One notable issue discussed was the ongoing stormwater management problem affecting properties near Crystal Lake and surrounding areas. Multiple residents voiced their frustrations over flooding and runoff issues exacerbated by recent construction and development projects. Frank Raco, a resident from Lakeshore Drive, detailed the complexities of the lakefront community’s interactions with the RML corporation, particularly concerning a loan application through the dam loan program. Raco stressed the precarious financial situation of RML, noting that a recent shareholder vote allowed homeowners to de-annex, which could undermine the financial stability of the corporation. He criticized the town for not adequately addressing the environmental impacts of runoff into Crystal Lake and warned about the significant challenges the community would face without town assistance.

Elin, another resident, echoed Raco’s sentiments, urging the borough to maintain a partnership to address stormwater management and preserve natural assets. Liz Carletta, a Crystal Lake homeowner, also emphasized the burden of stormwater runoff on local lakes, insisting that the town must continue its efforts to manage these issues. Adam El further stressed the importance of municipal responsibility in managing developments that impact public bodies of water such as Alman Brook and Pond Brook. He urged the council to consider new laws that could allow them to tax developers and municipalities contributing to stormwater problems. “If the town continues to ignore developments that are happening through that stormwater system,” El warned, “it’s going to get much much worse.”

The council acknowledged these concerns and discussed several related administrative matters, including a contract adjustment request of $2,600 by borough engineers for additional efforts spent on construction administration and inspection related to the Jerome Avenue Phase One and Lake View Terrace storm sewer improvements. The urgency of this project was highlighted, with progress already made on Jerome Avenue, aiming to complete the project to allow for further enhancements, including repaving in the next year’s road program.

The council also addressed public safety protocols and community relations. A resident recounted an incident involving the Oakland Fire Department and the Oakland Police Department, where a parking violation complaint led to police involvement. The resident expressed concern about the communication breakdown between her household and the fire department. Another resident detailed a history of disturbances with neighbors and questioned the motives behind filing an official police report for a “simple minor violation,” describing such actions as “objectionable and counterproductive” to fostering community support.

Scheduling conflicts in the local recreation program, particularly related to Jewish holidays, were another significant topic of discussion. Mike Guino, the Recreation Commissioner, addressed the council about rescheduling football games that conflicted with Jewish holidays. Despite initial scheduling conflicts, Guino communicated with the recreation director from Fair Lawn, who agreed to reschedule games away from Yom Kippur. This compromise was aimed at respecting community values. Carla Rodriguez and Katrina Larson, both residents, voiced their frustrations with the abrupt changes, emphasizing the impact on their families and questioning the decision-making process. They criticized the lack of communication and the reliance on social media complaints rather than proper channels for addressing such issues.

The council also discussed various resolutions and administrative matters, including the approval of raffle licenses for local charities and the hiring of a utility court clerk. They reviewed the tentative calendar for 2025, making adjustments to accommodate holidays such as Rosh Hashanah and Veterans Day. Streetscape design standards were also reviewed, with the council expressing support for further refining these standards based on feedback from the planner and the Shade Tree Commission.

In terms of ongoing projects, the mayor provided updates on several municipal efforts, including the removal and replacement of spans on the Patriot Way Bridge, the completion of milling and paving of the tennis courts, and upcoming paving work on Franklin Avenue. The mayor also reminded attendees about the importance of road safety as schools resumed, urging caution around school buses and children walking in the area.

The Oakland Public Library reported a successful summer reading program and detailed upcoming events, such as book club meetings and children’s programming. The council also noted the significance of local access television and encouraged community sponsorship to support broadcast capabilities.