19:20During the meeting, Chief Chamberlain emphasized the extensive process involved in hiring three new police officers, highlighting the challenges faced in recruitment. He remarked on the decline in applicants for law enforcement positions, noting, “We used to get 200 applicants per spot, now it’s about 50.” Despite this, he expressed satisfaction with the candidates selected. Officer Wellington Venturo, with his background in psychology and sociology, and Officer Alexander Heyman, a former member of the United States Air Force, were introduced and sworn in. The council expressed pride in their new officers, with a member reflecting on family ties to law enforcement and acknowledging the significant work done in this area.

The meeting also saw the election of a new council president for 2025, with Adam Michaels nominated and approved through a roll call vote. This was followed by the swearing-in of council members Lauren Dayton and Julio O’Conor, who were successful in the recent general election. Assemblywoman Shamah administered the oath of office, with Dayton’s contributions to the community during her previous terms being commended, including her efforts during the COVID-19 pandemic and the initiation of Tenafly Pride Day.

These included the appointment of Tren Isabel as Labor Counsel and Lurch Vincy and Higgins as the borough auditor, each receiving unanimous support. The council also addressed potential conflicts of interest during the appointment of a tax appeal attorney, ultimately deciding to proceed with the vote as planned.

41:30Significant board and committee appointments were made, including to the planning board, Board of Adjustment, and Environmental Commission. Notable appointees included Julia Park and Linda Kosian to the planning board, and Sean Callahan and Boris Passover to the Board of Adjustment. The council also appointed Richard Bennett to the Historic Preservation Commission and confirmed Natasia LaVine to the Board of Health.

The mayor took the opportunity to highlight ongoing community initiatives, particularly focusing on road and pedestrian safety, parks and recreation, and downtown revitalization. He announced the successful securing of a $1.6 million federal grant for stormwater mitigation and improvements, and detailed several infrastructure projects, including the installation of a traffic light at Dean Drive and East Clinton and a new four-way stop at Highwood Avenue and J Street.

The mayor also announced plans for a new park on Grove Street and improvements to existing parks, including the installation of a pickleball court and free play area at Roosevelt Commons. He commended the Downtown Committee and the Tenafly Chamber of Commerce for their role in organizing events that support local businesses.