04:26The meeting commenced with the acknowledgment of several personnel changes, including the retirement of Carolyn Green and Ralph Venttorini from the building department, and the promotion of Diane Warick to Sergeant of the Ramsey Police Department. Following these announcements, the meeting shifted to address the public’s concerns, particularly surrounding the pickleball courts.

15:38Nick Capuano, representing the pickleball community, presented a petition signed by over 300 residents, emphasizing the sport’s growing popularity and the need for improved court conditions and scheduling. Capuano highlighted issues such as uneven court surfaces and limited access due to ordinance amendments that restrict play hours. He urged the council to collaborate with pickleball players to reassess the scheduling and court conditions.

21:44Following Capuano’s comments, John Hannah, speaking for the tennis community, expressed solidarity with pickleball players and underscored the importance of outdoor recreational activities. Hannah noted that while noise from the courts was audible, it was not disruptive, and emphasized the value of community engagement through sports, particularly for children.

31:41Other residents voiced opinions on the operational hours of the pickleball courts, with some advocating for extended playtime to accommodate families and working adults. A significant portion of the public comments revolved around noise complaints from residents living near the courts. Desmond Lim contested the noise concerns, arguing that those who moved near the courts were aware of their existence and should not seek to restrict their use.

34:41The debate over noise and access was further highlighted by Roseanne Cameer, who emphasized the community benefits of the courts and the sense of togetherness they foster. Cameer pointed out that the courts provide a space for intergenerational interaction and physical activity, particularly for the youth.

55:55In response to the varying perspectives, the council acknowledged the need for a balanced approach to address the noise complaints while maintaining the community’s recreational activities. A suggestion was made to form a committee comprising representatives from both sides of the debate to explore potential solutions. Additionally, the introduction of an ordinance aimed at improving the pickleball courts was mentioned, which includes resurfacing and possibly adding lighting for evening play.

01:00:29As the discussion continued, a resident inquired about the timeline for the ordinance related to Finch Park improvements. The mayor clarified that the introduction of the ordinance was scheduled for August, with a vote in September. This process would involve a public hearing, allowing for further community input.

01:33:44The meeting also addressed various resolutions and ordinances, notably the authorization of an increase in bid and quote thresholds in accordance with state modifications to local public contract law. Additionally, a multi-purpose bond ordinance was introduced, allocating funds for borough improvements, including the resurfacing of pickleball and basketball courts at Finch Park, and emergency services communication upgrades.

06:34Resolution 135 confirmed Diane Warick’s appointment as Sergeant in the Ramsey Police Department, following the retirement of Sergeant Sanders. The promotion process involved recommendations from the police chief and the public safety committee.