Erik I. DeLine

The meeting focused on formal organizational matters and approvals for the year 2026. Key actions included adopting the Bylaws for the Borough Council for 2026 and confirming the Mayor's appointments for Municipal Attorney. The Council approved appointments for numerous Boards, Committees, and Commissions, including the Board of Adjustment, the Planning Board, the Board of Health, the Shade Tree Commission, and the Environmental Advisory Committee, with specific term lengths detailed for each position. Temporary appropriations for operating purposes for 2026 were approved, along with authorizations for Petty Cash Funds. The Mayor delivered year-end comments reflecting on 2025 achievements such as adopting the Housing Element and Fair Share Plan, settling tax appeals, upgrading the electrical circuit in the South End, launching a new Borough website, and receiving a grant for flood study. Future focus areas for the new year include analyzing jitney service feedback, pressing PSE&G for electrical grid upgrades, and planning for the 250th Anniversary of the American Revolution. The date for the 2026 Reorganization Meeting was set for January 4, 2027, with regular meetings scheduled throughout 2026.

The key discussions and actions during this meeting included the approval of claims across various Borough funds totaling over $3.4 million, and authorization for the Chief Financial Officer to issue the payroll for January 1, 2026. Additionally, the Mayor and Council approved a Social Affair Permit application for The Women's Club of Glen Ridge for a February 2026 fundraiser. The council authorized entering into a settlement agreement with Montclair Hospital, LLC, to resolve multiple pending tax appeal matters, providing for mutual withdrawal of claims to avoid future litigation costs. Furthermore, resolutions were passed to authorize settlement agreements with Fair Share Housing Center and JMF Properties LLC regarding the Borough's Fourth Round fair share housing obligations, specifically concerning the 200 Highland Avenue Tract development plan.

The meeting commenced with a Salute to the Flag and a statement confirming adequate public notice was provided. A proclamation honoring Councilor Peter A. Hughes for his extensive public service, including terms as Mayor, Council member, and committee chair, was presented. Members of the Council, Borough Administrator, and Chief of Police expressed thanks for his dedication to improving borough finances, infrastructure, and public safety. During the public comments segment, several residents expressed support for the current jitney program and urged its continuation. The council also passed several resolutions conveying commendation and grateful acknowledgment for the valued services rendered by volunteers: Geoffery Darby (Library Board of Trustees and Historic Preservation Commission), Sydney Carey (Board of Health), Robert Morrow (Planning Board), Anthony Turiano (Planning Board), and Ana Davidson (Environmental Advisory Commission). The session concluded with adjournment.

The meeting confirmed a quorum and proceeded with business under the Open Public Sunshine Act. Key discussions and actions included approving the minutes of the December 8, 2025 meeting, approving claims and drawing warrants totaling approximately $3.3 million from the current fund (Resolution 161-25), and approving a social affairs permit for the Women's Club of Glen Ridge for an event on February 6 (Resolution 162-25). Additionally, the council addressed tax appeal settlements with Montclair Hospital (Resolution 163-25) and authorized settlement agreements concerning affordable housing disputes with Fairshair Housing Center and JMF Properties LLC (Resolution 164-25). Comments were made acknowledging the year-end work, thanking staff, and recognizing the service of a departing council member.

The meeting included discussions on a power outage and planned replacement of the circuit in the south end. The council congratulated the boys' soccer team for winning the state championship. A CDBG hearing was held, focusing on community development block grants and ADA accessibility projects. The council authorized payment of bills, including significant amounts to the board of education and the county, and approved a refund for overpayment of tax. An ordinance establishing titles and salaries for non-union employees was introduced for first reading. The council approved a raffle license for a casino night. Updates were provided on upcoming community events, including the Ashenfelter race and the town tree lighting. A resolution was passed to award the replacement of the Carteret water main, and an ordinance to appropriate capital improvement funds was adopted. The meeting concluded with committee reports and public comments.