The Council’s discussion on affordable housing took center stage, focusing on a resolution identified as number 25-55, which relates to compliance with state-imposed affordable housing mandates. The council’s approach aims to balance the borough’s housing needs with maintaining control over its zoning regulations. The original housing number set by the Department of Community Affairs was 423 units, a figure the council found burdensome. Through a analysis, including reviewing new census data and applying a vacant land adjustment strategy, the council successfully reduced this requirement to 329 units.

Council members emphasized the significance of this resolution, which not only aligns with state requirements but also protects Woodcliff Lake from builder remedy lawsuits until 2035. This protection allows the borough to oversee its zoning issues and avoid undesirable development scenarios that could arise from external pressures.

Following the housing discussion, attention shifted to the recently introduced tree data management software, aimed at enhancing public engagement with the town’s shade trees. A consulting arborist, Ray, presented a detailed inventory that identified 5,456 street trees and highlighted the diversity of 147 species. This diversity is seen as beneficial in mitigating disease risks. The new software, known as AR Pro, offers a dynamic online database with real-time updates on tree species, condition, and maintenance history, providing the public works department and the committee with essential tools for effective tree management.

The council deliberated on how to facilitate public access to this information, considering options like providing limited credentials or creating an Excel output file with tree data by address. Training on this software was scheduled. The council recognized the ecological benefits of trees, including stormwater management and pollution control, and encouraged community support for maintaining public trees.

Other topics included the establishment of a historical society as part of preparations for the 250th anniversary of the American Revolution in 2026. The council plans to collaborate with Revolution 250 representatives to highlight historical sites in Bergen County. Efforts to engage the community through events like the chili cook-off and the “Cocoa with a Cop” initiative were also discussed.

In education, the local high school district received a $75,000 grant focused on advancing artificial intelligence education, awarded to only twelve districts. This grant supports initiatives like “AI Literacy for Parents,” a virtual event designed to help parents navigate the evolving educational landscape.

Additionally, the council addressed infrastructure improvements, including a traffic study for the intersection of W Cliff and Old Mill and the installation of new light posts at the Woodcliff Lake train station. State-level discussions about transit projects and potential grant funding were also mentioned, showing the council’s stance in securing resources for local improvements.

The meeting concluded with updates on ongoing capital planning efforts for the upcoming year and the introduction of ordinances aimed at aligning regulations for the town’s tree canopy. These ordinances passed without opposition.