Mayor Peter Calamari led the swearing-in ceremony, beginning with Sergeant Vincent Santa. Santa, with a career that started at the Hawthorne Police Department, transitioned to Washington Township in 2011. His leadership during the COVID-19 crisis and his compassionate approach to a distressed military veteran were particularly praised, illustrating his qualities of empathy and respect. Sergeant Santa’s roles as a firearms instructor and lead active shooter instructor further highlighted his contribution to the department.

Following Santa’s promotion, Corporal Robert Lusome was sworn in. Lusome’s background includes significant roles in cybercrime investigations and contributions to improving the department’s technology resources. His recent assignment to the Bergen County Prosecutor’s Office’s cyber crimes task force was noted as a career highlight. Police Officer Steven Ryell Jr. was also recognized for his educational background in criminology and his supervision of the township’s summer recreation program.

The meeting also saw the swearing-in of new Special Law Enforcement Officers (SLEO). Vincent Montalbano III and Justin Bash were appointed, with both set to attend the Bergen County Police Academy. Montalbano, a lifelong resident and volunteer firefighter, was particularly noted for his academic achievements. SLEO 1 officers Morgan Cherer and Andrew Eer were also welcomed into the department, further bolstering the township’s law enforcement capabilities.

Budget discussions were a focal point, particularly concerning the township’s financial strategies and expenditures. The introduction of a Recycling Coach app was announced to streamline recycling schedules and enhance service efficiency. Additionally, the council discussed the financial implications of the shared service agreement with Saddle River Municipal Court and the necessity of updating the township website to inform residents of the court office closure.

Council members scrutinized expenditures, notably questioning a purchase order related to TK Elevator Corporation. The inquiry revealed a clerical error in budget documentation, clarifying that the project remained within its financial limits. Further discussions highlighted savings achieved through the township’s Amazon account, reflecting fiscal responsibility and satisfaction among council members.

In terms of future planning, the mayor highlighted ongoing and upcoming projects, such as the stabilization project for a local brook and the potential construction of a new Department of Public Works (DPW) building. The council acknowledged the necessity of purchasing new garbage trucks to replace old ones and recognized the traffic bureau’s efforts in improving safety.

Community initiatives were also a part of the meeting’s agenda. The mayor reported on the successful accreditation of the police department, which resulted in a discount on insurance premiums. He expressed gratitude for the township’s sports teams and recreation programs, particularly a summer program that served over 500 children. The mayor also noted improvements in the library’s participation, largely due to a new special needs program.

Moreover, the council discussed updates on the township’s master plan, the implementation of a new health insurance plan for employees, and shared service agreements with neighboring municipalities. The meeting concluded with discussions on ordinance amendments regarding parking and storage regulations for boats and commercial vehicles in residential districts, reflecting ongoing efforts to address residents’ concerns about community regulations.