01:42The most notable issue at the meeting centered around ordinance number eight, which proposed a 3.5% increase in the municipal budget. The increase, as explained during the session, was primarily attributed to rising costs in statutory payments, insurance, and contractual salary obligations, including health benefits and social security. Approximately $200,000 of the increase was earmarked for the public safety director’s salary and raises for city council members. A council member queried the rationale behind this increase, expressing concern about moving forward without a clear budget plan, comparing it to hiring a public safety director without a job description. The need for fiscal responsibility was emphasized, especially as the increase was likely to result in higher taxes for residents—estimated at an additional $165 per year for a house assessed at $150,000.

07:35The debate revealed differing perspectives on the council’s responsibility to taxpayers, with some members urging caution and transparency in budgetary decisions. One member insisted on keeping the matter in public discourse. Tensions rose when another member suggested that constant criticism of majority decisions was unproductive, leading to a discussion about the council’s duty to the community.

08:17In addition to budgetary concerns, the council addressed ordinance number nine, which involved amending city code related to vehicles and traffic. A council member noted the prior installation of stop signs on Franklin Avenue in 2023, although their inclusion in the current amendment process led to some confusion over the timeline. Discussion also touched on the potential for additional stop signs and traffic calming measures on Franklin Boulevard, with suggestions to revisit the implementation of four-way stop signs to reduce speeding. The conversation pointed to ongoing efforts to improve traffic safety, including studies to determine effective solutions, though specific funding and timelines remained undetermined.

17:19The meeting further featured discussions on various resolutions. Notably, the council approved Resolution 91, granting permission for a corn drop event organized by the Pleasantville Jingle Joe football organization, scheduled for June 28 and July 5. Resolution involved awarding a substantial contract for improvements to Ridgewood Avenue to El Verizo Concrete Company, amounting to $1,551,633.25, which passed unanimously.

26:29Resolution 96 authorized the demolition of 23 Old Turnpike by American Demolition Corporation for $70,000. The timeline for the demolition was questioned, with assurances provided that permits had been submitted, and feedback from the code department was awaited. The urgency to avoid delays in the demolition process was stressed.

Further resolutions focused on administrative and operational matters, including authorization for emergency medical services proposals and emergency temporary appropriations. A notable add-on item, Resolution 99, awarded a contract for professional engineering services to CME Associates, linked to Ridgewood and New Jersey Department of Transportation projects.

19:15The council reviewed the bill list, covering various expenditures such as firefighter training, equipment purchases, and utility costs.

In a notable moment, a community member addressed the meeting, calling for prayers for a recently deceased local youth. The council echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the importance of providing emotional support to grieving families and students, with a brief counseling service mentioned as part of the community’s response.