0:08The council acknowledged the challenges the revaluation poses, especially as it coincides with the township’s Centennial celebrations planned for 2026. There was an expressed intent to pursue administrative pathways to appeal for a one-year extension. The composition of the county tax board, which is appointed by the governor, was discussed, alongside the procedural steps involved in the revaluation request process. The county tax administrator makes recommendations to the tax board, which then votes on such matters. The council considered reiterating their request for an extension, emphasizing the inconvenience of conducting a revaluation during this transitional period for the township.

26:43Attention then shifted to a special meeting scheduled for the following week, aimed at addressing the town’s affordable housing obligations. The council discussed the fourth round of affordable housing obligations mandated by the state, with a proposed specific obligation number of 387 from the Department of Community Affairs (DCA). However, Beth McManis, the town’s affordable housing planner, expressed confidence in negotiating this number down. A resolution regarding this number is to be passed at the upcoming special meeting, required to be filed within 48 hours of approval by the end of the month.

The ongoing litigation concerning these obligations involves 27 municipalities contesting the fourth round’s rules. The litigation includes a fifth amended complaint with additional counts, as the initial motions to stay the obligations were unsuccessful. The primary arguments claim that the fourth round terms exceed the requirements of the general welfare clause and constitute an unfunded local mandate, among other constitutional issues. There is hope that increased visibility will lead to more municipalities joining the litigation.

0:08In other council business, the meeting discussed various resolutions, including contract awards related to tax appeals and components of the township’s application for Sustainable Jersey, such as the Green Team and Green Building policy. The council also authorized the purchase of a Chevy Tahoe for the police department and renewed a shared service agreement with Bergen County for an employee assistance program. Resolution 77, concerning an extension of budget process dates, was acknowledged as a new state requirement needing formal approval. Resolution 78 involved budget transfers for the 2024 budget year.

Several ongoing and planned projects were highlighted, including renovations to the police department, road resurfacing, and Centennial celebrations. The finance committee is preparing for the 2025 municipal budget. The introduction of the 2025 capital budget is expected at the next meeting.

The meeting also recognized the retirement of Dr. Klopp after 50 years of practice, with a proposal to issue a proclamation in his honor, particularly for his role in conducting the rabies clinic. The proclamation acknowledges his contributions to the Board of Health, where he served as president for approximately a dozen years.

13:31Community engagement remains a priority for the council, as evidenced by the appointment of a new member to the Shade Tree Commission and updates from various community events. One member reported attending the WF Ambulance dinner and congratulated the new officers for 2025. Another member discussed the Recreation Board meeting and a senior lunch with nearly 50 participants. There was also recognition for Joey Fukko, a senior at Ramapo High School, who became the Bergen County champion in the 144-weight division.

The planning board meeting was described as uneventful, while the library board meeting noted a positive development with circulation exceeding pre-pandemic levels. Updates on the Department of Public Works included effective snow removal and pothole repairs. The fire department’s training focused on ice rescue techniques.