In a meeting marked by ceremony and change, the Hillsdale Borough Council commenced with the swearing-in of Michael Shinfield as mayor, alongside council members John Escobar, Justin Fox, Abby Lundy, and Janetta Trochimiuk. County Executive Jim Tedesco commended Shinfield for his commitment, presenting him with county recognition. Following this, Sean Smith took the oath as the new police chief of Hillsdale, expressing his dedication to community policing and honoring his late mother. The celebrations extended to the promotion of police officials Lieutenant Travis Woods and Sergeant Dave Sers, acknowledged for their contributions to the community and the police force.

The ceremonial atmosphere continued with a break for festivities after the swearing-in of the new police sergeant, David Sers. Upon reconvening, the council elected Escobar as the council president.

However, the meeting’s tone shifted as the council tackled the proposed amendment to the bylaws concerning the mayor’s role in committees. Councilman Ruko’s proposal aimed to restore the mayor’s ex officio status, which would allow the mayor to attend and be involved in all committee meetings, and receive related materials. The council debated the implications of this change, with the borough attorney contributing to the clarification of the amendment’s effects. After thorough discussion, the amendment was passed with a vote of 4-2-1, altering the governance framework within the borough.

Furthermore, the council addressed the structure of standing committees for the year 2024, including sectors such as economic growth, finance, public safety, and historic preservation, approving them unanimously. However, the appointment of a PBA member to the negotiation committee sparked debate due to potential conflict of interest concerns. Councilman Escobar voiced objections, but the council still passed the appointments with a 6-0 vote.

Another focal point was the reorganization of the Fire Department, with Chief Dan Cher and others taking their oaths. The meeting also processed appointments to the Planning Board, with a notable discussion on member classification leading to the unanimous appointment of Scott Raymond as a class two member. The Environmental Commission and the Access for All Committee saw reappointments, alongside unanimous approvals for positions within the OEM, Board of Health, Library Trustees, Local Assistance Board, Parks and Recreation, and the Swimming Pool Commission.

Ethical questions emerged during the public comments when a resident questioned the mayor’s involvement in police PBA negotiations, highlighting the importance of ethical conduct for public officials. Another resident offered congratulations to the newly appointed officials and promoted police officers.

Administratively, the council clarified that only specific officials could administer oaths of office in New Jersey. The consent agenda resolutions were unanimously approved, except for one abstention on the assessor’s repair service that passed with a 5-0 vote. The meeting concluded with the council members expressing optimism for a productive year and a unanimous motion to adjourn.