During the public comment section, several residents expressed frustration and concern regarding the quality of water in their homes. Jod Fortino, a resident of Sheridan Avenue, initiated the discussion by describing a persistent problem with his water following a water main break on West Saddle River Road around the Fourth of July. Fortino reported a “tinted yellow color” and a “metallic like river smelling” odor in his water, particularly noticeable when filling the tub or washing machine. He emphasized that while the discoloration had improved somewhat, the smell remained an issue.

The mayor responded to Fortino’s concerns and directed him to Steven Neil, the borough’s administrator with expertise in water issues. Neil provided an update on ongoing water main replacement work in the area, specifically mentioning a project involving Hemlock and Evergreen Streets aimed at improving the water system’s connectivity. Neil explained that elevated levels of iron, associated with cast iron piping, might be contributing to the odor.

Following Fortino, Mike Gell, a resident of Waldwick Avenue, shared his experience of dealing with yellowish water for the past 65 days. Gell detailed the negative impacts on his family’s daily life, including ruined laundry and the need to filter water for drinking. He confirmed that while the water was deemed safe to drink, the persistent smell and discoloration led his family to avoid using it for cooking and bathing. Gell emphasized the urgency of the situation, stating, “We just kind of need an answer.”

Neil replied to Gell. He mentioned a plan for a temporary flushing system to be set up on Waldwick Avenue, which would run continuously for about 48 hours to help clear the lines. Gell expressed concern about the flushing disrupting water flow to homes, but Neil reassured him that the flushing process wouldn’t cause the meter to run excessively.

Another resident, Ran Gipa, echoed similar frustrations regarding the water quality, particularly highlighting health concerns for her 18-month-old child. Gipa mentioned that her family’s laundry was being ruined and noted that the issue had worsened since the water main break.

Throughout these discussions, residents conveyed a sense of urgency and frustration, demanding a clear resolution to the problems they were facing with their water supply. The mayor and Neil acknowledged the issues and reiterated the importance of residents reporting their concerns to facilitate tracking and resolution. Neil emphasized the borough’s ongoing efforts to investigate and address the water quality issues affecting these neighborhoods.

In addition to the water quality concerns, the council addressed the challenges in maintaining adequate staffing levels for crossing guards. The committee highlighted the borough’s pay rate analysis, which revealed that Waldwick was underpaying its crossing guards compared to surrounding towns. The council expressed a commitment to adjusting the pay to be competitive, thereby ensuring the retention of staff and maintaining safety for schoolchildren.

The fire and police protection committee reported on 25 calls received since the last meeting, including incidents involving residential fire alarms and mutual aid calls. It was noted that 15 members of the fire department attended the New Jersey state firemen’s convention. Additionally, a tower ladder was scheduled to be dispatched to an event in White Off on September 28.

The public safety committee provided updates on the ambulance corps, noting a resignation due to increased responsibilities following a recent death within the organization. The committee discussed the borough’s park renovations.

The public works committee reported on various maintenance activities, including the completion of catch basin work and ongoing road paving efforts. Preparations for fall leaf cleanup were underway, and preventive maintenance checks on snow removal equipment had been completed to ensure readiness for winter. The committee was also interviewing candidates for an open role within the Department of Public Works.

The borough clerk provided details on a resolution concerning the annual graduation ball calendar raffle and information on the upcoming election. Several resolutions were introduced for approval, including the appointment of a senior member to the volunteer fire department and a change order for improvements on Hudson Avenue and Boner Place. The council also discussed a three-year contract with Tamron Association for snow plowing services, which included annual payments scheduled to increase each year.

The environmental committee shared updates on recycling practices, particularly concerning styrofoam, and reported that 3,600 pounds of plastic had been recycled. The committee also mentioned their intention to prepare a proposal for the capital aspect of the Bridge flower project and welcomed three new members set to be officially sworn in at the next meeting.