54:31A primary focus of the meeting was the approval of Ordinance 24-25, which authorizes Phase One of the replacement of sanitary sewers on KAC Road. The ordinance allocated $188,000 to cover construction and engineering costs, with funding from the federal Community Development Block Grant Program. The urgency of this decision was driven by a change in the federal program’s reimbursement deadline, now June 30. Despite the opportunity for public comment, no responses were tendered, and the ordinance was unanimously adopted by the council members present. This funding is expected to address infrastructure needs, improving sanitary conditions in the area.

The council also reviewed resolutions concerning shared services agreements with neighboring municipalities. Resolution 24-354, which involved a temporary arrangement with the Borough of Bergenfield for court administration services, was highlighted. Due to the retirement of Bergenfield’s court administrator, River Edge’s court administrator will temporarily cover sessions, with Bergenfield reimbursing River Edge for these services.

38:08Recreation program fee increases were another key topic. Joe from the Recreation Commission detailed the adjustments, including a $50 increase for the CAM program and a $10 increase for men’s softball fees. These changes were attributed to rising operational costs, including a planned 36% minimum wage increase in 2025. The council acknowledged the challenges faced by the Recreation Commission in balancing financial sustainability with community needs.

The meeting transitioned to a presentation by the Historic Commission, which highlighted a QR code project designed to engage residents with local history. The project, which had been introduced a year earlier, involves placing QR codes on street signs that link to digital content about local landmarks and historical events. The presentation underscored the importance of community involvement and suggested partnerships with local entities to promote the initiative. The commission expressed a commitment to expanding the project, potentially incorporating it into school curriculums to enrich students’ understanding of River Edge’s historical narrative.

54:31A notable moment of the meeting was the acknowledgment of Councilwoman Michelle Kaufman’s contributions as she steps down from her position. A proclamation was read to honor her six years of service, highlighting her involvement in various roles, including with the Fire Department, the River Edge Voluntary Ambulance Service, and numerous committees. Kaufman played a role in modernizing borough operations during the COVID-19 pandemic by facilitating remote meetings and revitalizing the farmers market. Her colleagues expressed gratitude for her leadership and dedication. Kaufman, in turn, thanked her fellow council members, borough employees, and community volunteers, reflecting on the achievements and teamwork that characterized her tenure. The council members shared personal remarks, acknowledging the positive impact Kaufman had on the borough and their own work.

38:08In addition to the main discussions, the council addressed several other agenda items, including the approval of ordinance 24-24, which amends traffic regulations to enhance road safety. The ordinance introduces new stop signs and updates prohibitions on overnight truck parking. The council also passed a motion to promote Benjamin Mullen within the Department of Public Works and received monthly reports from the Health Board and the tax collector.