The most significant topic of the meeting was the corrective action plan presented by Roy Richo. Richo outlined findings from the recent audit, noting that it was almost flawless, with only five comments. He highlighted three internal control issues related to contract laws and the procurement of goods and services prior to obtaining purchase orders. Emphasizing the need for improved internal controls and proper staffing, Richo stated, “the audit was as clean as it can be for the size of Community we have.” He also mentioned that previous issues with dog licensing had been rectified and that monthly reports were now effectively generated.

Another major topic was the report from Boswell Engineering, which provided updates on various ongoing projects. The Grell Avenue and Railroad Avenue intersection improvement project was reported to be a Bergen County initiative, with submissions for the decour plan having been made. The sanitary sewer pump station improvement project was still awaiting comments from the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP). Other updates included the approval of storm sewer mapping, with contractor work scheduled to begin on Howard Avenue for drainage and resurfacing. The construction completion of the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) application for Darthy Avenue was noted, along with plans for future projects.

Concerns about the timelines for the Railroad Avenue project were raised, pending confirmation from the county. A suggestion was made to improve communication regarding construction delays to keep residents informed. One committee member proposed that notices of delays be shared with the public in the same manner as commencement notices.

The Department of Public Works (DPW) reported ongoing maintenance efforts, including sewer line cleaning, tree trimming to meet regulatory height standards, and curb painting at intersection corners as requested by the Police Department. Specific updates included scheduled sewer line repairs on El Dorado, pending weather conditions. The DPW was also maintaining parks and addressing storm drainage issues following recent floods.

The meeting also included a moment of remembrance for Congressman Pascrell, who had served the Ninth District and had recently passed away. A council member expressed, “The congressman was a wonderful and caring gentleman,” recalling a collaborative effort from July 2nd to secure funding for Rosa Park. Condolences were also extended for Jon Sim, a former council member who had battled illness.

In community updates, the council reported that the local court issued 396 traffic tickets and handled 12 criminal complaints, generating a total revenue of $1,788 in July. The “Access for All” committee is seeking volunteers and will hold a meeting on September 18th at the Senior Center. Additionally, a household hazardous waste collection organized by the Bergen County Utilities Authority is set for September 7th, while a shredding event is scheduled for September 28th in the municipal parking lot. A New Bridge Landing popup tour is also planned for September 8th, inviting history enthusiasts to explore Revolutionary War sites.

The Library Board, during a meeting on August 12th, commended Library Director Lisa H., particularly for the community programming that has been well-received, such as the chalk and bubbles party, which was described as a fun event for families.

Additional community events include a remembrance ceremony for a past president scheduled for September 5, 2024, and a free flu clinic on September 26 for seniors and disabled employees. The upcoming annual senior festival was highlighted, along with updates on school renovations, which included roof repairs and gym floor installation coming in under budget.

Concerns were raised regarding a recycling company’s truck that broke down and caused a mess, with assurances that the responsible party was contacted to clean up the debris. The Police Department shared its July report, highlighting that officers answered 1,456 calls for service. This included proactive measures leading to 199 motor vehicle stops, 12 arrests, and 441 summonses. A significant narcotics distribution arrest was noted, resulting from a motor vehicle stop that uncovered crack cocaine and prescription pills. The department also engaged in community outreach, attending the Eagle Scout ceremony and visiting day camps. Future plans included a Bike Rodeo and the rescheduling of National Night Out to August 15 due to weather.

The public portion of the meeting allowed attendees to voice comments. Ed Quinn from Peak Street recognized Pete Della from EMS for his extensive work with local youth, specifically in helping them earn their Emergency Service merit badge. Susan Yabuchi from Ward Street provided feedback regarding a recent incident involving the street cleaner, which had broken down. She expressed gratitude for the DPW’s responsiveness and the care shown toward residents during the cleanup efforts.

The meeting concluded with the approval of minutes from previous closed sessions and the adoption of an ordinance aimed at amending specific chapters of the township code concerning certificates of compliance. A motion was made and passed to close the public hearing and adopt the ordinance for final passage. A request was made to remove a specific resolution concerning licensing fees for further discussion, noting that the ordinance related to licensing fees was outdated, dating back to 2010. It was agreed that further discussion could take place at a future meeting to explore updating the ordinance, while the current resolution could still be passed.