The meeting began with a presentation from John Beagle of the Clifton Health Department, who outlined the department’s broad role in the community. Beagle emphasized the department’s responsibilities beyond food inspections, such as animal control, disease investigation, and emergency response. He highlighted their 24/7 collaboration with local police, mentioning a notable incident involving the capture of a bald eagle, and reported that the department responded to 95 animal-related calls in the past year. Beagle invited residents to visit the animal shelter housing various animals, including unusual cases like alligators.

Jennifer Kidd, also from the health department, discussed the department’s recent achievements. She highlighted their national accreditation, achieved in November 2023, making them one of only six local health departments in New Jersey to receive this recognition. Kidd also reported on their active health education division, which conducted numerous programs and events in Little Falls, including wellness initiatives and flu shot distributions. She mentioned their participation in local events, such as the upcoming St. Patrick’s Day celebration and a spring event.

A point of discussion was the challenge posed by federal funding cuts, which threatened the loss of six health department positions. Kidd expressed gratitude towards the Clifton City Council for responding to community concerns and including budget provisions to maintain these positions. Council members expressed appreciation for the health department’s contributions, with remarks from the mayor and a council member highlighting the department’s responsiveness and dedication. The council praised the department’s initiatives, including their role in training local fire department personnel on bloodborne pathogens.

The meeting then turned to upcoming community events. A council member announced a rabies clinic for pets on April 30th, a COVID-19 memorial on May 16th, an autism awareness festival on May 10th, and a paint and sip gathering on May 22nd, which would include a presentation on skin and sun safety. The public health committee is set to convene on May 14th.

Another council member provided updates on library events, including a style and fashion event focused on Audrey Hepburn and a Royal Tea Party Club meeting. She acknowledged the efforts of the Little Falls Girl Scouts and the Shade Tree Commission in planting a tree in memory of a former DPW superintendent. The farmers market will return on May 19th with new and returning vendors.

Traffic and safety improvements were also discussed, with a new traffic light operational at the intersection of Francisco A and Cedar Grove Road. An ordinance reducing speed limits on three roads from 35 mph to 25 mph has been approved, with new signage pending.

The council reviewed a proposed tree removal and replacement ordinance, part of a stormwater management initiative requiring permits for such activities. This ordinance is mandated by the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection and is essential for municipalities receiving stormwater management funding. The council and the Shade Tree Commission are reviewing the draft to ensure compliance with state regulations.

In relation to the shade tree ordinance, the council discussed adding a fee-based process for permitting under the stormwater management ordinance. The township is applying for grants to support urban and community forestry, including a $5,000 grant for rewriting the community forestry management plan and a $15,000 grant for a municipal tree inventory.

Attention then shifted to ongoing affordable housing litigation. The township has filed a federal complaint under the Fair Housing Act amendments, seeking a more favorable outcome than past state-level litigation. A resolution passed in January reduced the affordable housing obligation based on available land assessment, lowering the mandated number to 174 units. This position was supported by a mediator/arbitrator.

Frustration was expressed regarding the builders association’s response to the township’s efforts, with criticism of their offer of a blanket 4% reduction as insufficient. The council emphasized that such approaches did not reflect the unique challenges faced by Little Falls, with limited vacant land for development. The mayor recounted the disheartening negotiation process, highlighting the association’s focus on maintaining inflated housing numbers.