A primary point of discussion was the Environmental Commission’s initiative to plant trees throughout Hillsdale. The project, which Councilman Kleti presented, aims to plant trees in designated parks using around 80% of available funds, with a budget of $10,750. The contractor’s responsibilities include adhering to quality standards for tree size and health, as well as maintaining the trees during their first year.

Equally significant was the discussion on electric bikes (e-bikes) and electric scooters, which have become a growing concern due to safety and regulatory challenges. The council deliberated on the necessity of local policies to manage e-bike usage, particularly on sidewalks, following incidents that underscored enforcement difficulties. The need to align with state-level regulations and the potential for local enforcement capabilities were emphasized, alongside the importance of public awareness campaigns to promote safe practices.

Financial considerations were a recurring theme, notably in the context of the Memorial Field project and the installation of underground electrical conduits. The project faced budgetary constraints, with initial contractor quotes exceeding expectations. Subsequent negotiations achieved a revised estimate closer to budget.

The council also addressed the installation of electric vehicle charging stations, with efforts led by the Environmental Commission to secure grants from the Department of Environmental Protection and PSEG. These grants could provide substantial financial support for the installation of fast-charging ports. However, the council noted that groundwork and utility connection costs would not be covered by these grants, highlighting the need for careful financial planning to ensure project viability.

In a related discussion, updates from the police department emphasized community safety, including regulations surrounding e-bikes and electric scooters. Police Chief Woods reported on recent community engagement efforts and provided statistics on police activity, reflecting ongoing efforts to maintain public safety. Concerns about overnight parking permits were also addressed, with a slight increase in registered vehicles indicating growing community compliance.

Further reports from the superintendent detailed ongoing public works projects, including repairs at Centennial Field and stormwater basin maintenance. The council explored cost-effective strategies to manage lighting repairs at Centennial Field, considering a grant application for a full conversion to LED lighting as a long-term investment. This approach aligns with the council’s goal of optimizing resources while ensuring high-quality public amenities.

The meeting also covered updates on community engagement initiatives, such as a downtown cleanup event organized in collaboration with the Pascack High School Honor Society.

Additionally, the transition to a paperless system for purchase orders and the introduction of an online inspection appointment system reflect the borough’s efforts to enhance operational efficiency. These initiatives aim to streamline processes and reduce administrative burdens, with funding sourced from construction fees rather than taxpayer money.

A two-week deadline was set for soliciting naming suggestions, with calls for a structured approach to ensure a thoughtful outcome.