Joanne Van Hook

The governing body addressed multiple resolutions during their proceedings. Key actions included approving a request by the Haledon Volunteer Fire Department to conduct a Tag Day, subject to conditions regarding location safety and solicitation personnel. The Council authorized the Municipal Clerk to advertise for 2026 Professional Services proposals. Advice and consent were provided for the appointment of Jack Marchione as part-time Tax Assessor following the retirement of the previous assessor, and for the appointment of Felix Esposito as Plumbing Subcode Official. Furthermore, a contract was awarded to D&L Paving Contractors for the FY 2024 NJDOT Municipal Aid Program roadway improvements. The governing body also authorized the extension of the health services agreement with the Passaic County Health Department for five additional years and approved the purchase of one refuse collection vehicle for the Department of Public Works. Finally, a resolution was passed authorizing the refund of redemption monies related to a tax sale certificate for property at 101 Rock Ledge Terrace, and the payment of the October 23, 2025 bills list.

The work session involved public comments concerning speeding on Burhans Avenue, updates on Governor Murphy's bill #1699, and various quality-of-life issues such as repaired guardrails and tree grates. Governing body responses addressed investigating traffic control on Burhans Avenue and confirming the borough's handling of Delta 8 and Delta 9 issues. Key actions included the approval of minutes from August and September 2023 meetings, review of department head reports (including a police officer's accidental discharge), and committee reports covering PSE&G construction and road resurfacing. The session concluded with the second and final reading and adoption of three ordinances: Ordinance #8-8-2024 regarding Stormwater Control amendments, Ordinance #8-8-2024A amending handicap parking designations, and Bond Ordinance #8-8-2024B appropriating funds for a storage facility with public restrooms. Additionally, a consent agenda approved several resolutions, including approving a 50/50 raffle, appointing part-time dispatchers (crossing guards), settling a tax appeal, hiring a full-time DPW employee, and authorizing a tax reduction refund. The payment of bills for September 12, 2024, was also approved.

The meeting commenced with a flag salute, moment of silence, and confirmation of public meeting notice compliance. Certificates of recognition were presented for Italian Heritage Month and a Water Emergency Recognition Ceremony. Key actions included the approval of Resolutions #2025-178, appointing a part-time Tax Assessor, and Resolution #2025-182, appointing William McKinney to the MUA Board. During the public hearing, a resident invited attendees to a Halloween event on King Street. Committee reports covered updates on the renewal of the County Health Services Shared Service, discussion of the dais sound system and website revamp, and upcoming special events such as Veterans Day and holiday festivities. The Mayor's report emphasized gratitude for event organization efforts, requested active enforcement regarding garbage complaints by Code Enforcement, and raised concerns about MUA responsiveness during a recent crisis, necessitating an audit of water bills.

The reorganization meeting included administering the oath of office to newly elected council members. Key actions involved the election of the Council President, and the approval of several resolutions concerning appointments, including the Borough Administrator/Acting Municipal Clerk, Municipal Attorney, Council Seating Order, and designations for professional services RFPs. Council also adopted its Bylaws and confirmed department appointments across various roles such as JIF/Safety Commissioner, Chaplain, Physician, Zoning Officer, Emergency Management Coordinator, and Fire Department officials. Furthermore, several individuals were appointed to Boards, including the Board of Health, Library Board, Planning/Land Use Board, and the Manchester Utilities Authority. The meeting addressed unfinished business by hearing and adopting Ordinance #12-11-2025 regarding the amendment of Chapter 205 (Vehicles and Traffic) to address handicap parking. A consent agenda for January 2026 was approved, encompassing resolutions for council committees, official depositories, interest on delinquent taxes, official newspapers, fund authorizations, wage ordinances, petty cash allocations, vendor authorizations, participation in the DLA 1033 Program, a Public Works Manager agreement, temporary budget appropriations, minimum wage increase, towing licenses, and accepting a resignation.

The Work Session included public comments regarding the need to repair a guard rail, requested limitations on public session speaking time, and advocacy for limiting cannabis establishments to one. Governing body responses addressed scheduling a police department meeting, adherence to the Constitution across government levels, and confirmation that the Planning Board was not in favor of an additional dispensary. The Council approved several previous meeting minutes. Department reports were noted, including a discussion by Public Works regarding replacing an older sanitation truck. Committee reports covered completed road work, the upcoming bid for the Leonhard Drive project, reviewing DPW and crossing guard contracts, a successful Rabies Clinic, and scheduling upcoming special events like the Tree Lighting and Lights Parade. The Mayor congratulated two councilmembers on their victories and addressed safety cameras. The council heard communications regarding a Climate Vulnerability Assessment Grant. Unfinished business included the second reading and adoption of Ordinance #10-24-2024, which amends land use procedures concerning escrow fees for planning and adjustment board applications. New business involved introducing and advertising Ordinance #11-14-2024 concerning handicap parking. The Consent Agenda approved numerous resolutions, including authorizing tax credits/cancellations, approving purchases (Fire Chiefs' vehicle lights), appointing part-time crossing guards, accepting a firefighter application and a donation of a van, and approving 2024 budget appropriation transfers. Emergency appropriations were authorized for sanitation truck repairs and to cover increased special police salary and wages. A new resolution was added to approve the hiring of a part-time dispatcher. Finally, the council approved the November 14, 2024 bills list and held an executive session to discuss an open litigation item.