A major point of contention revolved around the borough’s management of tree maintenance and removal. Frustration was expressed over instances where trees were removed without proper notification to council members. This situation prompted questions about who holds decision-making authority and the necessity of a formalized process for tree-related actions. The absence of communication before the removal of a tree at the corner of Brook Mountain Way led to a heated discussion about transparency and the need for council approval unless immediate action was required. A member emphasized the importance of voting on non-emergency matters, advocating for clear communication and collaboration in such decisions.

These included issues with leaning trees on Court and a declining tree near power lines on Silven Drive. The presence of dead trees at locations like 2544 Valley Stream Drive and Oldwood Road underscored the ongoing challenge of addressing tree hazards. Concerns were particularly acute regarding a tree on Hawthorne Avenue with numerous dead branches posing a risk to the public. The need for pruning to mitigate these dangers was emphasized by members seeking an efficient and effective approach to tree maintenance.

In response to these challenges, a suggestion was made to develop a prioritization system for tree maintenance tasks. This system, referred to as a “risk assessment matrix,” would help classify tasks based on urgency and importance, balancing immediate resident concerns with budgetary constraints. The idea, originally proposed by council member Joan Garner, was revisited as a means to optimize resource allocation while maintaining safety and resident satisfaction. Members debated the practicalities of this approach, considering the need to incorporate public feedback into decision-making while avoiding reactive spending that could lead to budget overruns.

Further complicating matters, the council discussed the impact of budget cuts on the municipal shade tree program, particularly the lack of funding for proactive pruning. The chairman highlighted the risk of neglecting tree maintenance, warning of potential crises during storms if trees are not properly pruned on a regular basis. The management goal outlined in the community forestry management plan recommends a 10-year rotational cycle for pruning the entire tree population, which is currently unachievable due to financial constraints. The urgency of addressing this issue was stressed, with an acknowledgment that current budget allocations are insufficient for comprehensive tree maintenance.

In addition to maintenance concerns, the council addressed a proposal from an engineering firm regarding the planting of 18 trees along an avenue recently developed for warehouses. While the plan was initially accepted, some members expressed surprise at its sudden presentation and questioned the appropriateness of voting on it without prior review. Despite these concerns, the motion was approved to avoid missing the fall planting season, though it sparked a debate about the species choice, specifically the introduction of non-native Japanese trees.

The meeting also included discussions about applying for a New Jersey urban and community forest management plan grant. A motion was made for the chairman to meet with the borough’s grant writer to pursue this funding opportunity, which could aid in addressing some of the identified tree maintenance challenges. Members agreed on the necessity of a structured plan to guide the application process and enhance the borough’s ability to manage its tree population effectively.