0:01The council’s primary focus was on the approval and introduction of several ordinances aimed at bolstering the town’s infrastructure and safety measures. Ordinance 2029, dedicated to road resurfacing and improvements to the town hall, allocated $1,391,775. Similarly, Ordinance 2030 designated $1,340,000 for additional road resurfacing and the acquisition of a new computer server for the police department. Ordinance 2031, which amended previous bond Ordinance 1962, appropriated $1,725,000 for road resurfacing and the purchase of a dump truck.

A significant allocation was also made for emergency services, with Ordinance 2033 appropriating $2.4 million for the acquisition of a new fire ladder truck.

0:00In addition to these infrastructure investments, the council addressed accessibility improvements through Ordinance 2035, which allocated $65,000 for engineering and design work to make crosswalks on county roads ADA-compliant. This project is slated for execution over the next three years and is fully funded by Bergen County.

Alongside infrastructure and equipment funding, the council also focused on public safety personnel. Two police officers, Kathleen Powderly and Marissa Santo, were recommended for regular appointment after successfully completing their probationary periods.

The council also discussed the near completion of the town hall roof replacement project. The mayor provided an update, noting that the project would likely conclude in about two weeks, weather permitting, with all related work expected to be finished by April 15. This project is part of the council’s ongoing efforts to maintain and improve municipal facilities.

Other notable topics included the introduction of the 2025 municipal budget, anticipated for the first meeting in March. The finance committee is expected to finalize the budget details shortly. Preparations are also underway to renew the Animal Control contract, and township staff have been reminded to complete cybersecurity training by March 30, a requirement of the town’s cyber insurance policy.

The meeting also addressed community engagement and public affairs, with updates on the New Jersey League of Municipalities Lewis Bay II scholarship application, available to high school juniors and seniors. The council emphasized the scholarship’s theme of appreciating one’s hometown, encouraging students to reflect on their community’s value.

Additionally, the council received updates on the township’s affordable housing obligations. The absence of objections to the proposed figures allowed for a smooth approval process, with plans to collaborate with an affordable housing planner as necessary.