The most significant topic of the Saddle Brook Town Council meeting was the proposed all-inclusive playground project at Bergen County Saddle River Park Isle Paley section. The project, which is in the preliminary stages, is seeking funding through a Green Acres Grant and is estimated to cost $3.7 million. Plans include relocating the park’s entrance to a less flood-prone area, moving the playground closer to the street for better security and community access, and enhancing overall accessibility. During the meeting, residents raised concerns about the proposed playground location’s proximity to the street and the need for additional parking. The council acknowledged these concerns and reiterated that there would be more meetings and opportunities for public input as the proposal progresses.

Further enhancing the town’s recreational facilities, the council announced the approval of a $750,000 grant from the state for park improvements, including the creation of a Splash Park. Specific locations for these developments are yet to be determined. The council members took the opportunity to encourage residents to register for the new Township notification system.

The meeting also served as an occasion to extend best wishes to Father Bruce Janiga of St. Philips, who was recovering from surgery, and to acknowledge the diligent efforts of the Department of Public Works (DPW) and the police department during a recent snowstorm. The municipal offices were noted to be closed for President’s Day, and a series of upcoming events were announced, including Women in History Month, Chicken Bingo, and the Spring Celebration.

The council addressed the high demand for “Saddlebrook: A Portrait of Our Past” by Jack Wasike by announcing plans to print additional copies, acknowledging the community’s significant interest in the publication.

A moment of silence was observed for the families of retired police detective Sergeant Glen Veros, retired police officer George Lial, and others in the community who had recently suffered losses. The council expressed their condolences and lowered the flags to half-staff in their honor.

During the public portion of the meeting, updates were provided on the town’s youth group, including forthcoming activities such as an Easter celebration and Earth Day events. The council recognized the dedication of the youth group members and officers.

Other issues addressed included parking violations during snowstorms, with members expressing frustration over repeated violations. A discussion about the new driveway into the park raised concerns regarding tree removal and the fate of the existing playground equipment. The council shared a personal experience of a council member who lost a family member to heart disease. The approval of minutes from the previous meeting and resolutions for the payment of bills were confirmed. Additional topics of discussion were an upcoming cornhole tournament at the Rec Center, a proposal to place security cameras strategically throughout the township, and the need for caution to prevent car thefts, emphasizing the importance of not leaving key fobs in vehicles and securing garage door openers.