One item at the meeting was a presentation honoring Kenneth G. Paer for his four decades of service. The mayor expressed admiration for Mr. Paer’s dedication to the community, recounting his tenure and the importance of his legal counsel. Visibly moved, Paer acknowledged the honor, stating, “It’s been an honor and a privilege to serve them for all these years.” A plaque commemorating his service was presented, and state Senator Shapiro offered a proclamation highlighting Paer’s commitment and contributions, emphasizing the challenges and complexities navigated by a municipal attorney.

Amid the accolades, the council addressed a issue: the feasibility study for ambulance services. A proposal emerged to collaborate with neighboring towns for a study exploring potential solutions and economies of scale in providing ambulance services, referencing a transition to a paid daytime program by Hillsdale as a possible model. The study, quoted at $177,400 to be split among four towns, would cost Washington Township $4,350. The motion to approve the funding for the study received unanimous support.

This collaborative approach aims to enhance emergency response capabilities, with suggestions to explore temporary solutions like part-time paid coverage supplementing volunteer services. The study will also consider integrating paid positions within the Department of Public Works (DPW) to bridge gaps in staffing, a strategy successfully implemented in other towns where DPW personnel obtain EMT training to respond to emergency calls during work hours. Additionally, the discussion touched on the billing practices of other towns and potential partnerships with Bergen County, which recently acquired 30 ambulances, to bolster local services.

In another significant topic, the council delved into proposed zoning changes and ordinances affecting lot sizes, impervious coverage, and building heights. A particular focus was on the DB zone allowing for single-family dwellings on larger lots, increasing the minimum square footage from 7,500 to 18,000. This change aims to create a more sustainable environment and ensure lot consistency with existing ordinances. Clarifying definitions within the zoning ordinance, especially concerning corner lots, side yards, and building height, was emphasized to avoid restrictive and convoluted interpretations.

Furthermore, the council discussed setbacks for side and rear yards related to accessory structures like sheds and pools. There was a suggestion to review other towns’ regulations and consider increasing the percentage of rear yard coverage from 15% to 20%, acknowledging the varying needs of residents, particularly those with smaller lots. The conversation also highlighted the necessity to revise definitions for impervious surfaces based on existing standards from the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) to aid homeowners and maintain consistency.

Other agenda items included updates on various township projects and community programs. Notable updates included drainage improvements at Amhurst and Pasak, nearing completion of library renovations, and ongoing playground updates with batting cages and infield rehabilitation. The sewer repair project, awaiting approval from the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP), raised concerns over potential environmental disasters if unaddressed.

The council also addressed budget discussions, particularly regarding the Director of Finance’s salary and the need for adequate oversight of the finance department, including the offices of assessment and revenue. The conversation revealed that the finance director position was funded for only half the year, impacting the performance of finance functions.

The meeting later transitioned to discussing overnight parking regulations, where the chief of police explained the outdated ordinance prohibiting parking from 2 a.m. to 5 a.m. and the recent reduction in the number of allowed overnight parking days from ten to six. This adjustment aimed to mitigate complaints about vehicles being left on the street too frequently. The chief referenced potential solutions from a neighboring town’s ordinance, proposing hardship permits for residents with parking constraints, allowing them to park on the street if their driveways lacked sufficient space.