A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to a detailed presentation by Todd P, a senior partner at a tax and advisory firm, on the cannabis industry. He outlined the challenges municipalities face, including licensing decisions, the high cost of cannabis products, and the prevalence of the legacy market. The discussion included the economic benefits for the community, such as potential tax revenue generation from cannabis dispensaries, and the difficulties related to banking and taxes within the industry. The council explored the intricacies of the legal cannabis market, discussing the distribution of tax revenue and the costs associated with obtaining a cannabis license.

The conversation about the cannabis industry was part of a broader discussion on various community projects and initiatives. The council addressed the issue of downward sloping garages and water damage, connecting with Kieran Patel, a Life Scout from Troop 63, who presented his Eagle Scout project aimed at supporting the borough’s composting pilot program. The members agreed to provide assistance and connect him with relevant individuals to advance the project.

Donations to various parks were another focal point, with the council debating the need for a name for a specific park and the creation of a wish list to guide potential donors. The idea of potential online payment options for donations was also brought up.

Infrastructure projects were a notable topic, with updates provided on a range of endeavors, including a traffic engineer’s progress, bids for the Swim Club project, and the timeline for roadway repairs. A meeting with the county regarding Ada ramps was discussed, alongside plans for an open space allocation ordinance and anticipated construction projects for pickleball and volleyball courts. The Riverside Co-op project was also a point of discussion, with the process for awarding a contract being outlined.

The council highlighted the local capital budget amendments and the approval of various resolutions related to demolition, construction, and repairs. They also engaged a planner to explore the potential construction of a new Senior Center. Additionally, the approval of ordinance 2407, which deals with a four-way stop intersection at Highwood Avenue and Jay Street, was confirmed and published.

During the public comments section, concerns were raised about Cafe Angelique’s lease extension at the old Tenafly railroad station, which allows the cafe to unilaterally decide to extend their contract. The council also discussed improvements to the Little League field, focusing on the turf infield and ADA bathrooms, with potential funding coming from grants, the open space fund, and the Little League itself.

The discussion around the Little League field was extensive, with the council considering grant applications for improvements and the allocation of nearly $200,000 from grants and the open space fund. Fundraising efforts for additional funds, the condition of the fields, and the clubhouse were also debated. A council member voiced embarrassment over the current state of facilities compared to neighboring towns.

The issue of surplus property and vehicles came up, with questions about transferring vehicles to other departments. The amendment of the temporary budget and clarifications on specific allocations and additional engineering fees were also addressed.

Councilwoman Dr. Okana brought attention to the passing of a local famous owl, Flo, sparking a conversation about proposed bird safety legislation and the elimination of rodenticides in the community.

The debates and disagreements were not explicitly evident in the provided transcript portions.