New Milford Borough Council Deliberates on Ordinance, Energy Efficiency, and Holiday Events
- Meeting Overview:
In a recent meeting, the New Milford Borough Council addressed several topics, including the tabling of Ordinance 2025 Column 2, updates on energy efficiency initiatives, and upcoming holiday events. Among these, the highlight was the council’s focus on enhancing energy efficiency in municipal buildings and community outreach efforts for home energy improvements. The meeting also saw the announcement of several holiday activities designed to foster community spirit.
The council’s decision to table Ordinance 2025 Column 2 to the next meeting was a procedural move that garnered unanimous support.
A significant portion of the meeting was devoted to the borough’s energy efficiency efforts, spearheaded by the Green Team. The team recently conducted a home energy outreach initiative, canvassing approximately 200 homes to educate residents on enhancing energy efficiency. This project, a collaboration between the borough and the Green Team, provides free energy assessments to help residents improve their home’s air quality and energy efficiency. The initiative aligns with the borough’s broader goal of improving municipal energy efficiency, which saw the Borough Hall’s rating rise from 48% to 65% this year, thanks to upgrades like LED lighting.
The council also touched upon a proposed redevelopment plan on Madison Avenue, which aims to convert a single-family dwelling into six one-bedroom apartments. Currently in the concept phase, this project represents ongoing efforts to address housing needs in the borough.
Holiday festivities were another focal point, with the council announcing a series of events to engage and uplift the community. These include the annual holiday tree lighting on December 7, followed by a nativity lighting on December 8, both serving as opportunities for food collection. A home decorating contest will also take place, with registration open until November 30 and voting beginning on December 7. In addition, Santa’s mailbox, located outside the police station, will be available from November 27 to December 24, allowing children to send letters to Santa without postage.
A holiday breakfast event is scheduled for December 6, featuring Santa’s arrival at 11 AM. Furthermore, the Milford Fire Department’s Operation Santa fundraiser will occur on December 14, encouraging community members to donate gifts for delivery by Santa and the fire department. These events highlight the borough’s dedication to fostering a sense of community and goodwill during the holiday season.
The Environmental Commission also presented plans for a native plant garden project on Pine Avenue, in collaboration with Sprout Farms. This initiative aims to establish a wetland-adapted garden that will serve as a passive park and educational site. The commission is also updating the community energy plan, with presentations expected by March and final approval by June.
Additionally, the Shade Tree Commission received a certificate of approval for its community forestry management plan.
The meeting also included reports on a Veterans Day ceremony and a Revolutionary War battle reenactment at historic Bridge Landing. Although the Veterans Day event faced inclement weather, it was well-attended and moving. The reenactment, coupled with video footage for public viewing, offered a historical perspective and educational opportunity for residents.
In closing, the council adopted several resolutions, with no public comments forthcoming, and extended well wishes for a happy Thanksgiving to attendees. The meeting concluded with a motion to enter a closed session, with no further public actions anticipated.
Michael Putrino
City Council Officials:
Randi Duffie (Council President), Hedy Grant (Councilwoman), Ira Grotsky (Councilman), Lisa Sandhusen (Councilwoman), Matthew Seymour (Councilman), Art Zeilner (Councilman)
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Meeting Type:
City Council
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Committee:
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Meeting Date:
11/24/2025
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Recording Published:
11/25/2025
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Duration:
23 Minutes
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Notability Score:
Routine
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State:
New Jersey
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County:
Bergen County
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Towns:
New Milford
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