The meeting, held on September 2, 2025, saw the introduction of an ordinance to allocate a 25.4% matching fund for the creation of a playground designed specifically for children with disabilities. The proposed playground will be located off Grant Avenue at Uback Park, a site currently featuring a soccer field and a girls’ softball field. The total cost of the project is estimated to be $540,000, with the ordinance scheduled for a second reading on October 7, 2025.

Additionally, the board celebrated the opening of a new Pre-K center, which will serve up to 135 students aged three to four. The Deputy Mayor expressed satisfaction with the transformation of the building over the past eight months, highlighting the collaboration between the school district and municipal government. This partnership is considered rare and vital for achieving community goals. The cost for parents to send a child to this Pre-K program is estimated between $14,000 and $15,000 for the year, representing significant savings due to state grants that subsidize these expenses.

The renovation of the Pre-K facility involved extensive work, including resizing windows, updating sewer systems, and installing advanced fire suppression and HVAC systems. This project was funded through commercial ratables from new developments. The strategic plan aims to modify the existing middle school to accommodate sixth graders by September 2026, thereby freeing up classroom space in grammar schools and expanding pre-kindergarten education for all children in Nutley.

A resident, Joan Rabino, raised a concern about the costs associated with the Pre-K project, asking for clarification on the total expenditure. It was explained that while the community benefits from the state grant program, there are no “free lunches,” and someone ultimately pays for the services. The Deputy Mayor acknowledged the hard work of laborers involved in the renovation and the oversight of a commissioner to maintain fiscal responsibility throughout the project.

In other business, the board addressed several resolutions, including the acquisition of specialized professional services for a certified tree expert, deemed essential for forestry services in Nutley. The municipal clerk is authorized to advertise for a request for qualifications for a Township Forester, with submissions due by October 1, 2025.

The board also approved the transfer of sick leave days from one employee to another. Additionally, a 2012 Ford truck was authorized for donation to the Nutley Board of Education, and refunds were issued for recreation program fees and overpayments of tax charges. These resolutions passed unanimously.

Mayor Kelly introduced a resolution recognizing Hispanic Heritage Month, emphasizing the importance of acknowledging Hispanic culture and contributions. This resolution, along with one recognizing the International Day of World Indigenous People, received unanimous approval.

The meeting concluded with public comments, where Salvatore Ferrero, president of the Nutley Board of Education, expressed gratitude for the board’s support, highlighting the successful opening of the Pre-K center. Superintendent Kent Bñena reported a positive start to the school year with over 100 families visiting schools in preparation.