0:00The retirement of Glenna Crockett, the influential Recreation Director who served Teaneck for 46 years, was a key highlight of the meeting. The council paid tribute to Crockett’s leadership, particularly her role as the first African American woman superintendent in New Jersey, an achievement described as remarkable. Her colleagues shared personal stories reflecting her deep impact on the community and praised her for expanding the recreation department’s services, including the senior and disabled transportation service that benefits over 1,500 residents. A bench will be dedicated to Crockett in V Park, commemorating her nearly half-century of service. Crockett expressed gratitude and reflected on the department’s evolution, noting the increase in outreach and services, such as serving over 800 senior residents quarterly at no charge.

49:08The meeting also marked the transition in town leadership as newly elected council members were sworn in. Mark Schwarz took the oath as the new mayor, succeeding Michael Pagan. Schwarz acknowledged the challenges faced by the council over the past two years and commended his predecessor’s leadership. He outlined his vision for Teaneck, highlighting the importance of practical problem-solving and stressing the need to address the affordable housing crisis, which he described as a nationwide issue. Schwarz emphasized the necessity of community collaboration, recognizing Teaneck’s diversity as a strength and urging respect and unity among residents.

The election of deputy mayors followed, with Karen Oregan and Denise Belcher taking the positions of Deputy Mayor One and Two, respectively. Oregan and Belcher expressed pride in their roles within the diverse council, and Belcher paid homage to her youth pastor and former council members who inspired her commitment to community unity.

1:50:13Affordable housing emerged as a pressing topic during the meeting. Council members discussed establishing subcommittees to address zoning and housing needs, prompted by a recent court ruling requiring the town to provide 431 new affordable housing units over the next decade. The urgency of passing a binding resolution by the end of January was emphasized to strategically address these housing challenges.

1:11:04Community engagement also featured prominently in the meeting, with public comments addressing the Teaneck Swim Club’s role in the community. Residents expressed concerns over the club’s accessibility and the need for affordable membership options. The Swim Club’s board president conveyed a desire for open and collaborative efforts with the council to resolve current issues. Other residents emphasized the importance of community spaces like the Swim Club in fostering connections and urged the council to maintain transparency and inclusivity in decision-making.

1:50:13Discussions around the appointment of township service providers and budget resolutions revealed the council’s focus on maintaining fiscal responsibility and efficient governance.