call to order the meeting of the mayor and council the burrow of river edge at 705 Kind Road and via Zoom. I ask for a moment uh in a moment I ask for us to stand for a moment of silent uh reflection uh for all those who are
suffering uh from the um negative well the impacts of war especially those in Michigan and Colorado >> Virginia Michigan and Virginia uh let us keep in mind um those who are um have
been um victims of terrorists Council Mal Malari, will you lead us in the pledge? >> Yes. >> I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America and to the republic for which it stands, one nation
under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all. >> Okay. Statement of compliance with the open public meeting act. The open public meeting act. This meeting complies with the open public meeting act by notification via April 9th, 2026 and April 16, 2026. Sunshine notice
containing location date and time and access information to the town news and the record and by posting the same on the municipal bulletin board and the burough website and following notice with the municipal clerk. Madame clerk, roll call, please. >> Sure. Councilwoman Montasano Cowan is
absent with prior notice. Council President Consella >> here. >> Councilwoman Malari >> here. >> Councilman Glass >> here. >> Councilwoman Darwal >> here. >> Councilman Feffer >> here. >> Mayor Papalo >> here. Very good. Okay. Um just one order of business before we get to our
welldeserved uh athletes. Uh could I have a motion and second to approve the minutes of the mayor and council regular meeting of February 26, 2026? >> So moved. >> Second. All in favor please say I. >> Any opposed? Any abstensions? Hearing
none. We are uh unanimous. All right. So we have a a wonderful opportunity today to recognize uh our uh student athletes, our our resident athletes. And so I would call forward um uh hold make sure
I get everybody's name right. Um can I call forward Annie Maple? Mate or >> Mapes. Thank you. Ted Stein and Carla. Carla, what's your last name? >> Rodriguez. Very good. Will you guys three of you come forward, please? I'm
going to sweep around here best. Uh very good. Okay. So you have to hold the mic close. Uh so we have um really uh an outstanding volunteer coaching program in River Edge and vol outstanding program of student athletes
and we're very very proud of all of you and we want to recognize uh your achievements and so by the way this is being recorded on uh Zoom. Uh we will be putting it on the mayor's page. It's also on the town's YouTube page which is
the Burough River Edge. Correct. That's the title. So, um, so I'm going to start, uh, with, uh, coordinator Carla, and she's going to talk a little bit, uh, for the record and, uh, in praise and recognition of our programs.
>> Hi everyone. I'm Carla Rodriguez. I'm the director of operations on the board of the River Riverdale Blackhawks. Um, we are here today. We have two great teams that have won their flight. Um, so I' I'm so excited to be here and
recognize them today. And I love um for Annie and Ted to talk more about the teams. Thanks. I'm Annie Mapes, the coach of the U10 girls team. Um, this season their record was 9 and1. There were only five goals
scored against them. for standings purposes where only they count one of the times that you play an opponent. Their official divisional record was seven-0 with only one goal scored against them. They started this little group of girls as a team in the HF flight and after only five seasons as a
team, their incredible hard work has earned them a promotion to the A flight for the spring. Each and every player contributed to this accomplishment. They show incredible sportsmanship, poise, and hard work on and off the field. But most importantly, they know how to have
fun. >> Yes. >> Thank you. >> Thank you. Congrats. Um I know she's so prepared. So, uh um >> they were talking tonight. They didn't know. So, >> you probably wrote it down.
>> Yes. Um, so, uh, Ted Stein, I'm actually the coach along with, uh, Josh and Frank that are out there, uh, of the U15A team. Um, the team, which is pretty incredible. A lot of these kids I've had for a long time, but we went 10-0. Um,
similar to what you had said, we only had nine goals scored against us all year. Um, and you can think about it at at that flight or that age to only do to give up that few goals is pretty incredible. the commitment of the team. They're great kids. They're great to be
around. Um the commitment that they give every single day on the field and and they do other activities as well. They play for other teams. Um but the just to tell you is we are the first U15 team at the Aflight in Blackhawk history to ever
win our flight. So um and so it's actually pretty cool all the way around. So congrats to all of the kids and uh and hopefully they'll do the same in the spring. Uh so really athletes that deserve recognition. We're so thrilled. Can the
three of you move forward and stand right here? Okay. So I hopefully have divided them correctly. Uh this is my team. There you go. And this is your team. And what we're going to do is we're going to call them forward. When
you when I call you forward, we're going to go back and forth. As I call you forward, please come up. I'll shake your hand. You'll get your certificate from uh your coach and of course take the hand on the coordinator. Uh let me just read into the record what the uh
certificate says. Okay. So it says this I'm doing the girls first but we'll get to the boys too. Uh certificate of recognition. The mayor and council of the Burough River Edge are proud to present this certificate to and your name will be written there in recognition of the River Dell Blackhawks
who earned a promotion from Hflight to Aflight for the spring and of course for your successful wins. And then for uh the boys sim similar the mayor and council of the burough river edge are proud to present this certificate in your name in
recognition of the Riverdale Blackhawks for winning their fall 2025 flight division you 15 new boys northeast region US club soccer. So, um, so we're going to call them forward and what we're going to do is, uh, if you could hold the mic and stand in between two of
us and and then you're going to come this way. Okay? And then we're going to step back just a little bit. Walk in front of us and then behind us and that way everyone comes up and stays up. Okay? We good? Okay. So, here we go.
I just hold the mic close enough. So, Mariana Sanchez Gio song >> Harper Dugan >> Lucas LMA >> Helena Lopez Yes. >> Batu Kosan >> Maline Schwagger who couldn't who
couldn't join us tonight. Hadley Irving, >> Andrew Carbadella, >> Julia Davies, >> Dante Stramiello, >> Maline Giblin, Danielle Alipo, >> Kira Tiffalt, >> Evan Calderon,
Lauren Donnagy, >> James Melky, >> Rosie Mates, >> Joe Coyama, >> Tessa Pratt, Arda Kosen, >> Bosi Ficaris, >> Christian Gutello, >> she Okay. Rion Bovel.
>> Sorry, we got >> No worries. >> Wait, he's >> No, read the name any >> What's that? >> Never leave. Read the name. >> Oh, he's not here. >> Yeah, just read it. Roco Ranga. Mason Rner, >> Bar Stiello,
>> Benjamin Rcalo, Jack Crawford, Daniel Grim Seagal. Yeah, that's >> we're in a sec. >> Wait, these are both. >> Yes. Oh, I have one more that
Juliet D >> John Dugan. >> Thanks for turning. Appreciate it. Angelica Ruiz Cortez >> Frank Stramello. >> Frank, thanks for your kiss. >> One more. Sorry. >> Josh Rner.
