The meeting commenced with a significant proclamation for Pride Month, read aloud by a council member. This declaration not only commemorated the achievements and struggles of the LGBTQ+ community but also highlighted the borough’s longstanding support, referencing a previous resolution that established Tenafly Pride Day. Emphasizing the need for continued education and resistance against prejudice, the proclamation underscored the borough’s commitment amid growing anti-LGBTQ+ sentiments. The council member emphasized the importance of awareness and advocacy, asserting, “Pride Month influences awareness and provides support and advocacy.” The proclamation concluded by formally recognizing June 2025 as LGBTQ+ Pride Month in Tenafly, aligning with broader societal movements for equality.

The council then turned its attention to persistent traffic concerns, particularly the installation of speed bumps on North Ly Avenue. This topic has been a recurring issue in several neighborhoods. A council member noted that the police chief would assess the need for speed bumps with the traffic bureau, potentially involving a traffic engineer to study the area. The timeline for receiving feedback was set for the next council meeting. Residents who had requested speed bumps would be informed about the progress.

Public input on traffic issues was robust. One resident, Chad, commended the council for the Pride Month proclamation, describing it as a vital gesture in protecting lives amidst hostile legislation against LGBTQ+ individuals. Another resident, Hardi, expressed gratitude for the council’s attention to traffic problems on North Ly Avenue, citing the dangers posed to children by speeding cars. Hardi suggested that speed cameras, in addition to speed bumps, could enhance safety. He explained that motorists frequently ignored existing signage, exacerbating traffic risks.

The council also addressed traffic congestion at the intersection of Hudson and Magnolia. A member expressed frustration over delays caused by vehicles blocking the intersection. The congestion was attributed to cars attempting to enter a carpool lane, disrupting traffic flow. It was suggested that cross-hatching could prevent vehicles from obstructing the intersection. The discussion included observations on how changes in school traffic patterns contributed to congestion, particularly in the afternoon when traffic direction reversed. The council agreed to further investigate these issues.

An interesting proposal from the Asian-American Youth Council was brought to the council’s attention. The proposal suggested an honorary street naming to celebrate the vibrant Korean community in Tenafly. The initiative received general support, with suggestions for potential locations near the Korean Community Center or along Grove Street. A committee was proposed to oversee the naming process, ensuring no overlap with existing honors, such as a street named after Sergeant Oesco.

The administrator’s report included a discussion on public benches, with a proposal to appropriate funds for 12 additional benches throughout the borough. The senior services committee had previously compiled a list of suggested locations, and the administrator planned to consult with public works and the police chief to ensure optimal placements for the benches. The council decided to address the bench discussion during the current session, rather than deferring it to a future meeting.

During the introduction of new business, the council introduced ordinance 25-18, which allocates $110,000 for the nature center and $30,000 for benches. The ordinance was set for a hearing on June 16, 2025, with unanimous approval in the initial vote. Similarly, ordinance 25-9 regarding flood damage prevention was introduced, receiving unanimous support for its first reading.

The meeting also covered committee reports, where a member announced upcoming Pride Day celebrations and reminded attendees about Nature Day scheduled for the approaching Sunday. The council discussed fundraising efforts for Pride Day, focusing on costs such as hiring a DJ and procuring celebratory materials. The recreation department’s ongoing camp registrations were also highlighted, encouraging community participation.

In closing remarks, the mayor proposed appointing Lily Weinberg to the Northern Valley Greenway. The appointment was positively received, noting Weinberg’s strong recommendations and her experience with trails projects. This step was seen as a contribution to the borough’s environmental initiatives and community engagement efforts.