At a recent meeting, the council discussed the return of overnight parking enforcement, which had been suspended during the pandemic. Traffic complaints related to parking have been increasing, necessitating this change. Council President Randi Duffie and other members deliberated over the previous practice of excusing certain cars from parking restrictions and the complexities it entailed. Thus, they decided on an online system allowing residents to exempt themselves from overnight parking restrictions. The system, set to be implemented on January 2nd, 2024, tracks license plates, not addresses, and allows for a certain number of exemptions per month. The council also took into account residents without computer access, discussing the possibility of allowing phone calls for exemptions.

Further discussion revolved around the implementation of a ticketing system for parking violations. The council members considered the possibility of multiple tickets for repeated violations and the role of the court in handling such cases. They also acknowledged the need for an information campaign to familiarize residents with the new system. Lieutenant Pisano and Captain Deo were identified as key individuals who would assist in disseminating information. The council expressed optimism that this new system would alleviate parking complaints and free up resources for emergency calls.

Councilwoman Hedy Grant proposed the formation of a Committee on the Arts to organize various artistic events, contributing to the borough’s Sustainable New Jersey certification. The council members supported the idea, recognizing the positive impact it would have on community engagement. Grant’s vision includes displaying artwork at B Hall and creating a sculpture garden at the library.

The council also announced upcoming events, encouraging residents to participate in activities such as the annual holiday tree lighting, menorah lighting, and Santa visits by helicopter. In addition, they highlighted the New Milford Police Department’s toy drive and the collection of letters to Santa.

The meeting also addressed several ongoing engineering projects. These included traffic signal installation, road milling, and paving, as well as the completion of Prospect Park playground and basketball court lighting. The council expressed enthusiasm for these developments, particularly in regard to the ticketing system and the Committee on the Arts.

The council also introduced various ordinances, including one to amend the Board of Health’s General ordinances by adding a prohibition on outdoor feeding, and another to amend traffic regulations to include exceptions to overnight parking regulations during specific periods. Public hearings for each were scheduled for the December 18th meeting.

Councilwoman Ira Grotsky shared a letter from CVS’s regional manager, commending the work of Sergeant Derek Medic, Detective Jeffrey Kesy, and Detective Samuel Jeras. They had successfully identified and charged a repeat offender linked to nine thefts targeting CVS stores in Bergen County, earning praise for their invaluable contribution to the New Milford Police Department.

Councilwoman Lisa Sandhusen highlighted the TRX Plastics recycling program being rolled out by the Green Team, and Councilman Matthew Seymour emphasized the significance of cybersecurity training for the borough’s security and cost savings.