Okay. So, can I arrange everybody? Can I have all the coaches in the back, the girls in the front, the boys in the middle by height? >> So, girls, I need a single line this way. Shoulder to shoulder. Shoulder to shoulder. I need girls here. >> I need girls over there. Boys, I need
you a little bit further back. with everybody. >> Okay. Picture with everybody first and then if we want to do just the girls with with their coaches and the just boys with their coaches. Sounds good. Yes. All right. So, let me get out of the way. Everybody big smiles and make sure that
you can be seen. So boys, temporarily move over to that wall with your coaches. Girls, stay exactly where you are. If the lady uh the girls coaches can stand in the middle behind them
and you can walk behind the de. Don't worry about it. It's nothing secret back there. All right, let's take a picture for uh all the parents of the girls. Big smiles. One more round of applause for the girls and their coaches and for the moms and
dads who got them there over and over again. The practices and games. We're great. Very proud of all of you on behalf of the council and myself. Well done. I hope to see you here next year. All right. All right, girls. If you can step out, we'll ask the boys to step
back in. Girls, come out this way. Girls, come out this way. Boys, back in that way. ads are coachable. >> They don't sound tall enough. All right. Now, boys, um, it's a little
bit unfair to your coaches, so uh, can I have the boys in the front squat a little bit? Just a little bit. Uh, guys, boys in Squat, squat, squat, squat. Not a lot. Squat down. Squat down. A little bit in the green shirt. Squat down a little bit. Okay. And I think everybody can be
seen now. Excellent. Thank you guys. Round of applause for the guys, the coaches and for mom and dad. adopt them to practices and games. And of course, grandmas and grandpas too might be uh in there and guardians and aunts and uncles.
>> Actually, every one of my kids Congratulations. to the moment. So, uh, what the public can know is right now we have, um, the girls and the boys black cloths team exiting. We're just giving them a moment before we move on to our next order of business.
Welcome. Thank all right. Um so one of the things that um we know is uh a huge international and national gift to citizens everywhere is the Americans Red Cross and
especially when um times of disaster but the the Red Cross also does work when we have smaller disasters uh like a houseire and stuff like that. So, we have called um forward to speak to us um
John Feliz uh who is the government operational lead for the Red Cross in our area. John is six years freeholder and longtime resident and council >> and and a councilman. Oh, I'm sorry I left that out. And how many years John account four try to pull the mic closer
to you when when you speak. Okay. Um and Andy Stone is the executive director of New Jersey. >> Northern >> Northern New Jersey. >> Northern New Jersey. >> Well, you know, >> my colleagues will be I can take the you know, >> Bergen County is the largest county in uh New Jersey. So, >> I'm very proud to represent.
>> Yes. Yes. And I know that you also I think uh Patterson County and >> Yep. So, >> I'm sorry I said Pastor I meant PC. >> Yep. Bergen, Pose, and also Hudson, Essex, Morris, Sussex, and Warren County. That's my responsibility. >> That's a big beat. That's a big B. Um,
and uh, the work you do is wonderful. I thought it was at John's suggestion, I I strongly agreed that it's good for the council and the public to know what resources are available in times of need and also to put a spotlight on um, local
officials as well as uh, statewide officials who are there for those who are in need. So guys, um, you have the floor. >> Thank you very much. Uh it is a pleasure for me to be here. Uh mayor, thank you for for inviting me. Council members, uh
hello. Uh what you do is a valuable service to your community. And uh I want to thank you as a resident of Riveridge for 33 years. So thank you very much. Um we have a slide deck. I don't know if that could be pulled up or not. If not,
>> it's a >> that's okay. >> Who's Can you pull up the agenda? >> I'm here. If not, that's >> You know what? I can do it. >> Okay. >> Um why don't you start and I'll split up. >> The the American Red Cross is the largest. >> When I come on, you're going to have to um you're going to have to move me into
uh if presenter. Okay. Go ahead. >> The Red American Red Cross, well, the International Red Cross and the American Red Cross is the largest volunteer organization in the world. Uh in North America, it's the Red Cross. Uh in
Muslim countries, it's the Red Crescent. And in Israel, it's uh called the Jewish the Jewish Star. Okay. Um we are chartered by the US Congress as one of the key second responders.
Um and in New Jersey, 96% of all the people involved with the Red Cross are volunteers like myself. Um, the Red Cross insignia is is is not a religious connotation, but it began in Switzerland and it's basically inverted
flag of Switzerland and that's what that cross signifies. Um, I've been with the Red Cross for about four years. I do multiple activities such as disaster action team where we go out when there's a fire a tree falls on a home small
could be one home uh or if it be multiple homes in many cases if there's an accident a car let's say >> second I'm uh should be in the chat move me into u one second >> okay
uh or just give me permission to present to pass. >> Okay. >> Go ahead, John. Okay. So, we have multiple facets of the Red Cross. Everyone kind of knows about the blood supply. In many cases, the Red Cross um
gets it donated to them. They have blood drives. They process it and then they um sell it to institutions and hospitals. Uh we have disaster services which I also am very involved with. Um that's disaster recovery operations. It could
be uh I've been to Florida twice. I've been in Mississippi for uh national disasters. Um we also provide canteening and food for larger events. Let's say if there's a multiple family uh unit that
needs support, we'll feed them. will provide them with assistance uh financial assistance. Oh, there you go. Okay. >> So, the information on this slide deck
kind of talks about what we do and um great. Thank you, Mayor. You want me to scroll down? >> We could scroll down. Okay. Our mission is to alleviate and prevent human suffering. Everything we do is for that mission. Whether it's putting air in the
tires for the the response vehicles or cleaning out the warehouse where we keep our supplies in when there's an emergency we have to reference. Um it's all about that and and I'm very honored to be a part of the Red Cross.
