River Edge Approves Budget Amendments Amidst Deliberate Discussions

Overview: In a recent River Edge Borough Council meeting, members engaged in discussions and decision-making regarding the borough’s budget. The session was marked by debate over financial allocations for emergency services, including salary increases for the fire department’s long-serving administrative employee and the police department’s operational needs. The council also scrutinized capital budget amendments for the fire department and the police department’s vehicle replacements and wellness program. Moreover, the library board’s concerns about salary cuts potentially affecting services were addressed, with the council explaining budget constraints and historical funding levels.

River Edge Discusses Budget Challenges and Financial Planning

Overview: In a recent River Edge Borough Council meeting, the main agenda was a discussion on the 2024 operational budget, which presented a complex financial picture marked by a 5.55% increase. The budget challenges faced by the municipality were outlined, with major drivers including increased costs in police salaries, employee health insurance, Social Security, landfill fees, and liability insurance. The council also discussed the anticipated bill from Hackensack Paramus for sewer charges and the separate bill for a portion of the town not covered by the Bergen County Utility Authority (BCUA), contributing to a total wastewater budget of approximately $1.6 million. A significant increase in legal services by $225,000 and other notable hikes in recycling costs and finance salaries prompted detailed exploration and debate among council members.

River Edge Council Approves Road Resurfacing Plan

Overview: The River Edge Borough Council has approved a road resurfacing plan valued at $797,220. The council meeting, held on March 11th, 2024, addressed several issues including public works initiatives, community services requests, and local business concerns.

River Edge Approves Emergency Financing for DEP-Required Mapping System

Overview: In a notable move, the River Edge Borough Council approved special emergency financing for a new mapping system mandated by the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (DEP). This authorization, which took place during a special virtual meeting on February 29, 2024, allows the council to distribute the cost of the required compliance over a span of five years.

River Edge Council Tackles Cannabis Regulation and Ramadan Display

Overview: In the latest River Edge Borough Council meeting, members focused on refining cannabis establishment regulations and discussed the constitutional implications of authorizing a religious display on municipal property. The meeting delved into detailed amendments of three cannabis-related ordinances and touched upon the legal complexities of displaying a crescent and moon to celebrate Ramadan on municipal grounds, ultimately advising against it to avoid potential First Amendment issues.