The council’s discussion of ordinance 24-23 revealed concerns about the necessity and practicality of requiring a lead paint certificate every three years for rental properties. While some members voiced dissatisfaction with the law’s implications, the council ultimately voted in favor of the ordinance. The discussion was further fueled by comments from the public, including a resident who owns a rental property built in the 1890s, questioning the inspections’ relevance due to the unavailability of lead paint for purchase. The council deliberated on the financial implications for property owners, the possibility of property owners using their own contractors for inspections, and the cost efficiency of having a certified contractor within the Department of Public Works.

Another focal point of the meeting was the consideration of ordinance 24-24, which proposes amendments to the organizational structure of the police department. The reorganization includes the addition of captain roles, intended to better accommodate the changing population of the borough. The council discussed the police chief’s request for the restructuring, and a member of the public inquired about the necessity and reasoning behind the proposed changes.

The council also tackled ordinance 24-25, which mandates that commissioners of the newly established development agency be borough residents. A member of the public voiced support for this requirement. The council weighed the implications of this residency requirement on other boards and committees within the borough.

During the public comment session, residents had the opportunity to engage with the council on a variety of concerns, including the fairness and consistency of residency requirements for borough boards and committees. Additionally, the council discussed the protocol for debating ordinances during meetings, with members agreeing to establish clearer guidelines for workshop discussions.

The appointment of council members to various positions, such as the Pompton Lakes Redevelopment Agency and the library board, was executed. The mayor provided reports on his recent activities, including a ceremony honoring a deceased firefighter, discussions with a state senator, and participation in a local career day.

Another issue that sparked debate was a proposed ordinance to prohibit the planting of running bamboo on any property in the borough. The council discussed the implications of such an ordinance, including the impact on local ecology and property aesthetics.

Community engagement was further emphasized through discussions of several upcoming events and initiatives, such as the annual Memorial Day parade, high school graduation ceremony, Pompton Day, and a block party. The council approved requests for these events.

The Trails Maintenance Committee meeting was acknowledged, and updates on road improvement projects, such as those on Lincoln Ave and Howard Street, were provided. The council also recognized the submission of a grant application for the replacement of the DPW garage. Additionally, the importance of emergency communication was highlighted through a discussion of a drill which utilized ham radios to demonstrate the need for alternative communication methods in emergencies.