The senior transportation program was a major topic of discussion. The program, which provides transportation for seniors to medical appointments and shopping, currently faces challenges due to limited drivers and vehicles. Weekly denials of service requests have become common, prompting the council to consider hiring a third driver to meet the increasing demand. Suggestions were made to reallocate funds from old bond ordinances and to explore contributions from local car dealerships for vehicles or services. The safety and background checks of any new drivers were also emphasized as a concern. One council member noted the importance of addressing these issues promptly to ensure the program’s sustainability and reliability.

The council also tackled the issue of political campaign billboards. A proposal was put forward to extend the timeframe for political campaign signage from 30 days to 60 days before elections, in response to changes in voting procedures and the introduction of early voting. The current ordinance allows billboards to be displayed 30 days before an election. However, with early voting starting earlier, there was consensus that campaign visibility should be improved. The council acknowledged the need for a comprehensive overhaul of the sign ordinance to ensure content neutrality and address other related issues. The debate included discussions on the mechanics of implementing these changes, with some members pointing out the upcoming elections as a pressing factor.

Another notable topic was the potential scheduling conflict with an upcoming special school district election on September 17, which coincided with a scheduled council meeting. A recommendation was made to move the council meeting to Thursday, September 19, to ensure availability of council members and to prevent any administrative conflicts with election operations.

The council addressed various infrastructure projects during the administrative reports. Updates included the interclosure of a road, with the bid phase expected to take place from mid-July to late August, and contracts anticipated to be finalized by September 3. A significant overbid for the Old Spring Club project led to a proposal to reject the bid and negotiate new contracts. Progress on wayfinding signs was also reported, with completion expected within a week or two. Concerns were raised about the timeline for installing light poles on the east side of the road tracks, which is likely to face delays due to necessary infrastructure work and approaching winter weather.

A discussion about the donation from Denise Simpson, who wished to donate a bench or flag in honor of her parents who lived in Tenafly for 60 years, highlighted the need for clarity in the borough’s donation process. The council emphasized the importance of ensuring that donations align with the existing naming ordinance and that funds are tracked properly. There was a consensus on the necessity of a formal resolution to accept donations and the need for transparency and adherence to legal frameworks.

The council also discussed the establishment of a sister city connection with Seneca Falls, New York, to celebrate the history of suffrage. The League of Women Voters expressed interest in collaborating on a program related to the 19th Amendment, proposed to take place on the last Sunday in September. The suggestion received general support, recognizing it as an opportunity for community engagement and education about women’s rights.

In terms of new committees, a proposal to create a tree committee was raised. The committee would allow residents interested in tree planting and care to meet with the Department of Public Works (DPW) director. The aim is to improve communication between residents and the DPW regarding tree planting efforts in the borough. There was some debate on whether to establish this committee through ordinance and further discussion on its functions and reporting structure was suggested.

The council also introduced several ordinances. Ordinance 24-16, concerning the downtown overlay district and a parking lot project limited to 20 spots, was set for a hearing on August 5, 2024, and passed unanimously. Ordinance 24-17, addressing compensation rates for supervisory employees from 2024 to 2027, and Ordinance 24-18, amending salary ranges for non-represented employees, were also introduced and passed unanimously.

In committee reports, the Board of Adjustment reviewed applications for property modifications, the Senior Center announced a garage sale for August 24, and the Board of Health reminded residents about mosquito prevention and colorectal cancer screening. The Tenafly Nature Center’s initiatives, including pollinator gardens and the event “Cocktails Under the Stars,” were highlighted, and residents were reminded about the helium balloon ordinance.

An environmental issue regarding garbage in the Stop and Shop parking lot was discussed. The council confirmed reviewing a planning board resolution related to the matter and emphasized the need for cleanliness in the area.