The meeting, held in conjunction with Mayor McGuire, focused extensively on the budget’s severe difficulties due to a combination of increased operating costs and inflation. As introduced by Chief Financial Officer, Mr. Luppino, the Municipal Budget has been rocked by a variety of increases such as the garbage contract’s expiration that led to cost increases of $1.1 million, heightened pension, health insurance, operating expenses, and utility costs among others. These factors sum up to a staggering increase of $1,162,336 in expenses.

The budget’s introduction generated debate among the Council members, with Councilman Hogan expressing concern about increased spending amidst foreseeable cost increases, and Councilman Sokoloski suggesting that the 0% increase in the previous year’s budget might have been a mistake. Despite the discord, the Council moved forward with the first reading of the budget, expected to be adopted by July 12th, pending state feedback.

Simultaneously, the council tackled the task of incorporating cannabis regulations into the borough’s policy. As per the new rules, licenses will be permitted in Northvale for operating cannabis establishments, albeit under certain zoning restrictions, maintaining a strict distance from public places like schools or houses of worship. Only two establishments per license class can operate within Northvale. Fines for violations will escalate with each subsequent offense, with a license potentially revoked after the third conviction.

The meeting also saw the introduction of various financial and zoning issues. Key projects were outlined, including the 2023 Road Improvement Program and the acquisition of a new dump truck for Public Works. The proposed changes to the capital budget were approved with a detailed amended budget on file with the Borough Clerk.

The Council additionally recognized the Department of Community Affairs Lead Grant Assistance Program, an initiative aimed at inspecting lead-based paint hazards in certain residential rental properties.

Finally, the meeting concluded with the discussion of the prohibition of certain materials to ensure the sewer system’s proper operation, individual reports from council members representing their respective departments, and plans for summer events.