0:04A significant highlight of the meeting was the promotion of Officer Brian Shalia to the rank of Sergeant. The Chief of Police commended Shalia for his service since joining the force in July 2017, particularly noting his effective performance in the detective bureau and as an evidence officer. The council and the mayor expressed their appreciation for Shalia’s contributions and the broader efforts of the police department. Following Shalia’s promotion, the council welcomed Carlo Delama as the newest police officer, noting his previous service in Jersey City.

21:35The council addressed several key infrastructure projects during the meeting. Notably, two grant applications were submitted for the Williamsfield lighting project. One application sought $100,000 from the local area Recreation Improvement program, while the other requested $294,500 from Green Acres, a 50% matching grant. Efforts are underway to secure additional funding from Bergen County Open Space. In parallel, an engineer is preparing a proposal for construction management services related to the Main Street Improvement project. Discussions are ongoing regarding possible adjustments to the project’s scope or the need for further financial commitment.

The meeting also covered the installation of electric vehicle charging stations at Borough Hall, the library, and Knightsfield, set to begin this week. The installation is expected to be complete by the end of March, with the stations operational by late April or early May. Additionally, the PSENG gas main replacement project is scheduled to start by the end of March, affecting several local streets and lasting about three months. Homeowners in the affected areas will receive notices about the upcoming work.

0:04The council introduced two new ordinances for consideration, focusing on amending land use regulations and rescinding certain parking restrictions. Public hearings for these ordinances are scheduled for March 10. Additionally, the borough is awaiting a response from the Department of Environmental Protection regarding a permit application for a restoration project, while construction for a sand volleyball court is slated to begin in mid to late March.

21:35The council celebrated several community achievements and initiatives. The New Milford High School wrestling team was congratulated for winning the North One Group One state wrestling championship. In addition, the domestic violence awareness symposium held in New Milford inspired a similar program in neighboring Bergenfield. The council acknowledged the efforts of the Milford Arts Committee, which is preparing a presentation featuring various performances on May 31.

The meeting touched on budgetary concerns, with the 2025 budget delayed due to pending tax assessor valuation information, though its introduction is anticipated for March 24. The council continues to work with various departments to ensure a responsible budget for the coming year.

Several community events and initiatives were discussed, including the Milford annual Crescent Moonlighting event on February 27, which will serve as a food collection for the local pantry. The Senior Center Advisory Board is planning trips, among them a Broadway show and a potential river cruise. The library board is addressing budgetary needs, such as new computers and additional electrical outlets, while the All Seasons Chamber Players are scheduled to perform on October 9.

Environmental initiatives were also highlighted, with the council discussing ongoing work by the environmental and energy commission on a community energy planning grant. A survey is being developed to gather data for stakeholder meetings planned for March. The Hackensack River Nation Summit was rescheduled for April 22, and the green team continues its outreach on waste reduction education.