Andy, you want to just say a few words and introduce yourself? >> Yeah. So I I'm Andy Stone. I'm the executive director for Northern New Jersey. I just started in January. Um, you might know my colleague Sarah, who was previously in my role and she's now
in charge of disaster for the entire for the entire region of New Jersey. Uh, so John's boss, you know, telling him where to go. But I uh, yeah, so I'm new to the role. This is actually my first council meeting that I'm attending. So I'm pleased to be here. I really appreciate
everything that you do and and the fact that you're willing to talk to us and listen to our presentation about the uh resources that we have and as John said, 96% of our uh workforce here in New Jersey are volunteers and so I'm very happy to let John tell you all about
what we do. >> Excellent. Go ahead, John. >> Next slide, please. >> Sure. >> Okay. Uh the numbers speak for itself. Nearly 20,000 people are assisted by the American Cross daily. And the numbers,
whether it's CPR training or whether it's um uh we help with military, we have a very strong faction of the Red Cross service to the armed forces where we do a lot of work with um care kits and and um
assistance with like joint base down in South Jersey. I'm very involved with that as well. Also, people get deployed overseas and actually are stationed at a military base and for six or eight months at a time and they'll be that conduit between that that service member
and their family. Um, and all the events that happen on a daily or yearly basis, weather alerts. We have a an emergency app that I have on my phone that really gives you a very good update as far as emergency weather uh matters. And I
would highly recommend you download that. I think it's very effective. Uh and of course blood, you know, which is a big part of our mission is to provide a safe supply of blood to to our to our clients. Um can we have the next slide,
please? >> Sure. >> I wish I had that. Okay. We're there to provide. In fact, I was at a class this morning about providing compassion, letting them know you are not alone during the probably the worst time in
their lives. Their house just burned down. They just got flooded out of their house because of a storm. A tree falls on their house. These are people that have really lost everything. So what we do not just provide them with a donation
which everyone is entitled to if they can't live in their home to get them through a couple days and and one of the reasons why I want to speak to people in Bergen County is that you know we're very blessed. We have a lot of resources both personally in the community but you and your family members and your
residents are entitled to that gift from the Red Cross. So we go to a scene within two hours. We provide them with a blanket, with a hygiene kit, with snacks, um, and a gift, uh, a donation so they can get through even if they're
not staying in a hotel to get them through the next couple days. We also have spiritual care, mental health counseling, and also for um, healthwise, if you lose your glasses, we can get another pair for you. and we provide them with a package of information that
can get them help whether it be Catholic Charities, whether it be board of social services and we've we we tailor them this information to the particular county that they reside in. Okay? And then a caseworker follows up with that
client the next day. So we're also there to comfort them, to let them know they're not alone. So it's really important. So whether it's a disaster recovery operation, whether it be like a Sandy or in Mississippi a tornado or in Florida a hurricane or a tree falls on a
house or if there's a fire in River Edge, we're there within a very short period of time to assist. And then let's say the next day if no one lets us know, we can also respond to a call uh and try to assist that person in their time of
need. Next slide, please. over here. I got the slides. >> Okay. You know, our reputation is built on many many years of selfless service to this to the country, to our states, and
to our nation and to our communities. And um speaking from experience, the folks I volunteer with are amazing. They're philanthropic. They're humanitarians and they only want
one thing and that's to help people in their time of need and they come from all walks of life. So, um, we're very honored and it's about the legacy of the Red Cross I hold in the palm of my hands every time I interact with someone and I
take that with great seriousness. Next slide, please. >> Sure. And I just spoke about those small disasters and the big disasters, you know, like we've been kind of lucky, you know, the last couple years with weather, but
River Edge is known to flood and River, you know, and the local communities, we've we've been lucky ever since Sandy to speak of, right? Um we've we had the wildfires up in Ringwood last year and I was assisting them. I mean people literally we're driving down the street
and we're giving out like you know sandwiches and food and the firemen are get out get out the people the flames are right by the person's house so let people know that we're there to assist and we set up shelters uh we we'll set
up a um a u a center for people to to gather let's say if they can't go back to their house immediately. Um, and that's another thing we work with municipalities and counties to set up what's called memorandum of understanding. So, we'll say, "Hey, like
case in point, Anglewood. I met with the folks in Anglewood last week and they had some flooding about two years ago and we're going to work with them to set up a local shelter, do a survey, make sure it's handicap accessible, make sure that it has all the needs met for us to
set up a shelter so that in the event of an emergency, they can open up a shelter locally. So, um, a reception center is just a place where we can meet. It's just for a temporary period of time. So, next slide. Sure. Mayor,
in many cases when we go to an event, the people that are the most vulnerable need the most help. You know, the first day or two of a shelter, it could be me, right? My house, I can't live there anymore, but I have resources. I could pick up the phone. I have insurance. I
have a car. But but as time goes on, the folks that are not able to don't have a car or they don't have loved ones nearby or they don't have the ability, you know, they have uh um some
handicaps u whether it be psychological or emotional or physical. Those are the folks that need that that that safe harbor, that refuge in our shelters. And we provide that and I' I've seen it firsthand. So, um, and that's another
thing for us to be able to let people know in the community that if if you know somebody that's vulnerable, keep in touch with them. Let them know that we can assist and that because before the actual event happens, you
want to let them know that there's a community behind them. Okay? So, that we really look to to assist people that are most vulnerable uh during times of disaster. Next. Okay. The climate is changing. You know, there
there was tornadoes in Michigan, in Indiana. Um New Jersey never had tornadoes. They have tornadoes now. So, you know, in being prepared is so important. And that's another talk I can give at some point to your community, to your senior group. I'm doing something
at at St. Peters to your senior group about how to be prepared. making sure you have all the proper documentation together and so forth. Um, so the Red Cross has two, they have blue skies we prepare in and we activate in gray
skies. So we want to do our training. We want to make sure we have our volunteer base. We did a uh extensive uh shelter um activity a couple weeks ago where we opened up five shelters in North Jersey in two hours so we could be
prepared for that event. So we train, we prepare and then when the unforeseen happens uh we can activate and begin to provide services to the community. Next, please. >> Sure, John. Five more minutes. >> Yes. Okay. All right.
Okay. In in essence, the the the issue is is that we are here for you. We are here for every member of the community. We are here to educate. We are here to help you prepare in times of distress.
