0:05A substantial portion of the meeting was devoted to the proposed ordinance concerning the establishment of cannabis stores in Tenafly. This topic drew discussion during the public comment segment. Angela Leone voiced strong opposition, arguing that the community could access cannabis from other areas and raising concerns about potential safety issues within Tenafly. Leone referenced security challenges faced in nearby East Hill. Her comments underscored a broader community sentiment focused on maintaining safety and stability.

12:46Following the public input on the cannabis store ordinance, the council proceeded to introduce Ordinance 25-5. During the roll call vote, while the majority supported the introduction, there were two abstentions. One council member expressed a desire to gather more public feedback before making a final decision, highlighting the need for thorough community consultation on this contentious issue.

In addition to the cannabis ordinance, the council addressed several other ordinances, including those related to parking amendments, signage regulations, and stormwater control. Each ordinance was confirmed as published, and despite the opportunity for public comment, none was received for these items. The council unanimously approved these ordinances.

0:05The meeting also focused on infrastructure and community projects. Updates were provided on the municipal field beautification project, with construction slated to begin in March and expected completion by early April. The timeline for a new traffic light installation was also shared, with construction starting in late summer and becoming fully operational by early November. These projects are part of the council’s ongoing efforts to enhance local infrastructure and improve community facilities.

Another topic was the Recreation Improvement Grant application, which the council agreed to include in the meeting’s resolutions. The grant aims to fund potential lighting improvements at Roseval Commons.

Additionally, the council discussed the Grove Street Park, with its opening contingent on weather conditions. The park’s facilities, including the dog park and skate park, are expected to open in early April. Questions were raised about the possibility of opening the dog park’s separate entrance earlier, depending on weather conditions.

Further discussions touched upon the design of post-tension concrete tennis courts, with a suggestion to engage a special projects engineer for this task. The council also noted progress on a shared services agreement with the county for fiber installation.

In terms of financial strategy, the council explored the potential use of the New Jersey Infrastructure Bank to fund improvements to sewer and water systems. This approach could alleviate some financial pressures on the borough’s bond process, representing a step in managing municipal finances.

Public hearings were anticipated on several issues, including the potential development of Walnut Field. The council expressed interest in gathering public opinions, particularly regarding the inclusion of bathrooms or additional facilities in the field’s design.

On the technology front, the council discussed the implementation of new human resources technology. This system, set to launch on February 16th, will facilitate personnel management, allowing for digital submissions of forms and requests, thereby reducing reliance on paper documentation. The technology is expected to streamline administrative processes and improve operational efficiency.

12:46The consent agenda included resolutions related to municipal operations, with one council member raising a question about a command vehicle, ultimately confirming it as part of the 2024 budget.

The mayor concluded the meeting with an appointment to the recreation board, naming Nicholas Kalus. The council then moved into a closed executive session to discuss a property acquisition matter and affordable housing litigation.