Gerard Smithson

The meeting included the presentation of an award to mural artists and reviews of monthly reports from various departments. Several resolutions were passed, including a change order and contract closeout for the Veterans Memorial Park Basketball Court project, the appointment of representatives to the Bergen County Community Development Regional Committee, and the renewal of various liquor licenses. Additionally, the council authorized the cancellation of an account receivable for the Riverside Cooperative, awarded a bid for tree removal and trimming services, approved an extension for road improvement program bid prices, authorized tax refunds due to veteran status and overpayments, and approved a shared services agreement with the Borough of Rockleigh for fire services. Finally, the council discussed the sale of surplus property via online auction and held a second reading and public hearing for an ordinance amending the property maintenance code regarding garbage containers.

The meeting focused on the introduction and initial approval of the 2026 Municipal Budget, including an ordinance to exceed municipal budget appropriation limits and the use of the last three years' tax collection rate to calculate the reserve for uncollected taxes. The council also authorized the preparation and mailing of estimated tax bills for the third installment of 2026 and approved the submission of a grant application to the New Jersey Department of Transportation for road improvement projects involving Willow Avenue, Firenze Avenue, Clinton Avenue, and Tappan Road.

The board meeting included a public hearing on open space application improvements for John L. Hogan Memorial Park. Key resolutions approved included authorization for various municipal contracts such as the DPW Superintendent and Assistant Superintendent, shared service agreements for senior transportation and joint purchasing, and professional service agreements. The council also authorized the honorary naming of a street, adjustments to borough office summer hours, tax assessor appointment, and tax cancellations for totally disabled veterans. Additionally, an ordinance amendment regarding property maintenance was introduced, and various financial claims were ratified.

The board conducted its reorganization meeting, which included the election of the President and Vice President. Meeting dates for the year were established, and appointments were made for the Animal Warden and Pest Control Officer. A resolution was authorized regarding the Bloodborne Pathogen Program agreement. The board reviewed 2025 revenue collections and ratified bills paid at the end of the year. Additionally, the Secretary provided a report on license renewals, and the board accepted reports from the Health Officer, the Nurse, and the Animal Control Officer.

The board meeting agenda includes the review of a use variance application for Eastern Allied Construction Co., Inc. regarding the construction of a duplex with two single-family homes at 155 Walnut Street.