In a recent Moonachie Borough Council meeting, numerous resolutions and transactions were approved, ranging from infrastructure improvements and law enforcement appointments to financial agreements. The most significant occurrence was the approval and adoption of the 2023 fiscal year budget and honoring the retirement of Councilmember Kathy Kinsella, who dedicated 25 years to public service.
The key highlight of the meeting was the unanimous approval and adoption of the Municipal Budget for the 2023 fiscal year (Resolution #23-164), allocating $9,301,815 for municipal purposes. This budget includes an increase of 1%, or $83,437, in municipal funding.
Addressing the tax implications of the budget, Administrator Manuel Martinez noted that the municipal tax increase would be a modest 1.5%, or $55 for the average assessed house. Mayor Dennis Vaccaro emphasized the necessity of careful budget planning to prevent future increases.
Several resolutions concerning municipal infrastructure were also passed during the meeting. Notably, Resolution #23-148 approved a contract of $101,637.50 for improvements to the Joseph Street Tennis Courts, demonstrating the council’s focus on infrastructure maintenance and improvement.
Nicholas J. Fugnitti’s appointment as a Police Officer via Resolution #23-151, contingent upon the completion of a psychological examination, also reflected the council’s emphasis on law enforcement. In addition, Sean Sabato was appointed as part-time Police Communication Clerk with an hourly rate of $21.51 (Resolution #23-160), further strengthening the borough’s commitment to public safety.
Councilmember Kathy Kinsella, retiring after 25 years of service, was honored at the meeting. All members expressed their appreciation for her dedication, and Kinsella expressed her intent to become involved in a scholarship fund post-retirement.
Finally, the council additionally authorized Mayor Vaccaro and the Borough Clerk to sign a Shared Services Agreement for a three-year period (Resolution #23-158) and approved a renewal of the Plenary Retail Consumption License for Bazzarelli Pizzeria & Restaurant, Inc. (Resolution #23-158), as they complied with all legal requirements.
