07:02The meeting commenced with a discussion of the budget allocations for cybersecurity enhancements. Chief Financial Officer Bob Rooney detailed a budget item of $24,000 earmarked for penetration testing, a necessary measure to comply with the joint insurance fund (GIF) requirements. This testing is designed to assess cybersecurity defenses, particularly the security of email systems, servers, and wireless networks. The council was informed of recent cybersecurity attacks on municipalities in Bergen County, emphasizing the importance of this investment to mitigate future liabilities and insurance premiums. Rooney noted that the last penetration test was conducted three to four years ago, making this update both timely and imperative.

37:04The sanitation and recycling budget also saw considerable attention. The council discussed substantial increases due to a new contract with a disposal company, which raised disposal fees. Budget adjustments were necessary to cover vehicle rental expenses, particularly for sanitation vehicles rented from Ohio. These vehicles are due to be purchased through a capital bond ordinance by May 2024, with rental costs partially credited towards the purchase. Rising disposal fees were identified as a fixed cost for the municipality, with the council urged to find savings elsewhere to offset these increases.

03:05:29Water utility compliance costs presented another pressing budgetary concern. The council reviewed a 7.5% budget increase, much of which is attributed to regulatory compliance expenses. Ridgewood Water, which services 61,000 customers, faces financial commitments to comply with regulations concerning PFOA substances, lead service lines, and the Water Quality Accountability Act. New treatment facilities and infrastructure upgrades are part of the municipality’s response to these mandates, with council members acknowledging the financial burden this places on the community. A council member remarked on the necessity of these investments, despite the challenges they present, noting, “When the commitment was made to invest $150 million into building these PFOA treatment facilities… there was going to be a price tag associated with that.”

02:02:41Discussion also touched upon the deferred maintenance issues of municipal buildings. One council member expressed frustration over rising expenses, pointing out that deferred maintenance could exacerbate costs in the future. An example given was a past ceiling collapse, which highlighted the potential safety risks of neglecting building upkeep.

54:37The council further addressed the budget for the Parks Division and Street Division, where poor employee facilities were flagged. A $30,000 proposal for locker room improvements at the recycling center was discussed, with the current conditions described as inadequate. The need for improved sanitation facilities was emphasized, with plans for a $65,000 investment in bathroom improvements already in place. The council expressed the desire to execute these projects simultaneously to enhance efficiency and employee morale.

01:07:59Finally, the meeting included discussions on the recruitment of seasonal labor, particularly for roles like lifeguards. Council members debated the potential need to increase starting wages to attract candidates and reduce reliance on overtime for full-time staff, which could lead to long-term savings. The broader implications of competitive wages on staffing levels and operational efficiency were explored, with a focus on ensuring public safety and timely service delivery.