23:07A significant part of the meeting was dedicated to the enforcement of a snow removal ordinance, prompted by safety concerns regarding unshoveled sidewalks during winter. The urgency of this issue was underscored by a recent incident where a student had to walk in the street due to snow-covered sidewalks, raising concerns about pedestrian safety. The council discussed the responsibilities of homeowners and the borough’s Department of Public Works (DPW) in maintaining sidewalks. There was a consensus that while homeowners are responsible for clearing their sidewalks, the borough needs to ensure the safety of residents, especially children and the elderly.

The council debated the potential burden on seniors and other residents who may struggle to clear their sidewalks. A suggestion was made to involve community groups, such as local scouts, to assist those unable to maintain their sidewalks due to physical or financial constraints. The conversation also touched on the environmental impact of using salt and sand for ice management, highlighting the need to balance safety with environmental considerations. The council agreed to revisit the ordinance in a future meeting to refine the proposed measures and ensure they are fair and effective.

40:49In addition to the snow removal ordinance, the council addressed concerns surrounding a proposed data center project in Orangetown. Residents have expressed alarm over the potential noise and environmental impacts of the data center, which is anticipated to consume a substantial amount of power—enough to power 80,000 homes. A council member reported meeting with residents who were worried about the noise and other environmental effects, noting that the council needed to formally articulate their objections to the project. The council discussed the importance of attending planning board meetings to advocate for the residents affected by the project and possibly draft a resolution to express their concerns formally.

Public comments during the meeting reinforced the urgency of these issues. A resident named Matthew highlighted the dangers of walking on uncleared sidewalks, citing a personal experience with a close call involving a speeding vehicle. Another resident, Patrick, raised concerns about the environmental implications of existing road maintenance practices.

57:02The council also touched on a variety of other topics, including a proposed development on Old Tappan Road and the need for an independent traffic study related to this project. Concerns were raised about the accuracy of the developer’s traffic study, which had been used to secure planning board approval. Questions about the environmental impact of the development, particularly regarding tree removal and stormwater regulations, were also discussed. A suggestion was made for the environmental commission to control funds from tree removals to ensure they were used for beautification efforts, aligning with the town’s broader environmental goals.