The council meeting was dominated by discussions on affordable housing, following a legislative overhaul that shifted responsibilities from the Council on Affordable Housing to the New Jersey Department of Community Affairs. This change has imposed aggressive deadlines for municipalities, including Oakland, to meet their affordable housing obligations. The borough has faced objections from various developers regarding its affordable housing plan, leading to ongoing negotiations. Successful settlements were achieved with two developers, Roper and Leone Brothers, while talks with TDC Acquisitions continued without resolution.

A representative from the borough’s legal team explained the preference for negotiating settlements over litigation. They highlighted the risks of a builder’s remedy lawsuit, which could permit developers to bypass local zoning laws and impose unwanted developments on the borough. Such outcomes could result in significant legal fees and loss of control over zoning and development decisions. The council and public engaged in a dialouge about the implications of affordable housing settlements and regional obligations, emphasizing the need to maintain local governance control.

The meeting also addressed the borough’s substantial affordable housing obligation of over 27,000 units, driven by regional needs. A metaphor likened the allocation of affordable housing units to slices of pie. A council member expressed gratitude to professionals who assisted with the process, acknowledging the complexity and delays due to the state employing only nine retired judges to handle over 600 challenges.

Public commentary was led by resident Greg Hughes, who raised concerns about the lack of notification for properties near proposed developments, specifically the Roper property. Hughes questioned zoning changes and expressed fears about environmental risks due to sewer capacity issues. The officials clarified the notification requirements and acknowledged the need for better communication with adjacent property owners.

The council also discussed the impacts of new developments on community infrastructure, including traffic and school enrollment. The anticipated construction of 210 new housing units raised concerns about increased school enrollment and traffic congestion. However, under current laws, the council and planning board are not permitted to consider school population implications in their decisions. Residents expressed anxiety over property values and neighborhood dynamics, particularly regarding the construction of rental units.

Assemblyman Bob, representing the district, described the housing legislation as a “total nightmare” for local legislators. Residents feel burdened by state mandates imposing high-density housing on communities already facing infrastructure challenges. The assemblyman highlighted the disconnect between local experiences and legislative decisions.

In addition to affordable housing, the meeting addressed garbage collection services and road conditions. The council negotiated a six-month extension with Suburban to ensure continued garbage collection until June 2026. Discussions also covered ongoing gas line work affecting roads, with assurances from Public Service representatives that all affected roads would be paved in the spring.

The meeting included recognition of Council members McCann and Sinski, with public expressions of gratitude for their service. Resident Ryan Schwarzfagger acknowledged their commitment and encouraged community involvement through volunteerism. Schwarzfagger also updated residents on local programming aired by Oakland TV.

Contention arose over the use of a municipal vehicle, specifically a Chevy Tahoe, by a council member. Concerns were voiced about the high mileage and potential misuse of the vehicle for personal commuting. The matter was referred to the borough attorney and possibly the prosecutor’s office for further investigation.

In another notable matter, a council member reported on a labor dispute involving the police department, which had filed an unfair labor practice charge against the borough. A decision favored the borough, emphasizing the importance of maintaining an apolitical police force.

The meeting concluded with acknowledgments of Councilman John McCann’s service, including a proclamation from the mayor and a resolution from the New Jersey Senate and General Assembly commending his contributions to governance. The next council meeting was scheduled for January 6th.