Eileen Birmingham

The Council reviewed the municipal supplemental debt statement and heard a presentation regarding a geography project by the Montclair Society of Engineers. Several ordinances were discussed and adopted, including the New Jersey Public Health Nuisance Code, codification of township ordinances, traffic legislation, and various bond ordinances for street, sidewalk, and infrastructure improvements, as well as cable television studio equipment acquisition. The Council discussed the designation of specific properties as areas in need of redevelopment, including the former Hahnes department store site. Resolutions were passed to award professional service contracts for architectural work, approve vehicle purchases, manage temporary budget appropriations, and authorize license transfers. Furthermore, the Council addressed property easements, right of entry agreements, and the removal of certain properties from the list of deteriorated buildings, while also reviewing various monthly departmental reports.

The Council approved the submission of a grant application to the New Jersey Department of Transportation for the Highland Avenue Improvements project. The resolution authorizes the Mayor and Clerk to execute the grant agreement and formally accept its terms and conditions on behalf of the township.

The Board of Adjustment heard an appeal regarding a building permit application for a single-family dwelling. The applicant sought variances from the zoning ordinance for side yard spaces and setback requirements, which had been previously denied by the Inspector of Buildings. After considering the appeal, the Board decided to reverse the decision of the Inspector of Buildings and ordered the issuance of the permit in accordance with the application.

The Township Council conducted a regular meeting where several ordinances were addressed, including amendments to the code regarding animals and vacant property, and the introduction of a redevelopment plan for Lackawanna Plaza. The council approved a consent agenda covering various resolutions such as cancelling grant receivables, awarding emergency repair contracts, appointing representatives to community committees, and authorizing professional service agreements for accounting, plumbing, and legal counsel. Additionally, the council discussed the 2023 meeting schedule, internal budget transfers, and the renewal of technical support service plans for the city's communication infrastructure.

The council meeting addressed various topics including public comments on a Rent Control Ordinance, the adoption of several ordinances regarding capital improvements, native vegetation, and cannabis licensing, and the tabling of a diversity inclusion program ordinance. The council reviewed and approved a consent agenda covering multiple resolutions such as municipal contracts for maintenance and repair services, tree planting, professional veterinary and arborist consulting services, and the acquisition of police vehicles. Additionally, the council discussed shared services for health services, approved the construction of skateable structures, and conducted an executive session regarding pending litigation and personnel matters. Various reports were provided by council members and staff on community events and local initiatives.