Each of you I gave an envelope to and it has information about our services. 1 800 Red Cross. Even if I mean Neil is here, my neighbor. I was going to call Neil in a second as soon as you uh wrapped up just if he had comments as our deputy >> OEM. He's fantastic. In fact, he knew my
dad very well. Um long story with that, but so we're here to help. So in the folders is the disaster program manager Nancy Francesk's number, but you have my number, Neil has my number. I deal with the county all the time. So Bruce has my
number as well or colleague or friend pickle ball colleagues. So, thank you. Anything else you want to add? >> All right, stay where you are. Neil, if you could come up for a few seconds and just uh >> um but you will be picked up on the we
hold on. >> John is very active in the Burton County OEM and attends every meeting up in MA and I'm there as well. So just for the public's sake, OEM stands for order uh
office of emergency management, >> right? >> Go ahead. Go ahead. >> And John is there and along with a lot of other people and he is always called on to make a presentation, any updates, he's there. And anytime we call him,
he's there. That's it. So um Neil, if you couldn't, I know I'm putting you on the spot. I didn't actually prepare you for this. Um, can you talk about how um the Red Cross has is has assisted River Edge in any of its disasters? If you can just
touch base on do you do you call them for for um how do they get to know that there's a disaster in River Edge? Usually they know by the the word gets out that there's an emergency in town, whether it be
flooding or a bad fire, and they're there or we just make a phone call to central. >> That's why I wanted to point out some well calls your boss and Loi. >> Well, there there's a d there's a 1-800 number. What happens that gets then brought down to a local duty officer.
that duty officer then okay assess the situation and then they reach out to leadership and then we're contacted to let us know okay what is the the breath and scope of the disaster is it a house fire is it a flood um so and anybody can
call the 800 >> no but I want to reassure the public that our OEM is is in contact with you guys that this is one of the services that their taxpayers dollars provide and that our OEM uh our our coordinator is uh Chief Sanders uh and our deputy
coordinator is uh Neil D Neil Carroll rather and uh and that uh that we're we're here for them and uh and you guys are here for them. >> Anything else you guys want to say? I I just want to say use our services. We're
here for all of you and for all of your residents and we hope it's never to be used but unfortunately it will be at some point. And the better prepared we are, the better the communication we have between the uh fire department, the OEMs in the
municipalities and the counties in the Red Cross, the better we'll be able to provide services to to everyone here. So, I want to thank you, mayor. I want to thank you council members for your service, mayor, for your service and leadership. >> Neil, we go way back. He knew my dad when he and uh
>> as a family. >> Yeah. Back in 93. So we go way back >> when I did a lot of legend slate of work down in Trenton. He was always there and always there for Riveridge. >> Yeah. Yeah. No, it was uh it's it's been a good uh he's a selfless selfless
servant of our community and also a good friend and uh I want to thank you all. Andy, you want to say anything? >> I I thank you. And I would say what John was saying about preparedness is almost as important um as the emergency
response. Obviously we we respond to every emergency that we hear about that we're asked to respond to, but we also do the home fire campaign where we go out and install smoke alarms. Uh I'm going to be in incor on uh April 18th doing that. Uh installing smoke alarms
in any house that needs one, no charge. their 10-year lithium ion battery smoke alarms. And you know, because while it's great that we can respond to fires and help out the community in that way, it's better if we don't respond because it
doesn't happen. And if you know, in uh in Asbury Park last year, we installed a smoke alarm. And just a couple of months later, there was a fire in one of the houses where we installed a smoke alarm. We have the body cam picture of the fire uh the fire department helping the uh
the the victim of the fire. And that person got out alive and you you can hear the smoke alarm ringing in the background. So any house that doesn't have a smoke alarm, we are we want to go all over New Jersey and install them. So >> outstanding. Yeah. irrespective of I've
been to really nice houses putting smoke alarms in. So, it's not like people that can't afford to buy. We'll put it in any home. So, you give us a call. We have a team I'm a part of as well and we'll put smoke alarms in in their home. So, just let people know. We're here to prevent
those really bad days that could could occur with a family. >> I think the work you guys do is great. your volunteers are um angels of mercy and we were glad that you came here so that we could provide for the council and for the public uh you know an understanding of the resources that you
guys represent and the life-saving um work that you do. So thank you. >> You're very welcome. Great meeting you all. >> Appreciate Okay. then >> okay so good in a moment we will open to
the public I just want to remind the public that anyone who would like to speak uh may offer comments uh the comments are limited to three minutes our burough attorney will keep the clock on that uh but if you uh if your three minutes are up and you want to talk some more just hang out till the end of the
meeting we always make ourselves available but the formal part of the meeting is a threeminut presentation for anyone who would like to make a comment Could I have a motion and second to make a uh to open to the public on on any item they'd like to speak on? >> So move. >> Second.
>> All in favor, please say I. >> I. >> Uh please come forward, state your name, your address, and you will have three three minutes as soon as you're done stating your name and address. >> Uh my name is Jotar Nangawar and I reside in sorry
>> my name is Jotan Nangawa. I reside on 337 Howland Avenue in River. It's been 4 years I've been resident of river edge. Uh good evening to you mayor and to all council members. I hope you remember me from last time we were with our dear friend Briti on Diwali proclamation.
>> Yes. >> Right. And then uh I'm here to just uh give a little speech in case you can uh give us account for our Indian-American community in the town. So I would like to
uh request the mayor and the council to look to grant us the permission to host just host a small diia lightning event in the borrow hall sometime in mid-occtober is when our main Diwali event is happening this year as we are here as we were here last year to
celebrate Diwali proclamation. This year we request you to take one more step ahead and we represent almost 200 plus Indian-American families who reside in River Edge and are part of Riverdale district. By having this opportunity, it
will raise confidence, harmony and respect for the existing governness body in the town and almost 70 towns in Bergen County host this event as part of their seasonal programs creating the sense of inclusivity and diversity. I on
behalf of our community members look forward to hear from you all on just one day to assign to celebrate our beloved festival with in River Borough Hall this year. >> Okay. >> Yeah, that's >> any time left. You have some time left
if you want to say something more. >> I would have my friend. Well, he gets three minutes too. So, that's all. That's all. I wanted to keep my small speech. >> All right. Thank you for coming. Thank you. Okay. All right, I'll make up for Jotna. Uh, >> name and address.
