Cristina Cutrone

The council meeting included proclamations for Knockout Opioid Abuse Day, Hindu American Awareness and Appreciation Month, Italian-American Heritage and Culture Month, Domestic Violence Awareness Month, and ADHD Awareness Month. Discussions covered opioid abuse statistics, the contributions and challenges faced by Hindu Americans, the influence of Italian-Americans, domestic violence prevention, and support for individuals with ADHD. Council members also shared updates on community events and recognized Fair Lawn's ranking as a top place to live in New Jersey.

The meeting commenced with a compliance statement regarding the Open Public Meetings Act. Key agenda items involved the proclamation of February 2026 as Black History Month and the proclamation of January 2026 as Muslim Heritage Month, both recognizing the contributions of respective communities. Additionally, the council proclaimed January 28th, 2026, as Fairlon 7th and Eighth Grade WCK Boys Soccer Fire Team Day, honoring their undefeated season and exemplary sportsmanship, with recognition extended to the coach. Council members provided comments, including acknowledging the DPW workers for handling a recent significant storm, congratulating the youth athletes, and expressing gratitude for the community's diversity and spirit of volunteerism, such as within the Fire Department.

The council meeting included discussions and recognition of various community events and initiatives. Condolences were offered to the Hineki and Ronaldo families, and appreciation was expressed for the borough clerk's handling of the election. The Arts Council was congratulated for their work in enhancing the borough's quality of life. The council also acknowledged the success of the Dylan Ronaldo fundraiser and the Veterans Day program. Discussions also focused on the importance of community support, empathy, and rejection of hate, especially in light of the ongoing war in Israel and Gaza. The council bid farewell to Borough Manager Jim Vancouigan, recognizing his years of service.

The meeting commenced with the call to order, followed by well wishes and acknowledgments for Deputy Mayor Rottenstrich, who is leaving after over seven years of dedicated service. A major portion of the meeting was dedicated to recognizing the historic achievements of the Fair Lawn High School girls varsity soccer team for winning the Big North Conference Independence Division Championship and reaching the state sectional semi-finalist stage. Several elected officials and community leaders presented commendations to Deputy Mayor Rottenstrich for her extensive service across various committees, including the Planning Board, Green Team Advisory Committee, Economic Development Committee, Shade Tree Advisory Committee, and Garden Club. The committee chairs also highlighted her support for the Arts Council and her pivotal role in advancing tree canopy initiatives, ordinance rewriting, and securing funding for the new Peace Park plantings. Additionally, the Council recognized the soccer team members and coaching staff.

The council meeting included promotions within the police department, recognizing championship baseball teams, and the junior track team. The council proclaimed October as Hindu American Awareness and Appreciation Month, highlighting the community's contributions and promoting understanding. The meeting also touched on the etymological background of the word Hindu and some of the Hindu heritages to the world.