One of the discussions revolved around the proposal to issue an RFP for all professional services in the borough. The council members sought clarification on the selection process and the role of the committee in making recommendations for the appointments, distinguishing between an RFP and a Request for Qualifications (RFQ).

Amidst administrative matters was an update on the downtown revitalization plan and information on grants they were pursuing, including the Green Acres Jakes Law playground grant and the Eda local property acquisition grant. There was a debate about which grants to pursue, with council members expressing enthusiasm for certain grants, while others sought more information before making a decision.

A notable community issue was brought to the forefront by Shepherd Breer of the Tenafly Bicycle Workshop. Breer represented a youth mountain bike team and expressed the challenges they face in finding suitable spaces for practice, particularly during winter months. He urged the council to consider permitting the team to practice at underground training facilities. Council member Julie O’Connor raised questions about the potential impact on neighboring residences, but the council expressed overall support for the idea of utilizing outdoor spaces for these activities.

The council also addressed several resolutions, including R23 467 through 2377. One resolution involved the library placard placement, necessitating a change order for an additional $18,000 due to the installation of an existing pre-AG based layer. Council member Adam Michaels sought clarification on an expenditure for a cardboard and mixed paper materials crusher, which was part of a previous capital plan. The resolution was approved following the discussion.

Dealing with the aftermath of emergencies was another key topic. One resolution, R23-42, involved changes to the original estimate for the cost of rebuilding a bridge destroyed by Ida. Council member Julie O’Connor expressed concern about the reimbursement from FEMA and the potential for future emergencies, prompting a discussion about the limitations and challenges of addressing such situations. Despite the increase in the total cost to $1.9 million due to emergency provisions, the resolution was approved.

In terms of legislation, the council discussed several ordinances including 23-29 pertaining to retiree benefits. Wendy Menon raised concerns about a conflict with a previously adopted salary ordinance and suggested tabling the ordinance, which the council agreed to. Other ordinances, such as 23-30 concerning the acceptance of road dedication for a portion of lot 9 block 602, and 23-31 involving amending the General organization section about Junior Firefighters auxiliary, underwent public comments and subsequent adoption by the council.

Finally, the council addressed the 2024 meeting calendar. After a suggestion to adjust the January meeting dates and a debate about moving the April meeting date due to it coinciding with the second day of Passover, the council decided on a new date for the April meeting, considering school breaks and religious observances.