Patricia R. Celardo

This document details amendments to the Borough of Fanwood's Round 4 Housing Element and Fair Share Plan, necessitated by a settlement agreement with the Fair Share Housing Center and the updated 2025 State Development and Redevelopment Plan. The plan addresses a 109-unit unmet need for Round 4, proposing an increase in the mandatory affordable housing set-aside for rental units in the Commercial Corridor Zone from 15% to 20% to provide realistic zoning for 28 affordable units. It outlines updated provisions for monitoring, design standards, and development fees to ensure ongoing compliance with state affordable housing regulations.

The meeting commenced with the reading of the Open Public Meetings Act statement and the Pledge of Allegiance. Key agenda items included the approval of the December 1, 2025, meeting minutes and opening the floor for public comments, which were restricted to agenda items only. The consent agenda involved adopting several resolutions (2025-12-211 through 2025-12-216) covering the authorization of claims, transfer of public safety funds, and agreements related to shared court services between the Borough of Fanwood and Garwood, including a contract with the Westfield Regional Health Department and awarding a contract for playground equipment at Forest Road Park. Committee reports highlighted ongoing discussions regarding the 2026 budget closing process. The Administration and Finance Committee provided updates on the newly passed shared court services agreement with Garwood. The Police Department report for November detailed significant activity, including 1,230 calls for service and 218 traffic summonses, alongside reminders about a new parking ordinance. The Fire Department reported on 222 calls for assistance in November and the successful execution of their annual Santa package delivery detail, which served over 450 homes. The First Aid Squad reported a 60% call answer rate for November. The Public Works report noted routine activities, leaf removal deadlines, and preparations for inclement weather, recognizing staff who worked extended hours during a recent storm. The Library reported on youth services events, Children's Book Week, and upcoming staff training. The Historic Preservation Committee discussed preparations for the AmRev 250 and plans for a Lego building project scheduled for March 21st at the high school. The Environmental Commission reported on an Eagle Scout project completing plantings at the nature center, leading to increased usage. Reports from the Seniors and Ministerium committees were also presented.

The meeting commenced with the reading of the Open Public Meetings Act compliance notices and the Pledge of Allegiance, which included a moment of silence for peace in the Middle East region. The council welcomed a new Business Administrator, Jesse Molman. Discussions included the first reading of an ordinance (2023-15-S) to change smoke detector inspection fees, and the first reading of an amendment and restated bond ordinance (O-2023-16-S) related to funding for a library and museum project, clarifying no increase in the bond amount. The council approved the payment of claims for October 2023 and adopted a set of consent agenda resolutions. Standing committee reports covered Administration and Finance, noting preliminary budget discussions; Public Safety, detailing the September 2023 police statistics (calls for service, traffic enforcement, training, and hosting a police and pumpkin event), and the Fire Department's September call summary (including a dryer fire and motor vehicle accidents). The Rescue Squad report highlighted its September activity, noting a reduced rate of insufficient crew calls, active recruitment efforts, and community involvement at various events. The Public Works report announced the start of the senior leaf raking program and mentioned an upcoming candlelight service for peace, as well as fundraising efforts for the Crop Walk benefiting local food pantries.

The regular scheduled meeting commenced with announcements regarding proper notice posting procedures. Key discussions included the annual tax sale report, noting that all seven properties were sold, resulting in 100% collection for sewer and tax. The council reviewed the 2022 Best Practices Summary Report, confirming 100% state aid maintenance, and discussed upcoming compliance ordinances, including one concerning anti-nepotism. Correspondence regarding employee permit parking for businesses on South Avenue was addressed. The council held public hearings and subsequently passed ordinances on their second reading for amending the Property Maintenance Code (to streamline violation procedures and update lien charge amounts) and amending salary and compensation chapters. A major action was the final passage of the financial agreement with Corono Square Urban Renewal LLC under a PILOT (Payment in Lieu of Taxes) agreement, which involves significant revenue increases for the borough compared to current tax payments, alongside public benefits like street frontage cleanup and the inclusion of 21 affordable housing units.

The meeting began with the reading of the official meeting notice compliance statement. A proclamation was presented recognizing the planning committee of the 17th annual Scotch Plains Fanwood Martin Luther King Jr. Day of Service for their dedicated organization of service projects. Key resolutions included authorizing a bond sale of approximately $10.7 million to consolidate and roll over short-term notes, funding various general improvements including the carriage house and new library projects. The Council also approved several consent agenda resolutions. During committee reports, updates were provided on the new 1874 coffee shop lease in South Avenue and the progress of Corano Square, which has applied for footing and foundation permits, while the construction status of Fabio's was noted to be impacted by winter weather. The Fire Department reported 27 calls for assistance in December 2025, totaling 306 emergency assistance calls for the year. The Rescue Squad reported 21 calls answered in December, with an average response time improvement. Public Works reported on ongoing activities including leaf cleanup completion and maintenance tasks.