Dean Kazinski’s retirement was the focal point of the meeting, with numerous speakers, including dignitaries and religious leaders, acknowledging his impact on Teaneck’s safety, success, and growth. County Executive Tracy Zur and Senator Gordon Johnson were among those who presented Kazinski with proclamations and resolutions honoring his leadership and commitment. A flag flown over the United States Capitol was also presented as a token of appreciation for his decades of service. Kazinski expressed his gratitude, reflecting on his career and the support he received from various individuals and his family. The council members shared personal anecdotes, commended Kazinski’s positive attributes, and presented thoughtful gifts to him.

Following the tributes, the meeting welcomed Jacqueline Hashmat as the new Township Manager. She expressed gratitude for the opportunity and recognized the contributions of her predecessor, Dean Kazinski. Council members expressed their excitement about working with Hashmat and offered support during the transition.

Another topic of discussion was the proposed ordinance to allow residents to keep backyard chickens. The issue elicited passionate responses from the public, with arguments presented for and against the ordinance. Proponents cited benefits such as pest control, educational opportunities, and fresh eggs, while opponents raised concerns about noise, waste management, and health risks like avian flu. The debate also touched upon the town’s history with chicken regulations and the specifics of the proposed ordinance, including a drafting mistake in the setback requirements for chicken coops. The council deliberated on the language of the ordinance and the potential impact of chickens on the community’s branding, eventually voting to approve the amendment to the ordinance.

Public comments covered a range of topics, including requests for a ceasefire in Gaza, skepticism about the appointment of a consultant without an employment contract, and concerns about financial decisions such as the $40,000 approved for law firm invoices. Residents also expressed the need to address racial disparities and systemic racism, with support for the Juneteenth Committee’s activities in the town. Additionally, safety at a specific intersection and the importance of traffic safety measures were highlighted.

Discussions about the town’s infrastructure included suggestions for improving bicycle and pedestrian pathways and addressing long-term drainage problems. The destruction of a forest in violation of a developer’s agreement was brought up, with calls for remediation. Speakers also advocated for treating each other with respect, emphasizing the importance of community values.

Council members responded to the public’s concerns, discussing the sale of a cell tower, the municipal tax, and the timeline for the master plan. The need for improved safety at intersections and the creation of a pedestrian traffic safety task force were considered. Concerns about the proposed code enforcement officer were raised, with implications for residents’ well-being being debated.

The council proceeded with budget adoption discussions, tree trimming, and intersection redesign for traffic calming. They also addressed an omission of an employment agreement and authorized payments to a law firm after a request for review of their invoices. Ordinances introduced included amendments to the township code for on-street handicap parking spaces, establishing salary ranges for municipal employees, and revising parking laws. The introduction of these ordinances was approved with minimal changes.