A comprehensive plan to manage the burgeoning deer population was at the forefront of the Ramsey Borough Council’s agenda. Councilman Peter Kilman presented findings from the New Jersey Department of Fish and Wildlife, which supported the engagement of professional licensed bow hunters as an effective method to control the deer population. This proposal was in response to increasing homeowner complaints about aggressive deer behavior, potential tick-borne diseases, and damage to home ornamentation. Mayor Deirdre A. Dillon emphasized the urgency of implementing a workable solution by autumn and suggested collaboration with neighboring municipalities, including Mahwah, to bolster the effectiveness of the initiative.

The council also focused on several resolutions aimed at improving municipal infrastructure. The Borough Administrator, Mr. Bose, detailed Resolution 40, which involved the procurement of a Western Star chassis for a new hoist truck to service the Department of Public Works. Additionally, Resolutions 44 and 45 were approved, confirming the acquisition of two replacement service vehicles for the Board of Public Works.

Another matter was the introduction of an ordinance to adjust water and sewer rates in response to a resolution by the Board of Public Works, which proposed a 3.91% water rate increase and a 3.96% sewer rate increase. The ordinance passed the first reading with unanimous support from the council members present. This fiscal decision underscored the need to sustain the municipality’s water and sewer infrastructure while balancing the financial impact on Ramsey residents.

The council approved minutes from previous meetings and discussed various consent resolutions and special permit requests. The Knights of Columbus, the Academy of St. Pauls, and the Manetti Dentist Group were among those who received approval for their events. A discussion regarding a driveway permit application for Hamilton Drive led to a compromise on driveway width and setback, highlighting the council’s role in navigating local zoning issues.

Council members provided updates on committee activities and community events. Councilman Michael Gutwetter praised the new appointees and shared progress on the library’s HVAC system and the Ramsey Farmers Market. Councilwoman Judy Cusick updated on the planning board, shade tree commission, and lead service line replacement project. Councilwoman Jane Woods and Councilman Glen Popolo reported on active senior participation and upcoming community events, respectively.

Councilwoman Sara Poppe’s organization of a successful event for new residents was acknowledged, and Mayor Dillon mentioned the continuation of “Coffee with the Mayor and Council” as an important community engagement initiative. She also thanked former Shade Tree Commission members for their service.

The departure of three senior volunteers from the Shade Tree Commission prompted a response from the borough attorney, who planned to issue a letter addressing their alleged justification for resigning. The council expressed appreciation for the volunteers’ contributions and recognized the impact of their departure on the commission’s expertise.