The council’s opposition to Senate Bill 2347 was rooted in the defense of local zoning control, which is seen as crucial for managing land use and development tailored to the specific needs of the community. The resolution passed by the council highlighted the importance of maintaining the authority to make zoning decisions at the local level, which could be undermined by the proposed state legislation. The bill would broadly allow for the establishment of ADUs, potentially affecting existing state land use regulations and heightening environmental risks.

During the meeting, John Zeo, a senior planner, presented on amendments to the fair housing act, detailing the elimination of immunity and the introduction of a presumption of validity for housing numbers now assigned to the DCA. Zeo emphasized the potential for litigation and underscored the pressing deadlines for municipal compliance. The importance of early engagement in this process was stressed, including the consideration of an affordable housing subcommittee. The impact of this legislation on the municipality was discussed, with a particular focus on vacant land analysis, redevelopment opportunities, and the need for consistency between municipal plans and the state’s updated development plan.

The council also engaged in discussions about the complexities of affordable housing requirements and the borough’s obligation to meet unmet needs. Factors such as commuting patterns, job locations, job growth, and household sizes were considered in the calculation of these obligations. The absence of mass transit was recognized as a factor unlikely to reduce the borough’s obligation. Members debated the repercussions of noncompliance, which include losing control over planning and zoning powers and the threat of legal challenges from developers.

Furthermore, the council addressed the appointment of Carol Hartman to the senior advisory committee and Bruce Hoil as the DPW Administration Assistant. The consent resolution, which encapsulates bill payments, bid awards, and staff appointments, was approved. Public hearings on the 2024 Municipal budget and ordinance 1256 d24, which pertains to golf course fees, led to the adoption of the budget and the finalization of the ordinance.

The council proceeded to adopt ordinance 1257 d24, regarding the salary ordinance for 2024. Alongside these administrative actions, old business items, such as the demolition of a building known as Oak’s House, were considered. A member of the public recognized the council’s efforts in passing a tree ordinance and brought up issues concerning downed wires.

Updates from various community departments were also a focal point of the meeting. The library announced upcoming events, including a Mets celebration and a Mother’s Day card-making program. The OEM report highlighted training and Memorial Day celebration preparations. The finance department is seeking an assistant tax collector following a resignation. The planning board’s meeting agenda includes Ultan Manor, the master plan, and affordable housing discussions. The golf course and DPW reported on spring cleanups and maintenance, while the police department noted a decline in applicant numbers for a new officer position. The Recreation department’s opening day was deemed a success, and the historical committee is set to host a guest speaker. Old Tappan was acknowledged as a 2023 New Jersey healthy town to watch by the Board of Health. The council president updated on local school budgets, enrollment figures, senior activities, and emergency response statistics. The mayor outlined upcoming events, such as the high school budget presentation and a town hall meeting with State Senator Holly Schepisi.