>> Yes, my name is Akil Chavla. I live at 325 Lexington Drive. Uh, good evening members of council and mayor. Uh, I've been a proud resident of River Edge for 6 years. Uh, I stand or sit before you today. Uh, not just as a neighbor, uh,
but as a naturalized citizen recently who chose this town and this country to be my forever home. From the day I arrived, I've felt the warmth of this community. Whether it's the support of my neighbors or the excellence at our schools, I've always felt included,
including my right feeling my children have uh in the fabric of this town and this state. Uh I'm deeply grateful to live live in such a place in such a town uh that values uh civic duty and neighborly care. Uh it is because I love
this town so much that I'm here to request a new tradition an annual delighting ceremony at the burough hall uh to celebrate Diwali beginning this year. Uh Diwali is known as the festival of lights. While it has its roots in India, its message is universal. Uh the
lighting of DIA, a small clay lamp signifies the triumph of light over darkness, knowledge over ignorance and hope over despair. I'm honored to have this opportunity to speak here tonight on behalf of many families of Indian origin in our burough and maybe
neighboring towns as well. We see ourselves uh in the beautiful tradition already established in the town such as the manora which stands proudly outside the burough hall during Hanuka. Uh seeing that light every year after year after year reminds us that river edge is
a place where every community's heritage is honored. Um we would love the opportunity to share Diwali's light with you. Uh this request is just uh isn't just for the residents of Indian origin. It's an invitation to every resident in
River Edge uh to celebrate the unity that is coming together uh as one burough. Prosperity uh which is wishing well for all our local businesses and um families and diversity showing our children that our differences is our
greatest strength. Um it's our heartful heartfelt request to further enrich the cultural tapestry of uh the place we call home. We want to share our sweets, our stories and our light with you all. I look forward to the possibility of
seeing a diia glow out alongside all our other cherished traditions uh this coming fall. I think Diwali falls uh somewhere around October early this year. Um, so thank you for your time, your service, uh, and for making me and
my family and other neighbors feel like we truly belong. Thank you. >> All right. Thank you. >> Okay. Is there anyone else who would like to come forward? Sure. Come on up. State your name and address and your three minutes will start as soon as you
finish uh telling us who you are and where you're from. >> We sit together. >> You can. >> Yeah. that we have the same uh issue that >> Sure. >> Yes. >> both of you need to give your name and your addresses.
>> Um I'm Mr. Benito Asunion. I'm I live in uh 45 Richard Court of uh Kingro. >> Mhm. I I moved to Riverheads from Pamos 2015 and I was here with uh different I
think the last mayor before you came and then uh that was 2015 now it's 2026 I still have the same issue that was not never even resolved by the boro so the issue is uh our our uh uh street
is uh a lot of people are parking there especially the people in um uh Oak restaurant in uh Oridel, the boundary of privates, they park their cars there at uh after after office hours until 12:00
or 1:00 in the morning. We have an uh we have an issue that happened twice already and um uh Dr. uh Pac will uh uh elaborate about the police report. My name is Young Pek. Uh my office is on
954 Kinder Connect Road. That's my club. Uh last Friday around 11:30 at night um uh car or truck um smashed into uh a
fence between my office and uh Ben's residence and it created a big damage. I have a picture. I don't know if you want can see but this is the picture I have. So this has
been the ongoing problem uh because the oak restaurant they have um lot lot of overflowing uh cars and they just park anywhere they can and we happen to be the closest parking lot of the
restaurant. So, um, you know, I wish there's something we can do about it. Um, whether it's our responsibility as an owner or is it, you know, as as a river edge town, will you be able to do something about it? Um, you know, that's that's that's one thing. And second
thing is it's been an ongoing problem ever since I moved in. But um people committing to New York parking their cars on the street and um you know I looked at the streets uh next to us and next to us uh two streets over. They
have this no parking sign and a sign that says no parking between 8:30 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. And I think that's a great idea. But why isn't that on every street? Why is that on certain street? That I don't understand. So if something
that can something like that can be done, I think it will greatly eliminate those commuters parking there all day long. And um those are two two things I want to talk to about also uh
uh the uh the sidewalk and the gutter of our street has been uh damaged by people who shop in the Ace Hardware. At one time I saw a backhole parking in front of my house and he messed up all the
gutter there and I was told by the uh by the uh uh wife of uh Lieutenant Manginti that we have to pay for it. I said how can I pay for that? I already paid for the sidewalk in Paramos. They pay for it but here it's river probably it's not
you know as Paramos uh we have to pay for it as a residence there. So uh I have a recommendation since uh 10 years ago that uh uh we are not against the people who works in
riverage to park there but after uh uh office hours they they have they have not to park there because it's ruining uh the sleep of uh people who who can hear them. They're laughing and then you know they're talking. That's why when
when that happens that uh accident it's a hit and run. I came out like uh 12:00 in the morning and Dr. Pak is uh not there because he don't live there you know his office is there but uh I called the rivers police and they came and then
they did the police report. So why do we need to suffer for these people who works in uh Oak restaurant who who is Oridel they have a lot of parking in Oridel in front of the restaurant. Why do they need to park in our street which is river you know so uh I hope they can
put a sign there that no parking after office hours. So that's all. Yeah. >> Okay. You have a between you two of you got six minutes. So you have another minute if you wish to say some something else. uh every time that uh something happens
there we have to pay for it and like me I'm a retired uh you know person already and money is really tight and you know but I have to pay for that and and all right um when we close to the public
uh we'll address some of what you've said and uh of course when the meeting is over if you want to chat with any of us we hang out too but your time is approximately up. >> Yes. So, uh, let's see if there's anybody else who wants to speak and then we'll close to the public. >> Yeah. Thank you very much for hearing our case.
>> Anyone else would like to speak to the council or in public? Anyone remote? No hands up. Could I have a motion and second to close to the public? >> Second. >> All in favor, please say I.
>> I. Okay. So, uh, because those who came first have already left, I'm going to deal with the second issue first. Um, so this is an issue uh that would need to go before the traffic and safety. It doesn't come to the council at this point. Uh, we need the police to weigh in. So, uh, what I would strongly
recommend and if you need some help when the meeting's over, our our burough uh, clerk or our burough administrator can give you the contact information in the next meeting of the traffic safety. Traffic safety is a citizens committee that is uh, essentially run by the
police department. So, uh, all questions about, uh, control of the streets, uh, go through the police department and then come to the council. Would that be correct, Mr. Stay, our burough attorney? The next meeting is March 31st, and it's
a remote meeting, so it's really easy to come to. Uh, you would just, uh, go to the website and you'd sign on. But before then, I strongly recommend that you send an email to um Sergeant D. Sergeant Diamond and CCing Chief Walker.
