The council’s most pressing topic was the public hearing and final approval of Ordinance 12 of 2024, which amends Chapter 19 of the Borough Code concerning stormwater control. Initially adopted earlier in the year, the ordinance was reintroduced due to formatting changes required by Bergen County to align with the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection’s updated stormwater guidelines. Councilwoman Judy Cusick motioned for the final reading, emphasizing that the modifications did not alter the ordinance’s meaning or enforcement. Despite opening the floor for public comments, no attendees in the council chambers or via telephone lines provided feedback, leading to a swift closure of the segment. A subsequent roll call confirmed unanimous approval of the ordinance.

In the realm of public safety, Council President Peter Kilman reported on the ongoing evaluation of the Ramsey Emergency Services complex. An independent engineering firm conducted an exhaustive review of the 70-year-old structure, identifying over 50 areas of concern. The firm recommended constructing a new shared station to meet modern safety and operational standards. Kilman noted that the detailed report is available on the borough’s website.

Councilman Michael Gutwetter provided updates on the library board’s initiatives, highlighting efforts to establish the library as a sanctuary for books. He mentioned upcoming programs, including a Zoom session on college admissions and a visit from an author for younger students. Additionally, he noted that the Ramsey Farmers Market operates on Sundays, and the Women’s Club recently hosted a successful Apple Fest. Gutwetter also acknowledged the contributions of various individuals and organizations to a recent Ramsey run.

Councilwoman Jane Woods reported on the Design Review Board’s recent meeting, which included discussions about an application for a J.Crew Factory Store in Interstate Plaza. The next Design Review Board meeting is scheduled for October, where further applications will be considered.

The meeting also addressed several resolutions under the consent resolution, encompassing resolutions 185 through 187 of 2024. These included requests for block parties on Elm Place and Poplar Street, scheduled for September 29th and October 27th, respectively. The council approved these resolutions without objections or discussion through a roll call vote.

In other business, a recent senior trustees meeting highlighted the anticipated visit of author Tim Dris on October 4th to discuss his book, “Ramsey Golf and Country Club Memories.” The seniors raised concerns about the milling and paving on East Oak, which an attending officer assured would not disrupt their activities. The current membership stands at 575, with a busy schedule ahead.

A request was made to residents to remove unauthorized business signs from public spaces, emphasizing the new ordinance that allows fines up to $1,000 for such infractions. This ordinance includes signs on utility poles, which often advertise garage sales.

Councilwoman Sara Poppe provided updates on various committees, including the planning board, shade tree commission, and the Board of Public Works. Discussions included the environmental impact of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) and ongoing collaboration with H2M regarding lead service line replacements, mandated by the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection to be completed by 2031. An article on these topics will be featured in the Ramsey Journal. Additionally, fire hydrant flushing is scheduled for September 27th through 29th, and residents are reminded to prepare for the leaf removal program starting mid-October and running through December.

Councilwoman Judy Cusick discussed the recent Ramsey Municipal Alliance meeting, which reviewed summer activities and future plans. A significant event scheduled for October 9th will feature former professional basketball player Chris Heron, who will speak about his struggles with addiction at Ramsey High School. The event includes a daytime assembly and an evening presentation for parents.

The mayor reiterated the borough’s ordinance against posting signs on utility poles, emphasizing that the Department of Public Works will remove signs where possible. The borough administrator briefly addressed resolution 187, which concerns a $15,000 grant from the national opioid settlement to fund the Municipal Alliance program featuring Chris Heron.