The meeting began with a police swearing-in ceremony for Probationary Police Officer Joseph Lockhart. The Chief of Police underscored the importance of integrating a new officer into the force as a long-term commitment to public service. Officer Lockhart, a graduate in criminal justice and former police dispatcher, will embark on basic training at the Bergen County Life and Public Safety Institute. His training will cover aspects such as criminal law and crisis intervention tactics, a rigorous process highlighting the borough’s dedication to maintaining a well-trained law enforcement body.

The council then turned its attention to traffic safety issues, starting with the delayed traffic light installation at Dean Drive and East Clinton. A council member expressed frustration over the project’s slow progress, citing missing equipment as the primary reason. The contractor had assured that once the remaining poles and arms arrive, the traffic light could be operational within days.

Additionally, concerns about the CSX Crossing at Mahan and West Mahan were discussed, with the council looking to engage with the New Jersey Department of Transportation (NJ DOT) for further evaluation. The council aims for a diagnostic team meeting with NJ DOT by January, with the hope of having the crossing functional by the summer.

On Dean Drive, a resident and a traffic engineer proposed moving a stop sign and adjusting road striping to enhance safety. However, the council exhibited caution, emphasizing the need for further data before implementing such changes. They plan to work with the police chief to review accident data to ensure informed decision-making.

Infrastructure improvements extended to flood mitigation efforts, with discussions on utilizing floodwater management funds for a local brook. The council explored the possibility of an engineering study to assess the situation, weighing the challenges posed by the brook’s classification as private property. Previous expensive flood mitigation projects were revisited, with council members expressing a desire to leverage existing studies to avoid redundant efforts.

In addition to infrastructure and safety issues, the council introduced several ordinances. Notably, Ordinance number 25-33 proposed the creation of a new affordable housing district, which passed without opposition. Ordinance number 25-34, a bond ordinance for public improvements, and Ordinance number 25-35, addressing park regulations, were similarly approved.

During public comments, community member Andrew Mckesh praised the Department of Public Works (DPW) and police for their handling of Halloween festivities in the Katabas neighborhood. Meanwhile, Amy Sa, a council member with a medical cannabis retail license, advocated for establishing a cannabis business in Tenafly. She highlighted compliance with zoning requirements and the potential economic benefits of a regulated cannabis market.

The meeting also touched on a $150,000 donation from the Dis Johnson fund, earmarked for the upkeep of borough facilities. Discussions around the borough’s tree ordinance shed light on the allocation of fees collected for tree removal, with an emphasis on supporting tree-related initiatives.