During the meeting, the establishment of the permanent polystyrene collection facility was prominently discussed. The facility, set to open on May 15th, will allow Hawthorne residents to contribute to polystyrene recycling continuously, as opposed to the previously held collection days. The polystyrene will be compressed and shipped to Clifton, where it will be processed further. This initiative was met with enthusiasm from the council, although there was an expression of disappointment from one member who felt that Hawthorne should have been the location for the foam cycle machine instead of Clifton.

In addition to environmental initiatives, the council addressed mental health by declaring May 2024 as Mental Health Awareness Month in Hawthorne. The proclamation highlighted the importance of mental health and called for increased awareness and understanding. The Mayor’s Wellness campaign and the Stigma Free team were recognized for their contributions, with plans for a wellness walk and mental health first aid training later in the year.

Tax appeal hearings were another topic. Hawthorne filed only 15 tax appeals at the county level and settled most of them. This resulted in a reduction of over $450,000 in the rateable base and required a refund of over $14,000 in revenues. With most cases resolved, optimism was expressed about the potential to add to the rateable base in the coming year.

The council also announced an ambitious Bandshell schedule, which includes 12 shows over 10 weeks. This schedule features a variety of performances, such as a Beatles tribute band, a Billy Joel tribute, a play by Estelle Barbieri, and a movie night presenting “Lego 2”. The schedule was designed to offer diverse entertainment options for the community.

Updates on various community projects and ongoing initiatives were addressed throughout the meeting. The Galvan water service line replacement, recreational field facility upgrades, and the Hawthorne Library roof project were discussed, with the latter two being recognized for their progress. The impact of tax settlements on future taxes was considered, as was the progress of the radio project for the fire department and ambulance corps, which is 80% complete pending a final connection.

The council confirmed receipt of a $1,000 safety award from the Morris County JF for their safety program and discussed the ongoing issue of PFOA and PFOS levels in the water. The new treatment system was operational, but there is a need to meet regulatory requirements. Additionally, a potential federal funding request for upgrades to the main sewer pump station was submitted to Congressman Pascrell’s office.

The meeting covered reports from special council committees, including a successful mayor and municipal alliance dinner and upcoming library events such as chocolate night and a spring craft show. The volunteer ambulance corps was praised for their recent fundraising efforts and their upcoming promotion during EMS week.

The Board of Education’s budget presentation was also a topic of discussion, particularly in light of a $30,000 state aid cut. The impact of this cut on the budget forced reductions in programs like the Hope program, staff positions, and professional development. Upcoming community events, such as a lecture, recycling program, and bird walks, were briefly discussed.

The Board of Health reported on an upcoming rabies vaccine clinic and various animal sightings. The Shade Tree Commission clarified the cancellation of a sapling giveaway due to weather, not budget issues. Concerns raised by residents included targeted mailboxes, mailbox-related bill procedures, a cracked sidewalk, and the relocation of telephone poles. The council debated the responsibility for moving the poles and addressed issues of double poles and work guarantees on concrete.

Lastly, a resident’s concerns about the use of the rink, including access issues and the possibility of placing buses in a nearby parking lot, were addressed. The council assured the resident that an agreement was in place and that they were willing to work with the school board on this matter. Security and maintenance of the rink were also discussed, with a focus on ensuring proper public access.