The most heated topic was the state of the library parking lot, raised by resident Dana Witak. She questioned when the potholes would be filled, emphasizing that recent dry weather should have allowed for repairs. Witak insisted that the responsibility for the repairs should fall entirely on the township, not be shared with the library. This issue was brought up again by another resident, Mary K. Schmerman, who also expressed frustration over the delay. The council acknowledged the concerns but did not provide a specific timeline for the repairs. They assured that the public works department would be reminded of the urgency.

Parking issues near West Parkway and West Franklin were another significant topic of discussion. Representatives from Atlantic Health had contacted the township engineer to address parking problems near the hospital’s driveways, even though data showed only four or five accidents related to intersections, not the hospital’s access points. Despite the lack of strong statistical evidence, a proposal was made to limit parking around the hospital driveways, which would remove approximately eight parking spots. Council members debated the necessity of this action, with some suggesting the council review a map of the proposed restrictions before making a decision.

The council also addressed a complaint about a shrub obstructing sight lines on West Franklin, which had since been removed. There was discussion about whether further action should be taken to restrict parking on the northern side of the road, especially during Sunday services. It was noted that enforcing parking restrictions could push vehicles onto First Street, potentially creating new congestion. The council decided to monitor the situation before instituting any new regulations.

In infrastructure updates, Andrew’s report highlighted several projects. The borough of Bloomingdale will switch to Passaic County for health services in 2025 due to financial reasons. Green View Park is set to have a liner installed in its pond by October 1st. Reconstruction of Adam and Washington Streets is nearing completion, pending milling and paving. The 2024 Capital program includes bids for various sidewalk replacements and improvements, expected to be completed early in the fall.

A change order related to the Route 23 sewer project was presented, proposing an increase of $84,111 due to unexpected costs. Despite this, the total project cost remains under the original contract amount. The council also introduced Ordinance 2024-415, concerning the elevation of flood-prone homes, with a funding appropriation of nearly $2 million. The timing and progress of grant funding and the management of these long-term projects were discussed.

The council covered several other topics, including the recruitment of volunteers for the Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) and the introduction of a draft ordinance to address parking concerns previously identified. The Emergency Management Group emphasized the need for new members due to the existing volunteer pool being heavily engaged in other services.

In the realm of public safety, the First Aid Squad reported 86 calls in July, bringing the total number of calls from January to June to 666. Upcoming community events include October Fest, scheduled for September 28, featuring ten food trucks and various rides for children, and a pancake breakfast on September 22 at Applebee’s to benefit the Panic American Legion Post.

Council members provided updates on various committees and projects. Councilwoman Melissa Florance-Lynch congratulated new members of Engine Company 1 and noted plans for the Economic Development Committee’s August 28 meeting. The Flood Committee is expected to schedule a meeting in September. Lynch also highlighted an upcoming bus trip for seniors and other community events like the National Night Out and a golf outing organized by the PB Rotary.

Councilman David Kohle mentioned the progress of the veterans wall at the high school, with ongoing concrete work. Councilwoman Kyle Russell discussed changes in personnel, including the upcoming departure of long-term coordinator Rudy Stein, and mentioned the Environmental Commission’s efforts to collect bags for track benches and the timeline for a styrofoam drive in January 2025.

The meeting also touched on the complexities of regulating political signage. While individual rights to free speech allow for political expressions, the council does not regulate signs placed in the right-of-way unless they pose a traffic hazard. Signs on township property are not allowed and can be removed. The council can establish ordinances to regulate the placement of political signs on public property.