The council examined the contentious issue of short-term rentals, such as those listed on Airbnb. Residents expressed concerns about the impact of these rentals on neighborhood quality of life, safety, and property values. Reports of noise disturbances, overflowing trash, and increased traffic in residential areas underscored the challenges posed by transient renters. Residents voiced their desire for regulations to mitigate these impacts, with some advocating for a minimum rental period extension from the proposed 30 days to 60 days. The council debated the merits of this adjustment, balancing the needs of residents who may require short-term accommodations against the goal of reducing disruptive rentals. Ultimately, a council member led a motion to adopt the ordinance as originally proposed, which would restrict short-term rentals and prohibit listings on platforms like Airbnb. The enforcement of these regulations would rely on resident reports of violations, which could be communicated to the police non-emergency number or directly to council offices.

In parallel, the council addressed the topic of cannabis. Although no votes were taken, the council agreed to organize a town hall meeting to gather community input and facilitate a discussion. A Cannabis Committee was suggested to oversee the proceedings and include industry professionals to provide insights. One resident, a single mother and cannabis license holder, shared her experience in the industry, emphasizing its potential benefits, including job creation and tax revenue. Her testimony highlighted the need for education and wellness initiatives to address stigma and foster a more informed public dialogue.

Municipal projects also featured prominently in the meeting. The council received updates on the Tenafly Railroad Station Preservation Plan, which aims to preserve the historic site while addressing structural improvements. Funds have been allocated for upgrades, with some electrical work already completed. The council expressed interest in exploring grant opportunities for future projects and accepted recommendations from the Historic Preservation Committee to establish a building advisory committee under the Historic Preservation Commission’s oversight.

Further reports covered infrastructure and community initiatives. Public Service Electric and Gas (PSE&G) plans to pave approximately 20 roads by 2025, with shared responsibilities between PSE&G and the borough. The Municipal Field Beautification Project is set to commence on February 24, with the Little League field project expected to conclude by April 18. The recent installation of county fiber is anticipated to save the borough $150 monthly.

During public comments, various concerns were raised. Assemblywoman Shama Haa highlighted the need for local businesses to comply with a New Jersey law requiring transparency about credit card service fees. She also urged the council to engage in strategic planning to address affordable housing challenges. Local business owner Ran Levy echoed concerns about short-term rentals, advocating for regulations to protect community safety and property values.

Environmental issues were also discussed, with a representative from the Chamber of Commerce relaying feedback from local restaurants opposing additional plastic use in takeout packaging. The council favored an educational campaign over punitive fines to promote compliance with plastic reduction initiatives.

Community activities and collaborations were highlighted, including spring fundraisers organized by the Tenafly Nature Center and a stream cleanup initiative with the Hackensack River Keeper. The recreation department is gearing up for spring sports, with lacrosse and softball sign-ups underway. The Downtown Committee’s inaugural meeting focused on traffic and pedestrian safety, alongside plans for a Spring Fling event on May 4.

Lastly, the Senior Services Committee is exploring grant opportunities for a proposed Trusted Rider service to assist homebound seniors with transportation needs. Discussions on potential shared services with neighboring towns were also held to reduce costs.