11:29Mayor Lane’s budget presentation highlighted the financial pressures facing the borough, with a detailed breakdown of the factors leading to a $1.25 million increase in the total tax levy. Key contributors included a steep 22.5% rise in sewage charges and a 24.1% increase in garbage disposal costs, along with substantial hikes in employee health benefits and pension costs. These expenses added $815,000 to the budget, which would have seen only a marginal 0.3% increase otherwise. As a result, the average homeowner will experience a $122 rise in municipal taxes, although the mayor noted that the municipal portion remains a fraction of the overall property tax bill, with most funds directed to schools and county obligations.

24:36The council also addressed issues with the borough’s waste management system. Concerns were raised about the lack of oversight of the garbage collection contractor, leading to missed recycling pickups and early start times that violated local ordinances. A suggestion was made to revise the waste pickup contract to incorporate stricter compliance measures and ensure more active monitoring by the Department of Public Works. The debate underscored differing expectations among council members regarding contractor accountability and service quality.

32:54Traffic safety concerns emerged during discussions about a municipal pool parking lot and a problematic intersection near Route 208. Parking enforcement at the pool lot could not begin until new signage was installed, a matter the council planned to address before the upcoming pool season. Additionally, the council explored potential solutions with the Department of Transportation to improve traffic flow and safety at the congested intersection near Paul’s Motor Shortways.

43:46Affordable housing litigation took center stage as the council negotiated with the Department of Community Affairs (DCA) over the number of required affordable units. While the DCA initially mandated 300 units, the borough’s planner, John Sabbo, argued for a lower figure of 183. After rejecting offers for higher numbers, the council settled on a compromise of 200 units, a decision seen as a strategic move to avoid unfavorable judicial assumptions. This recommendation was considered a manageable target, despite acknowledging the challenges of actually constructing the units.

49:29Borough Engineer Joe Burn provided updates on infrastructure projects, including the replacement of galvanized water service lines along Diamond Bridge Avenue and preparations for improvements at Lincoln Middle School and St. Anthony’s School. He noted that the Lafayette Streetscape phase 3 project was tentatively scheduled to begin in early April, and repairs at the Hawthorne Library were imminent, emphasizing the importance of quality workmanship.

50:52The council also passed resolution R63, authorizing the purchase of new equipment for Rescue Company 5, achieving significant cost savings through negotiations. Additionally, the council approved resolution R66, engaging an architectural firm for police department renovations and exploring a shared services agreement with Passaic County for vehicle maintenance to reduce costs.

42:36Mayor Lane took the opportunity to remind residents of upcoming community events, including Autism Awareness Month activities and the Mayor’s Walk for Wellness. The council also discussed resolutions related to the 2025 budget, all of which received unanimous approval.