Pompton Lakes Council Addresses Garbage Issues and Approves Infrastructure Projects
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Meeting Type:
City Council
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Meeting Date:
04/10/2024
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Recording Published:
04/18/2024
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Duration:
54 Minutes
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State:
New Jersey
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County:
Passaic County
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Towns:
Pompton Lakes
- Meeting Overview:
In a recent Pompton Lakes Borough Council meeting, attention focused on the community’s garbage disposal challenges and the approval of several infrastructure projects aimed at enhancing the borough’s environment and public spaces. Among the topics discussed were resolutions for the Haraldson Place habitat restoration and the Dos Highway improvement project, public concerns about garbage management, and the importance of transparency and communication regarding a tree ordinance affecting private property owners.
The persistent garbage issues in the Wanuqav area were a central concern, with the Department of Public Works having dispatched educational packets to local businesses and property owners to address the situation. Community members voiced their frustrations over the ongoing problem during the public comments segment of the meeting. Suggestions included hiring a retiree or a part-time employee to assist in cleanup efforts.
Another topic that garnered considerable attention was the approval of Resolution 179, which awarded a contract to Bolter Landscaping for the Haraldson Place habitat restoration project. This initiative aims to remove invasive species and rehabilitate the natural environment along the Ramapo River. Additionally, the council took steps to improve local law enforcement related to pets by appointing two Municipal Humane Law Enforcement Officers as per Resolution 183. Furthermore, Resolution 187 was discussed, which involved awarding a contract for engineering surveying services for the Dos Highway and Maple Avenue Improvement project, funded by a New Jersey Department of Transportation grant.
The meeting also included a report from the mayor, who provided updates on several community initiatives. A notable mention was the implementation of the Teen Mental Health First Aid program in the local high school and the expansion of college credit courses offered to students. Additionally, the announcement of the spring cleanup schedule and the promotion of a public infrastructure plan meeting were highlighted. The council conveyed their appreciation to various community organizations and individuals for their contributions to the town.
Public comments further brought to light concerns about the transparency of an ordinance regulating the removal of trees on private property. Residents sought clarity on the ordinance, which is a statutory requirement by the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection for flood prevention, and its application to private properties. A suggestion was made to change the title of the ordinance to provide clearer insight into its impact on private property owners. The council acknowledged the need for better communication and transparency and discussed the possibility of seeking grants to fund infrastructure improvements.
The deteriorating condition of the Department of Public Works garage was another point of concern raised by a community member. While recognizing the challenges faced by the DPW, the council acknowledged the need for a new facility and expressed intent to explore solutions within the constraints of the borough’s budget.
In addition to these discussions, the council approved motions for street closures for upcoming community events, including the Lakeside Middle School 8th grade award ceremony and the Pompton Lakes Volunteer Fire Department’s memorial service. The council also provided updates on forthcoming infrastructure projects such as the Wanuqav paver replacements, Lincoln Avenue phase 2 improvements, and the Howard Street improvements project.
Michael Serra
City Council Officials:
Erik DeLine, Ek Venin, Jennifer Polidori, Maria Kent, Bobby Cruz, Lisa Kihlberg
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Meeting Type:
City Council
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Committee:
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Meeting Date:
04/10/2024
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Recording Published:
04/18/2024
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Duration:
54 Minutes
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Notability Score:
Routine
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State:
New Jersey
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County:
Passaic County
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Towns:
Pompton Lakes
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