Elizabeth Brandsness

The Mayor and Council held a public hearing for the FY 2026 Passaic County Open Space, Farmland, and Historic Preservation Trust Fund Grant Program. Key actions included the approval of several resolutions, such as authorizing grant submittals for the Willow Field Playground and DuPont Place Park projects, awarding a nursing services contract to Atlantic Health System, and authorizing participation in the 1033 Program for police equipment. The council also discussed proposed amendments to the solicitor regulations, including fee structures and operating hours. Additionally, several ordinances were addressed regarding municipal budget appropriation limits, workplace conduct, and vendor fees. A settlement agreement with a municipal employee was approved during the closed session.

The committee discussed updates regarding the Open Space Trust Fund balance and the status of various project grant applications. Project updates included temporary relocations for t-ball due to drainage issues, construction proximity to a playground, the near-completion of the Hershfield Park Garage, and maintenance needs for the basketball court. Additionally, the committee reviewed plans for an upcoming river clean-up event, discussed maintenance responsibilities for facilities, and addressed inquiries regarding signage replacement. Members also touched upon a future presentation by a County Commissioner, the publication of trail maintenance volunteer dates, and an upcoming rain garden workshop.

The Council reviewed and approved several resolutions and ordinances, including the 2026 municipal budget and special improvement district budget. Key actions involved the authorization of tax lien refunds, an extension of the grace period for business improvement district tax bills, and the approval of various service contracts for recycling, garbage truck rentals, and dumpster purchases. The Council also established shared services agreements, including temporary fire sub code official services with Wayne Township. Additionally, ordinances were adopted regarding the repeal of affordable housing obligations at 430-460 Montclair Avenue, salary adjustments for the Municipal Utilities Authority, and new workplace conduct and compliance policies for borough employees.

The agenda includes the review and approval of professional service and legal fee payments to Colliers Engineering & Design and Maraziti Falcon LLP, as well as an escrow refund. The Board will address various correspondence regarding land development ordinances from the Township of Wayne, adopted zoning ordinances from the Borough of Oakland, legal notice posting regulations, and amendments to local affordable housing chapters and redevelopment plans. Appointments for Board member and alternate positions will be conducted. Finally, the session will address specific land use applications for properties at 132 Watervliet Avenue and 20 Passaic Avenue.

The committee discussed the Open Space Trust Fund balance and several ongoing park projects, including developments at Hershfield Park, the Willow Field playground project, and the Lakeside Park boathouse renovation. Other key topics included the status of property acquisition at 100 Broad Street, the pending county bridge replacement, installation of a lightning detection system, and administrative updates regarding the bench donation program and borough newsletter. Members also proposed future priorities, such as the Muller property and potential park amenities like game tables and charcoal grills, and explored the idea of hiring a landscape architect for long-term goal planning.