Stephen T. Boswell

The Mayor and Council discussed various community topics, including the upcoming youth sports seasons, a retirement announcement for the Superintendent of Public Works, and the implementation of a global hiring freeze due to budgetary challenges. Several presentations were held, and the 2026 Special Improvement District Budget was introduced. The council approved multiple ordinances, including those establishing salaries and wages for white and blue-collar employees. Other key actions included authorizing shared services agreements with neighboring municipalities, endorsing a Treatment Works Approval application, approving a change order for roadway resurfacing, and adopting the Bergen County Multi-Jurisdictional Hazard Mitigation Plan. Additionally, the meeting addressed tax appeal settlements, event permissions, and developer agreements, while hearing resident concerns regarding server security and construction safety.

The agenda includes the memorialization of approvals for site plans and residential developments, specifically for an auto repair facility, a place of worship, and a two-unit dwelling. The board will review applications for completeness regarding minor subdivisions and multi-unit dwelling projects. Additionally, there will be a vote on a motion to reconsider an addition and renovation project for a two-family dwelling. Public hearings are scheduled to address applications for two-unit dwellings, a townhome development project, and a request for the reapproval of a two-family dwelling.

The meeting included an executive session to discuss personnel and legal matters, including redevelopment projects, tax foreclosures, and settlements. General discussion items included a new appointment for the Advisory Committee for Individuals with Disabilities, rescinding a resignation from the Rent Leveling Board, and planning for the 2026 municipal budget and Business District Alliance budget. The council reviewed the 2025 audit and corrective action plan, authorized various street closures and permits, and approved plans for infrastructure, including roadway resurfacing, tax maps, and radio communication equipment shared services. Additionally, the council discussed tax refunds, veteran property tax exemptions, residential safety regarding hoarding, developer agreements, senior housing development, IT support for the Parking Authority, and health insurance agreements.

The board discussed and approved a resolution for the preliminary and final major site plan regarding a 4-unit townhouse development located at 1639 Kaufer Lane. Additionally, the board addressed the acceptance and completeness of a minor site plan for permanent banner signage at 69 Main Street, which was subsequently carried over to a future meeting date.

The meeting included a closed session to discuss personnel and legal matters, such as redevelopment plans, tax foreclosures, and litigation. During the open session, the council reviewed various items for future agenda placement, including a name change for a cannabis dispensary, the Route 9W bridge replacement project, tax appeal refunds, and the designation of bank depositories. Additional discussions covered the 2026 cash management plan, budget transfers, disabled veteran property tax exemptions, a grant application for park bike racks and shelters, a shared services agreement for radio communications, and the approval of various community events. A member of the public provided comments regarding rent leveling law and vacancy de-control.