Um you can find their email addresses on the website, but you can also get them from our clerk or an administrator uh before you leave. Okay? and um then it will become a topic and then the police will review it and then the and they'll make recommendations and those
recommendations the council would then consider. Um so let's go to the first issue. Mr. Shane, would you speak to uh the question of doing a Dewali S ceremony in Burrow Hall based on the memo that we we've had about about this
issue in the past? >> Certainly, mayor. So um we have the bureau has a uh or this council has adopted a policy of um there that not to have any celebration that is related to
a religious event um at Burough Hall and everything has to be secular. Um and that's and that's because of the case law from the Supreme Court of the United States that says if you do one for one group you have to do it for every group. uh and I have made the uh legal
recommendation to this governing body that um if you open it up that's a policy decision you have to open it up to everybody so and that means that anybody who comes in with a recognized religion has a right to have an event at Burough Hall and the council had made uh
the decision pursuant to the law to not do that as a policy. Um so therefore um again I'm not as versed in Diwali. I don't want to sit up here and say that I'm any kind of an expert on Diwali. Um but my understanding is that it is it is a religious event. Um and therefore um
it would fall within that uh um >> yes >> that procription that the council has imposed on religious events and that there's nothing at Burl Hall that that is religious. >> Yes. >> Um any member of council wish to offer a
comment? >> All right then let's move on. Thank you. Uh Mr. >> I just clarification. >> Sure. So you the Supreme Court says if you open up to one, you have to open up to all. I'm I'm just wondering and not
to put you on the spot here, but um so my understanding is that doesn't mean you can't do it. You just have to be open to all religious groups that want to have some kind of ceremony at Burough Hall. And then I guess the question is
what defines a religious group? Is there a specific set of criteria? I mean, I could form my own religious group and say, I want to do a ceremony, or is it something more formal that can help the town understand who can have a ceremony
and who cannot? Well, there that those are great questions and I and I can answer most of them. Um, the the um the the question of of can you do it, the answer is yes. That's a policy decision by the council to decide whether or not
they want to allow it. The reason why generally most municipalities don't allow that um is because it exposes the town to the potential for litigation if for some for some reason some person does come forward as you indicated
councilman with with a religion that is not recognized in in into the eyes of whatever that governing body is. In other words, the law recognizes and I can say this with respect to religious discrimination and that area I know a lot about uh in terms of my my other practice as an employment lawyer. Um
there are recognized religions, right? You know, you have Christianity, Hinduism, Buddhism, uh um Islam, uh Judaism. Those are all recognized religions. There are others beyond that like Rostapharianism is considered a recognized religion for I had that trial about it. That's why I I I know that for
a fact. But there are a multitude of different recognized religions. If someone was to come forward with you know the religion of Bruce uh you know then and and and and there's a case that talks about that like you know like there the individual person creating the religion. I believe there was a case
about that that uh there there are some parameters in terms of understanding that that you know that it's in existence and it wasn't just made up for the purpose of doing this. Um, so, uh, you know, there's a way to do some due diligence, I think, on that and and make a learned decision, I would say, in
terms of whether it's recognized or not recognized there, but I don't know that there's a case law that has an actual list of criteria. >> Okay. Thank you, >> Mr. Shinadian. Just for my knowledge, uh, the public uh, comment was uh, mentioning the manora as isn't that part
of uh, Judaism and is that not a religious symbol? Just for my knowledge, I'm >> I I'm not Jewish and so I'm not I can't speak to Judaism um uh with authority. My understanding was that the manora was actually not a religious symbol that it's a celebration of the victory at
where the lights stayed on for nine nights uh and with when they had like a tiny bit of oil. I mean I again that's my that's my best that's my best recollection of of >> but the qu but the issue is that the Supreme Court has recognized the manura and the cris and how they treat treat
stick to that >> correct so so and the mayor is making a good point that that that was discussed in the memo that we shared that the the manora and the the holiday tree have been declared as sort of a universal symbols of of happiness or festival or
or or of uh as opposed to um you know that are recognized beyond their individual religions. >> Yeah. So for instance, you wouldn't a cross with a purple shroud is a very Catholic Lenton thing, but we wouldn't we wouldn't do that in River Edge. And
there are other symbols that are clearly religious in its nature. But the bottom line is not whether they're clearly religious or not. The bottom line is has the Supreme Court recognized them as as secular and does this council wish to change its policy? And if the council
wishes to change its policy, then the council has to understand that it opens itself up to any request. And when it turns down a request, then they are they're spending taxpayers dollars defending uh a refusal of a request that may not
be mainstream. And so in the past, those councils can change this. It really only requires four votes. Uh the council would have to say that we feel that we would we want to open ourselves up to any request recognizing that if we if we
deny a request from something that may not be considered mainline, we would then, you know, be incurring a cost to the people of River Edge to defend that request. And but it's if if the council wishes to do something like that, the council can
consider it at a future council meeting. >> I have one last question. Sure. >> In over the past, let's say 3 to 5 years, just picking a random period of time, have we had groups make such requests other than Diwali?
>> Sure. We've had Muslims group make requests for the uh >> Ramadan crescent. >> The crescent star. the crescent and the star >> and what uh but the the period of three to five is is is of course arbitrary
which is fine but we have we have been consistent with this policy for at least the 15 years I've been on the council. So I don't I don't know if there had been more request or would have been requests if we hadn't been consistent
about this policy. Um, so, you know, I I couldn't speak to that, but the council certainly wishes to take it up at a future council meeting. Um, it could do so. Um, when we get to new business, if uh if somebody would like for us to raise this issue, then we would need a
motion and a second and the majority of the council would have to say yes, we want to enter into debate about this. And then we would task our our uh BA uh not BA um our burough well yeah burough administrator with burough attorney rather uh burough attorney with
preparing a memo uh for the for the for the criteria that we would be interpreting and and discussing this and and the guardrails for what we uh what we would and would not be under what our authority is within that and and it
would be discussed at a future meeting. Mayor, may I suggest if possible either myself or Miss Apertella, she has it handy, can resend the memo, the original memo to the council because I know M council Feffer has was new to the council, so why not? >> Yeah. No, no, that's that's a very good
thing. >> Even I'm not aware of that memo. So, thank you. >> Sure. Okay. I I believe Okay. Yeah. >> I think >> Yes, it's okay. >> Okay. >> Well, you can we can always send it again. >> Yeah, >> absolutely. Uh, any other member of council wish to offer a comment?
Okay. Um, we've already closed the public. Could I have a motion and second after I read into the record uh approve the termination of Joseph Scott Taro Labor and Department of Public Works effective February 26, 2026.
>> So move. >> Second. >> All in favor please say I. >> I. >> Any opposed? Any abstensions? Hearing none. It is unanimous. We have monthly reports. We have environmental protection commission and green team January report tax collector and uh
report of the February and library board of trustees of the third. Um we are going to in a minute be moving several ordinances. I would like to call Mr. Baron forward. Uh Mr. Baron's going to
speak to um some of those ordinances. Um actually Mr. Bearing it's the second reading. So, just stay there. We are. >> Yeah. >> Um, we're going to move the first reading uh ordinance. Okay. Uh, after I read into the record, can I have one
member of council uh move and second and then of course we'll have uh an explanation to the public of what we're trying to achieve here and then we will have a vote. A motion that the following ordinance be introduced and passed on the first reading and setting March 26,
2026 at 7 PM or as soon thereafter as the matter can be heard is the date and time in the council chambers as the place in Zoom as the virtual platform for uh hearing on said ordinance. Ordinance 26-06, an ordinance to fix the salary, wages, and compensation of the
officers and employees of the Burough of River Edge in the county of Bergen and the state of New Jersey for the year 2026. Can I have a motion and second to move it to the floor? >> So move second. >> It is now on on the floor. Could our our
administrator please explain to the public what we hope to achieve with this uh ordinance on its first reading? >> Sure. Uh, ordinance 26-06 creates the salary range for the dual title of records clerk/ police department records custodian.
