A major highlight of the meeting was the annual toy drive conducted by the Little Falls Police Department. With community support, the drive successfully collected numerous toys to be delivered to St. Joseph’s, as shared by the Chief of Police, who expressed gratitude for the contributions, particularly acknowledging resident Jessica Myers for her assistance with event decorations. The Chief also used the opportunity to inform attendees of a holiday enforcement campaign aimed at reducing incidents of driving while intoxicated (DWI). This initiative will involve an additional 100 hours of patrols during the holiday season, funded without taxpayer expense. He emphasized the importance of roadway safety, encouraging residents to utilize rideshare services.

Infrastructure developments were another focal point, starting with Mayor James Damiano’s updates on the new traffic light at the intersection of Francisco and Cedar Grove Road. The mayor detailed the progress, explaining that the vertical mast arm had been installed and that Public Service was expected to relocate power cables to complete the installation of the horizontal arm. This project aims to address the intersection’s history of accidents and improve overall safety. The mayor also discussed the delays in the downtown parking lot project, attributed to the relocation of telephone poles and ensuring uninterrupted power supply to a nearby school. The completion of the project is contingent on laying a final asphalt topcoat.

The council meeting also featured ceremonial recognitions, celebrating local softball teams for their outstanding performance. The 12U team, coached by Alby Vasquez, was lauded for an extraordinary season with a 72-1 record, culminating in a championship victory. Coach Vasquez expressed pride in his team’s achievements and a commitment to continuous improvement. Similarly, the 10U team, coached by Jamie Mauso, was recognized for their growth and teamwork throughout a challenging season. Coach Mauso commended her players for adapting to new rules and levels of play.

In community initiatives, the town council discussed the successful pancake breakfast hosted by the local police department, which received positive feedback from attendees. Council members also highlighted upcoming public health events, such as free HIV and blood lead testing, scheduled at the Clifton satellite office. These events aim to promote health awareness and encourage participation through gift card incentives.

Another proposal discussed was the renaming of the Domestic Violence Prevention Committee to the Domestic Violence Awareness Committee. The council members considered this change to better reflect the committee’s purpose. The council president supported the update, noting the importance of names that accurately represent the committee’s function.

The meeting also addressed legislative actions with the adoption of two ordinances. Ordinance 1506 involved repealing and replacing existing flood hazard regulations, and Ordinance 1507 pertained to amendments in fee structures. Both ordinances passed without public comment during the hearings and were adopted unanimously.

Council members expressed discontent with a decision by Montclair State University’s president to acquire a residence in Little Falls, which would remove the property from the township’s tax rolls. The council president described the situation as perturbing, highlighting the potential negative impact on local tax revenue.