The most contentious topic was the debate surrounding the policy for street dedications. Council members deliberated over the appropriateness of a 25-year residency requirement for individuals to be honored with a street dedication. Opinions varied, with some members considering the duration excessive and others supporting a longer period to ensure the honor is reserved for individuals who have made substantial contributions to the community. The conversation extended to alternative ways to honor residents, such as using additional signage instead of renaming streets, similar to practices in Manhattan. The council also discussed naming parks or benches after individuals but expressed concerns about the potential for numerous dedications diminishing the significance of such honors. The absence of a resident who had previously advocated for street dedications was noted, leading to a consensus for further research into practices from other municipalities. Consequently, the council decided to table the discussion until next year.

Another primary focus of the meeting was the progress on The Oaks Park project. Updates were provided on the preliminary design process, following feedback from Green Acres funding representatives who requested modifications to enlarge the outdoor pavilion while maintaining a proportional enclosed area. The council noted that an architect had been engaged, and preliminary drawings would be reviewed to ensure compliance with requirements. Public hearings are anticipated after the design phase completion, with construction potentially beginning by the summer. Concerns were raised about the architect selection process, which was clarified to have followed a three-bid minimum requirement, with the lowest qualified bid chosen.

The meeting also addressed plans for a new facility at Oaks Park, designed to serve multiple purposes, including storage for the Department of Public Works (DPW), office space, restrooms, and a garage. The building is being constructed to meet Green Acres requirements and will house a recreation office. There was a proposal to repurpose the old office space as a pantry for social services, providing a quieter and more private environment. A 3D rendering of the new building is expected to be available early next year for residents to view through newsletters.

Financial reports from the Old Tappan Golf Course revealed a robust performance, with revenue exceeding projections. The golf course manager reported a total revenue of $997,315.94, compared to a budget of $825,000, resulting in a net income of $209,000 for the borough. Favorable weather conditions in November 2024 contributed to a 38% increase in revenue compared to the previous year. However, the report acknowledged challenges such as unexpected equipment maintenance expenses that had to be covered by the operating budget.

The council also discussed an extension granted by the Department of Transportation for the D Wolfe project, allowing additional time to compile necessary information, with plans to go out to bid early next year. Concerns about the paving schedule for Perry Street were raised, emphasizing the need to coordinate final drainage work with paving to prevent disruption. The council reiterated the importance of keeping residents informed and involved in the process.

Issues at the Enclave development were also addressed, specifically the planting of trees below the specified caliper size. The council discussed potential solutions, such as leaving the trees in place and focusing on repairing nearby broken sidewalks, which had not been part of the developer’s approval.

Community updates included the successful recruitment of a new librarian to replace the retiring current librarian and the installation of hotspots by a service provider. The council received reports from the Office of Emergency Management on a recent election and plans for hazard mitigation projects. The veterans’ committee invited council members to a year-end lunch or dinner and discussed plans for memorials and designations for veterans.