The council moved to implement new time-limited right turn restrictions from Route 17 southbound to ramp SRI x104 40, aimed at improving traffic flow and safety. This resolution, introduced by Councilman Raymond Guzmán and seconded by Christie Del Rey-Cone, was unanimously approved. In the same session, the council also endorsed the application for the Bergen County Community Development block grant, which will provide funding for local community development projects.

The meeting featured a moment of recognition for Brenda Fargo, honoring her nearly 30 years of service in the Rutherford school district upon her retirement. Councilman Guzmán congratulated Fargo for her contributions to the community’s education system.

Public concerns were addressed when Laura Niner brought up the issue of the empty lot on Lincoln Avenue, which has been in a state of neglect. The council acknowledged the concerns raised and committed to coordinating with the building department to address the issue.

The council saw a change in personnel within the Public Works committee with the resignation of Nicholas Mazako. Subsequently, the council approved the awarding of non-fair and open contracts to Ridge Hurst Auto Parts and Granger, both of which passed unanimously, as reported by Councilwoman Stephanie McGowan.

In line with public safety, the Fire committee, represented by Councilman Matthew Cokeley, authorized a non-fair and open contract to State Line Fire and Safety Inc. Cokeley also expressed gratitude to the borough administrator and clerk for their ongoing support.

Councilwoman Susan Quatrone, despite having no specific items under her committee assignments, looked forward to the library’s 130th anniversary gala and thanked the borough employees for their service. Similarly, Councilwoman Maria Begg-Roberson, overseeing the Recreation committee, approved independent contractor rates for 2024 and commended the recreation department for their efforts.

An appointment made by Mayor Frank Nunziato was that of Kim Be Goian as a permanent public information officer. Joe Ronco was named as a maintenance supervisor, and several special law enforcement officers and employees were appointed for 2024. These appointments received unanimous support from the council.

Another point of the meeting was the renewal of Municipal consent to Comcast of the metaland LLC. This consent allows Comcast to construct, connect, operate, and maintain a cable television and communication system within Rutherford. During the discussion, Councilwoman Del Rey-Cone recused herself due to a conflict of interest, and the ordinance was successfully passed on a second reading and subsequently advertised.

The meeting concluded with the council expressing gratitude to community volunteers and discussing plans for the upcoming 75th anniversary celebration of the ambulance corps. Mayor Nunziato reminded attendees of the upcoming swearing-in ceremony for himself and Councilman Cokeley, as well as the renewal of the Comcast cable television and communication systems in the borough.