>> Okay. Is there uh any member of council who wishes to debate or to ask a question or make a comment before we vote on the ordinance? Seeing none, Madame Clerk, roll call. >> Council President Canella,
>> yes. Councilwoman Malari, >> yes. Councilman Glass, >> yes. >> Councilwoman Darwal, >> yes. Councilman Feffer, >> yes. >> Okay. Uh I'm going to move all three ordinances and uh are all three connected to
>> No. >> No. That's right. So, I'm not going to call any of them. Yeah. Mr. Bearing, you will be speaking to ordinance uh let me see uh 2605 and 2604. Um, so if you could, uh, these are, uh,
these are amending, uh, our zoning, uh, and, uh, they're connected to affordable housing. Uh, the public should know that we are obligated to do this by state statute. That was passed, uh, I think early >> March 2024. >> 2024. >> Correct. >> Mr. Barry, uh, would you please give
your name and state your role in the burrow? >> Sure. Good evening, mayor and council, members of the public. My name is Tom Barren. I am a planner with the firm Burgess Associates. We assist the burrow as its uh planning consultant, including affordable housing compliance matters.
Um, as the mayor mentioned, the ordinances being considered this evening are uh part of the burrow's u compliance with the state's affordable housing requirements. We are near the end of the final phase or we're in the final phase rather of the uh what's known as the
fourth round of the municipal affordable housing uh compliance process whereby the state of New Jersey amended the fair housing act in March 2024 essentially creating a new regulatory framework um and initiating essentially the fourth round which is for the period of June
2025 to uh July 2035. So in that legislation, meaning the amendments to the fair housing act, the state created a methodology for assigning municipal uh affordable housing obligations in the form of a number. So a certain number of units and they also included new
regulations uh for how municipalities could satisfy that number. Um the legislation included several deadlines. The first being that the Department of Community Affairs, uh, an agency of the state, had to conduct this initial calculation where they determined that
the state, uh, had to produce 85,000 new affordable units, um, statewide. That number trickled down to a number of housing regions and that regional number trickled down to individual uh, municipal obligations um, such as the one assigned to River Edge. uh River
Edge and all municipalities then had to confirm that number uh by January 31st of 2025. Um all towns then had to adopt a housing plan or h housing element and fair share plan by June 30th of last year which River Edge did um which
demonstrated how that plan um would satisfy the state's requirements. The number again given by the state and the plan to address that number. Um there was then what was known as a challenge phase where any interested party could challenge a municipal plan. Um the
burrow did receive one challenge um to its plan from fair share housing center who was the state's affordable housing advocate. Uh it should be noted that the burrow was not singled out but that fair share objected to over 400 municipalities. Um so the burrow uh went worked through mediation with that
entity and was able to resolve ma uh those matters and u culminating in a mediation agreement between the burrow and um fair share housing center which included certain terms and that brings us to this next deadline statutory deadline of March 15th uh whereby
municipalities must must uh adopt all implementing ordinances that implement the terms of its housing plan that again satisfies that state obligation. as well as terms from uh in this case the burrow's mediation agreement with fair share housing center. So pertaining
to those two specific ordinances, I will begin with ordinance number 26-04. As the man as the mayor uh alluded to, this ordinance amends the burrow's existing uh zoning ordinance in several ways. One, it amends three existing uh
zones that uh uh are already regulated in the burough code. And it also creates uh two overlay zones and I'll explain what these mean in uh in detail in just a moment. So uh the first ordinance change that's incorporated in this uh zoning ordinance
has to do with an amendment to the burrow's existing new bridge landing station redevelopment area. That is the property that surrounds the new bridge landing train station on both sides of the tracks owned in part by New Jersey Transit and the Burrow of River Edge. Um
the only change being made to that redevelopment plan which establishes how that property can be used and developed um is simply an increase to the residential density that's permitted there. Um so again, no other changes to that zoning or redevelopment plan, but
simply an increase um in density to meet the state's requirement as well as the burrow's uh mediation agreement with Fair Share Housing Center. The next zoning change pertains to um an amendment to the existing affordable housing one overlay zone which
encompasses property on Newbridge Road including um property that's developed with the an existing BP gas station golf simulator and plant retail store. Um again this is zoning that's already in place. Um and the only modification to that zoning is an increase in density. I
should note um with respect to terminology what an overlay zone means is that it becomes an additional uh development framework that when and if that property were to be developed uh with residential development it would have to adhere to those standards. It does not remove the existing zoning
which allows those uses uh to continue to be there including the gas station golf simulator facility um as well as the the retail plant store. And I should note that there are no active development proposals, but that the burrow is responsible for creating zoning that could that creates the
opportunity for the development of affordable housing. So again, no active development proposals. There's just this additional zoning that's in place um in accordance with the state requirements. U moving on to the third zoning change uh pertains to the existing multifamily
and conditional senior use district. Again, this is an existing um conditional zone that was created in 2009. It's basically on the east side of Kinder Kumac Road uh between Howland and uh reservoir. Um it already allows for
multif family development on assemblages of essentially 2 acres. Uh the underlying residential zoning, single family zoning will remain in place. So it has no absolutely no impact on the the dwellings that exist there and the manner in which those properties could be developed. for single family housing.
Again, this just uh creates that option for affordable housing when and if um a developer wanted to pursue that. The only modification to this ordinance um pertains to the affordable set aside, meaning that uh again, if that type of housing were to occur, instead of 15% of
the units being affordable, they'd be increased to 20%. So, that's the only change there. again. So, zoning that's in place since 2009, the only change that that's happening is an increase in the affordable set aside from actually it's from 10% to 20%. And 20% being
effectively the new state standard. The fourth zoning change is u the creation of a new affordable housing to overlay zone. Again, an overlay zone being a a second development option where the underlying zoning is in place. So, in this case, there is a a C1 zone which
permits a variety of commercial or non-residential uses that will remain in place. Um, this property is uh located at the south end of town with frontage on both Route 4 and Johnson Avenue with a uh a variety of industrial uses as
well as a retail building. Um through the through the mediation process, it was discussed that this presented a unique opportunity for redevelopment in the burrow. Hence the uh creation of this new overlay zone, this new zoning option u which would allow for multif
family development of the property. Finally, we have the creation of a new uh affordable housing 3 overlay zone as it's being called. This is at the north end of the burrow on the west side of Kinder Kamak Road which occupies uh essentially the Riverdale filling station and adjacent Verizon property.
