Susan Fields

The meeting included the swearing-in of a new police officer and a public hearing regarding an ordinance for salary ranges and wages for township employees. The township manager provided updates on various projects, including the annual clean sweep day, equipment dedications, a playground reopening, and ongoing paving and utility infrastructure improvements. Additionally, the council approved a name change for a professional services vendor, awarded a paving contract, authorized a grant application for storm water pipe replacement, and amended a shared services agreement for fire inspection services.

The meeting included the approval of a person-to-person and place-to-place transfer of a liquor license, the approval of raffle applications for the Cedar Grove Elks Lodge, and a resolution to change the custodian of the Library Petty Cash Fund. Additionally, the council authorized the purchase of heads and grates for roadway resurfacing and awarded the 2026 Road Overlay Program contract. The meeting concluded with the approval of a bill resolution, a brief public comment session, and an executive session regarding contract negotiation and litigation.

The Council meeting involved a presentation to the local UNICO chapter and recognition of the Township Manager. Legislative actions included the adoption of ordinances amending codes related to sewer service charges and water consumption rates, as well as the introduction of an ordinance prohibiting structures within public rights-of-way. The Council authorized several resolutions, including approvals for various raffle applications, the Municipal Alliance Grant submission, adoption of provisions for retiree health benefits, a fireworks display permit, and a tax exemption for a disabled veteran. Contracts and agreements were approved for shared fire inspector services with the Township of Little Falls, third-party inspection services for a local development, and parking lot restoration. Officials provided updates on snow storm impacts, FEMA reimbursement efforts, and the status of affordable housing compliance.

The council meeting addressed several budgetary and infrastructure matters, including the adoption of the 2026 municipal budget, the 2026 solid waste collection district budget, and various capital ordinances for infrastructure improvements such as road reconstruction, utility plant upgrades, and water utility improvements. Additionally, the council authorized a change order for the community park lower playground project to address collapsed stormwater pipes and passed resolutions concerning estimated tax bills and a raffle application for the Alpine Learning Group Foundation. Various reports were provided regarding town projects, upcoming community events, and voter registration.

The council discussed and adopted several ordinances and resolutions related to affordable housing obligations, including the fourth round housing plan, multi-family affordable housing inclusionary overlay zoning, and development fees. The meeting also included the adoption of an Affordable Housing Administrative Agent Policies and Procedure Manual, an Affirmative Marketing Plan, Market-to-Affordable Program Guidelines, and an Affordability Assistance Policies and Procedures Manual. Additionally, the council adopted a resolution acknowledging the Planning Board's determination that the amended fair share housing plan is consistent with the municipal master plan.