The discussion on flood management regulations was a focal point of the meeting, as the council considered two ordinances, 1506 and 1507, that address new legislative requirements for residents in flood-prone areas. Mayor James Damiano explained that these ordinances are necessary due to recent changes in legislation mandating municipalities to implement specific measures to assist residents living in flood hazard zones. The proposed regulations require homeowners to elevate their homes if improvements exceed 50% of the improvement value, instead of the total property value. This change poses a challenge for homeowners wishing to undertake renovations, as even minor projects could necessitate careful financial tracking due to potential elevation costs.

In an effort to alleviate financial burdens on residents, the mayor proposed eliminating additional fees for homeowners undertaking improvements in flood-prone areas. This position contrasts with other municipalities that impose extra fees for permit applications. Mayor Damiano argued that it is unfair to pass these costs onto residents who already face the challenges of living in flood-prone regions. He expressed a desire to host a town hall meeting to inform residents about the ordinances and accompanying regulations, with the invitation extended to state and federal representatives to provide expert guidance.

Additionally, the mayor suggested adopting a three-year look-back period for assessing homeowners’ improvement costs. Although this decision might lead to a minor reduction in the town’s Community Rating System (CRS) score, he emphasized that protecting residents from excessive costs should take precedence.

The council also discussed the township’s affordable housing needs, noting that the New Jersey Department of Community Affairs (DCA) had issued numbers indicating a present need of zero units and a prospective need of 285 units for Little Falls. A council member remarked that having a present need of zero is unusual compared to other municipalities in the county, attributing this to effective planning over the past decade. The township has been proactive in ensuring developments include affordable housing units, contributing to this favorable status.

The methodology used by the DCA in determining these numbers was critiqued during the meeting. A council member referenced a seminar that questioned the transparency of the calculations, stating, “no one knows the formula that was used or the equation that was used to come up with the numbers.” It was explained that the DCA’s approach emphasizes an overall growth concept, focusing on an increase in households statewide, which leads to projections about housing needs.

The discussion also touched on the potential impact of the prospective need on zoning and future development in Little Falls. The council member stated that the council must adopt a resolution by January 30th, either agreeing to the DCA’s numbers or proposing alternatives. The council acknowledged the disparity in obligations among municipalities, noting that urban aid municipalities like Paterson, Clifton, and Passaic have no obligation to provide affordable housing due to their status, thereby shifting the responsibility to towns like Little Falls. The council member pointed out that while there may be a theoretical need for additional affordable housing, the actual physical capacity and zoning implications must be carefully considered.

In terms of community engagement, the council opened the floor to public comments regarding agenda items, inviting participation from residents. Procedures for public comment were outlined. The council president requested that speakers provide their names and addresses for the record, with comments limited to three minutes unless extended at the council’s discretion.

The meeting also featured recognition of local achievements, with Mayor Damiano highlighting the accomplishments of Vinnie Martinello and Victoria Macaluso in the Knights of Columbus soccer shootout. Vinnie won first place at the local and regional levels and secured second place in the state competition, while Victoria claimed first place at all levels. The council also acknowledged the local seventh and eighth-grade boys soccer team, coached by Janice “Ted Lasso” O’Neal, for an impressive 10-1-1 season. The coach expressed gratitude for the team’s dedication and highlighted the fun and success of the season.

Council members provided updates on various community initiatives. One councilwoman mentioned that the health officer would present a final report at the next meeting and encouraged resident participation in the public health committee for the upcoming year. She also noted ongoing health reports available on the township website and the creation of a Facebook group for the health department to share information with residents.

Another councilwoman announced the launch of new social media pages for the township, designed to consolidate information about local events and updates. She shared details about upcoming events, including a tea party at the library, a Medicare information session, a breakfast with Santa organized by the ABC, and the town’s Christmas tree lighting ceremony on December 6. A councilman reminded attendees of the upcoming town parade scheduled for Saturday at 5 PM, with road closures beginning at 3 PM.