The meeting commenced with the council approving a series of contracts aimed at improving the borough’s infrastructure. Marini Brothers Construction Inc secured a $4,285,2024 contract for the 2024 Road resurfacing program and ADA curb ramp upgrades. The investment in infrastructure continued with the awarding of a $135,136 contract to Hudson County Motors for a single-axle rolloff truck, crucial for the borough’s waste management operations. DNL Paving Contractors were awarded a $474,313 contract for the 2024 Road rehabilitation project.

Professional services were also contracted, with H2M receiving $126,000 for the rehabilitation of water storage tanks, encompassing engineering, legal permits, and contingencies. Community Grants Planning and Housing was awarded a contract not to exceed $55,800 for housing rehabilitation administrative services and case management, highlighting the council’s focus on community development and support services.

Licensing approvals for the Waldwick Lions Club and All County Car and Limo LLC were granted, facilitating community events and transportation services.

Personnel changes were addressed, with the council accepting the resignation of DPW laborer Phil Soby and appointing a registrar, deputy registrar, and alter registrar of vital statistics. The release of dumpster escrow for two addresses was authorized, and the council certified the annual audit.

a discussion arose during the public hearing regarding a proposed lease agreement with the Waldwick High School graduation ball Inc for the use of the old DPW complex. Concerns were raised about the potential opening of the dead-end street on Dana Drive, which may disrupt neighborhood tranquility and raise questions of fairness regarding curb cut privileges for an Allendale resident on a Waldwick street. The Mayor suggested that the administrator engage with the residents to inform them that the street would remain closed.

The council introduced ordinances focused on public improvements, including a bond ordinance to amend a previous bond for various public improvements and the acquisition of equipment for the water utility. Moreover, the introduction of a hate speech policy for the swimming pool municipal section sparked debate among the council members. The need to combat negative and hateful language was recognized, though the implementation of zero-tolerance policies for minors required careful consideration to ensure appropriate consequences.

The council recognized and commended officers who participated in the bike ride for Officer Goodell, reflecting on the strong community support for local law enforcement. Public comments addressed the lease agreement for the old DPW garage, with discussion on the possibility of renewing the agreement annually.

Concluding the meeting, a motion was made to go into close, where council members discussed plans for the weekend and the potential annual renewal of the DPW garage lease.