The most prominent topic was the detailed update on the ongoing improvement projects within the Passaic County park system, notably in the Highlands region. The board announced substantial investments in recreational and open-space facilities, highlighting two major projects: the Highlands Rail Trail and the State County Archaeological Center in Ringwood. Over $11 million has been invested in the Highlands region over the past three years. This includes acquiring the 100-acre Spring Brook Acres, a former horse farm in Bloomingdale, which is being developed into a new recreational facility. This project is currently in the planning stage, with a $1.5 million remediation process underway to address previous land conditions, expected to be completed within six months. Involvement from the community will be a key component in shaping the park’s amenities, with plans for a design contract to be awarded to TNM and Associates.

Mayor Damato of Bloomingdale participated in discussions, expressing strong support for the park project and emphasizing the importance of community input. He highlighted potential benefits for local businesses and the enhancement of recreational facilities in the area, noting residents’ requests for additional fields like soccer and softball. The mayor expressed confidence in the county’s ability to deliver high-quality projects, referencing past successful park developments, and conveyed a desire to partner with the county to ensure the park reflects community interests.

The Highlands Rail Trail project, budgeted at $3.6 million, was also discussed. The first phase is nearly complete, pending signage installation, with a formal ribbon-cutting ceremony anticipated. Plans for the second phase, which will extend the trail another two miles, are in the design stage, with bidding expected to begin early next year.

In addition to these projects, the board addressed the rehabilitation of the Harry S. Breland House, the only remaining habitable building on the former Veland Reinmith farm, now referred to as the Highlands Meadow property. This rehabilitation aims to enhance the site for educational purposes and establish it as the future home of the Passaic County Archaeological Center.

The meeting also highlighted the addition of an inclusive playground at Camp Hope in West Milford, funded by a significant grant from Green Acres. This playground, featuring ADA-compliant amenities, has been well-received by the local community.

The meeting further involved discussions on Capital Ordinance 2025-06, concerning improvements at PCman Preserve, which includes a bond provision of $2,180,000. The ordinance aims to enhance the park’s walkability and flood mitigation efforts, supported by Greenacres grants secured over the last two cycles. A public hearing for this ordinance was held, with unanimous support from the commissioners present. Public comments underscored the significance of accessibility and community involvement in the park’s development. Suggestions included establishing a wetlands viewing area for educational purposes and addressing road accessibility to facilitate safer access for pedestrians and cyclists.

In a separate segment of the meeting, the board issued a proclamation recognizing Shotti Taha for being named the State County Coach of the Year for the 2024-2025 cross country season at Passaic County Technical Institute (PCTI). Taha was acknowledged for his achievement as the first coach to lead PCTI to a county title in cross country since 1990. He expressed gratitude for the recognition, attributing the award to his athletes’ hard work and teamwork, and set ambitions for a state sectional title in the upcoming season.

Another proclamation honored Jonathan Pah, the county engineer, who is transitioning to a new position with Wayne Township. His contributions to infrastructure and transportation within Passaic County were acknowledged. Pah expressed pride in his team’s accomplishments, which included over $400 million worth of construction projects during his tenure, and he looked forward to his successor continuing the department’s work.