Tappan Borough Council meeting focused on community issues, including affordable housing litigation, a proposed tree ordinance, and ongoing property concerns. The council discussed topics such as the appointment of a deputy tax collector, updates on local projects, and public comments about environmental and safety concerns.

Old Tappan Residents Voice Concerns Over New Tree Removal Regulations

Overview: During the recent Old Tappan Borough Council meeting, residents expressed concerns about the new tree removal regulations. The primary issue arose during the public comments segment, where a new property owner, Martino, outlined the financial and procedural challenges posed by these rules. He detailed his experience with the permit process, which required him to plant 57 new trees or make a substantial donation to the town, totaling $7,375, for the removal of 19 trees. Martino noted that some of the trees were hazardous, presenting a danger to his family and property.

Old Tappan Council Debates New Health Insurance Program

Overview: The Old Tappan Borough Council’s recent meeting centered on the implementation of a new health insurance program for municipal employees, which could impact the borough’s finances and the well-being of its staff. The proposed Difference Card program aims to reduce health insurance costs by switching to a less expensive plan and capturing the cost difference in a Health Reimbursement Arrangement (HRA) account, from which employees would pay certain health benefit costs like deductibles.

Old Tappan Seeks OPRA Reform and Addresses Local Concerns

Overview: In an effort to enhance government transparency while maintaining privacy and efficiency, the Old Tappan Borough Council adopted a resolution supporting the modernization of the Open Public Records Act (OPRA), emphasizing the need for reform. This notable move, backed by the council’s support for New Jersey Senate Bill 2930 and Assembly Bill 4045, seeks to address the challenges posed by burdensome commercial requests and the allocation of attorney fees. The resolution was adopted during a council meeting that also saw discussions on local infrastructure improvements, community concerns over sewer charges and drainage issues, and the challenges of recruiting volunteers for emergency services.

Old Tappan Council Opposes Bill on Accessory Dwelling Units

Overview: In a recent session, Old Tappan Borough Council has taken a stand against Senate Bill 2347, which aims to alter local zoning control by promoting the unrestricted development of accessory dwelling units (ADUs) in New Jersey municipalities. The council’s resolution to oppose this bill underscores their concerns over local zoning autonomy and the potential environmental impacts, such as increased runoff and flooding, that could arise from such legislative changes. Additionally, the council tackled updates on affordable housing legislation, administrative appointments, the 2024 Municipal budget, and various community department updates during the meeting.