The meeting featured a significant celebration of local youth sports, where six proclamations were presented to various teams. The third and fourth-grade boys’ soccer team was warmly received as each player was called up to receive their trophy. Head coach George LeBrunda expressed gratitude to the council, parents, and players, emphasizing the community’s support for local sports. Following this, the Roseland Spirit, a third and fourth-grade girls’ soccer team, was honored. Head coach Sally Sebastian praised the girls for their teamwork and determination, noting their championship win for the second consecutive year. The enthusiasm continued with the fifth and sixth-grade girls’ team, the Roseland Dash, whose coach commended the team’s resilience.

A council member shared that the team had a slow start but improved as a unit, leading to their playoff victory.

In legislative matters, the Council smoothly adopted several ordinances. Ordinance 39-22-24 concerning payment of claims was adopted following a public hearing without opposition. The council proceeded to pass Ordinance 40-22-24, which amends building and housing fees, and Ordinance 41-22-24, establishing salaries for the mayor and council. Ordinance 42-22-24, amending fees for outdoor facilities use, and Ordinance 43-22-24, related to outside police employment, were also adopted without public objection.

A point of discussion was the resignation of Deputy Police Director John Maas, effective at the end of the year. Council members expressed regret over his departure, praising his dedication and contributions to the community. One member highlighted Maas’s commitment, noting efforts to keep his resignation off the agenda in hopes he might reconsider. The council acknowledged his role in helping the borough, with multiple members extending their gratitude for his service.

The meeting also included tributes to Councilwoman Eileen Fishman, who is stepping down. Her colleagues expressed appreciation for her years of service and her impact on senior services and community involvement. Reflections on personal friendships and her influence were shared. Members expressed hope that Fishman would continue to be involved in volunteer efforts and thanked her for her dedication.

The Mayor delivered a report thanking various departments and volunteers involved in recent holiday celebrations, sharing positive feedback from a neighboring town about the borough’s festivities. Proposed budget dates for January were announced by the finance administration committee. The Senior and Family Services report included discussions about a grant application for a new joint senior bus, acknowledging the lengthy process for acquisition.

Public Safety updates recognized the fire department and EMS for their achievements in holiday parades, with the fire department placing second and EMS third. The police department was commended for a successful coat and toy drive, encouraging residents to donate unwrapped toys.

During public comments, Essex County Commissioner Len Luciano addressed the council, expressing pleasure at returning to the chamber and honoring John Maas for his contributions to Essex County. Luciano commended Councilman John Biront for completing his first year on the council and praised Eileen Fishman as an influential figure in local politics. Further public comments appreciated Fishman’s service and expressed holiday wishes to those present.