The meeting opened with the swearing-in of newly elected council members Bill Houston and Tyler Pontier. Both expressed deep gratitude for the community’s support and emphasized their commitment to addressing residents’ concerns and enhancing Morris Plains as a desirable place to live. These sentiments aligned with the mayor’s remarks, which honored the dedication of outgoing council members and set expectations for continued service excellence.

A primary focus was the borough’s infrastructure development, with the mayor detailing substantial progress made throughout 2024. The council highlighted the replacement of nearly century-old water mains and service lines on Glenbrook Road, Bola Court, and Keenan Place. Additionally, eight roads were paved during the summer months, with Glenbrook Road slated for complete repaving by the third quarter of 2025. These upgrades reflect a broader commitment to enhancing the borough’s infrastructure to improve safety and accessibility for residents.

Furthermore, the council celebrated the completion of two new pickleball courts and enhanced fencing at Wong Park, along with ongoing orders for new playground equipment. These improvements are part of broader efforts to bolster recreational facilities across Morris Plains.

In a move to preserve local natural beauty, the borough acquired property at One Jimere Drive, covering a residential structure and nearly three acres. This acquisition aims to protect the area’s wildlife and maintain its scenic value.

However, the substantial cost of upgrading the municipal pool, estimated at nearly $3 million, prompted discussions on potential alternative recreational options for the space.

Public safety was another vital discussion point, with the fire department making notable acquisitions, including a new mini pumper scheduled for delivery by early 2026, and transitioning the part-time fire prevention chief position to full-time. The police department saw internal promotions, with Robert Gild becoming Lieutenant and Joe Hines advancing to Sergeant. The police chief also initiated discussions on expanding or renovating the department.

The council’s agenda included discussions on organizational and committee changes. A motion was made to remove resolutions three and four from the agenda due to insufficient support, highlighting the necessity of collaboration and caution in appointing new members to standing committees, particularly those related to public safety. The council confirmed nominations for various liaison roles.

Community service and engagement were emphasized, with recognitions for the Morris Plains Rotary Club and the Presbyterian Church for their longstanding contributions to the borough. A mental health symposium in September provided valuable resources to the community, and the council announced plans for a town hall meeting to address affordable housing obligations.

Councilwoman Joan Gard’s resignation, effective January 8th, was announced, attributed to her husband’s health issues. Gard reflected on her six years of service, highlighting initiatives such as outdoor dining ordinances and modernization of borough communications. Her resignation will prompt the Morris Plains Democratic Committee to nominate candidates to fill the vacancy, with a swearing-in scheduled for February 6th.

The meeting concluded with a community service award presented to the Morris Plains Presbyterian Church in recognition of its 150 years of service.