Um similar to the prior overlay zone, the existing commercial zoning would remain in place and this would create the option whereby if a developer meets certain conditions, they could develop the property with a certain amount of either multifamily housing or uh mixeduse housing whereby there would be
commercial development on the first floor and multif family development on the second floor. I'll note that the maximum permitted height in this overlay zone adheres to uh the existing zoning in that area. So um it would not exceed what's already allowed there and again
just creates this second um option u again for the potential creation of affordable housing where there is no current development proposal. U and then finally um well actually that that's it for this ordinance mayor. So that that covers the zoning changes u with regard
to sight specific amendments to the zoning. And so that's 2604. Any comment on 2605? >> So yes, if if we'd like to go on to 2605. So 2605 uh pertains to general affordable housing regulations. Um this ordinance specifically follows a state
model ordinance um which regulates a number of things. Um one, it regulates uh any new affordable housing that were to be developed in the burrow, whether it's in these the zones I had just mentioned or anywhere else. There are certain state standards that all affordable housing must adhere to, including uh phasing, uh the number of
bedrooms, income requirements, eligibility, enforcement fees, etc. Again, these are just general requirements that every municipality must follow, but they have to be incorporated into the local code. This ordinance simply um repeals and replaces the burrow's existing affordable h
housing regulations. So where where the burrow adopted a similar ordinance in the prior round in the third round um they are repealing and replacing those regulations consistent with the the new state regulations. So again just to be compliant from a uh a state level um uh
we've uh recommended the bureau adopt this ordinance. And finally what this ordinance also includes is what what's called an update to the mandatory set aside. So, as I mentioned earlier, um any any new development in town um that has an affordable housing requirement,
there's what's called a set aside, a certain percentage of units that have to be affordable. Um where the standard used to be 15% for rental projects sort of across we've experienced across the board that set aside increased to essentially 20%. So, um, again, there
are no active development plans, but when and if any project in River Edge that has five residential units or more must provide an affordable housing set aside now of at least 20% where the old standard had been 15%. And then finally, this ordinance also incorporates the
burrow's development fee regulations which pertain to the collection of both residential and non-residential development fees. This is something the bureau already has in place. It is also a state mandate. Um, so this simply carries forward the bureau's existing
regulations. Um, these fees are intended to support the bureau's municipal affordable housing trust fund and that pool of money um is only permitted to be used for affordable housing activity. And so again, this is based on state law. This is a municipal requirement.
Um, that's an overview of that ordinance. And I would just offer that that the purpose of compliance and adhering to this final deadline is that the burrow ma remains in good standing with respect to uh affordable housing compliance. And why that matters is because the burrow gets to retain what's
known as its immunity from uh what's called builder's remedy lawsuits, which means that if you are not in compliance, a developer can come and sue the town with a builder's remedy lawsuit. um essentially pick a site at will uh and make a proposal that is generally uh
more intense than would otherwise be permitted or accepted in in the municipality. Um so that they can produce some number of affordable units where the town doesn't have a plan to do so. U and this would prevent that sort of action uh which enables the burrow to
maintain maximum control of its zoning which means it controls how and where development can occur. Um, and again, this would be for the fourth round, the duration of the fourth round up until 2035. >> Excellent. >> Excuse me. >> Uh, any member of council wish to ask a question of Mr. Barrett?
>> I have a question there. >> Go ahead. >> Um, >> you just turned it off. >> There you go. >> There we go. Thank you, Mr. Bar. A comprehensive download. Um, so, um, I just want it's really
anformational request. Sure. >> Um where within our um regulatory framework would parking regulations come into effect
um with respect to a development and parking requirements. >> Would that be in accordance with the use based on our existing code? Okay. So >> well let me explain that. I I mean to not Yeah. So it's it's uh
>> zoning requirements. >> So um >> we have not provided uh specific parking standards to these zones. So the the fault answer is that yes, it would default to the what the code currently requires for any type of housing. >> The caveat to that is that the state's residential parking requirements
supersede all municipal requirements. So essentially the state has certain residential standards um that you cannot require more than what the state requires. generally defaults to about two spaces per unit is kind of the state standard for multif family development when you average things out. It's based
on bedrooms frankly but >> so yeah because we want to avoid you know >> the difficulties that we've >> so tonight and that we've encountered I think you know borrow to some extent >> so >> that's just something to keep in mind I
think as these things move forward and >> um I find that the um the newer development on Kinder Smack Road which is actually south of Reservoir >> um >> I you know It's not between >> you're you're right. You're right. >> Um Okay.
>> Has adequate parking, keeps cars off the street, which is a good thing and I hope that we can um make sure that happens with any new development >> and we would expect that and that I think brings an important point as far as process goes. So this is just really the beginning of the process and again we're only talking about zoning. It
creates the opportunity such that a developer could potentially take advantage of that zoning and build a site in accordance with what that zoning prescribes. they would still have to um go through the site plan process with the landport. So, and that's a public process where surrounding property
owners get noticed. We have a code that again if we preserve our immunity, we can retain control over and that developer, that theoretical developer would have to adhere to the code. >> Very good. Thank you very much, >> Councilman Feffer. And then Councilwoman Darling. >> Thank you. Good evening, Mr. Barren.
Nice to see you. >> Likewise. >> Um I support the ordinances. So, so I my question should not be taken as a hostile question. >> Uh just curiosity. >> Okay. >> Um in situations where there are already existing
>> operating businesses on a site such as the BP gas station for example >> um developer comes in identifies that site for affordable housing and wants to develop affordable housing on that site. Do they have the right to simply I mean
what happens what happens to the business on that site? That's what I'm at. >> Well, that that's entirely a private transaction. So there's no there's no element of eminent domain. No, nobody. So again, through this process, there's no removal of property rights. If anything, it becomes additional property rights and whoever owns and operates
that property would be able to maintain whatever control and rights they have today. And um the point is to create a zoning incentive such that it could become lucrative enough to take advantage of that. But again, that doesn't mean any of them are moving tomorrow.
>> Got it. Thank you, Councilwoman Doral. >> Hello. Thank you. >> Good evening. >> Um the regarding one of the housing uh overlay zone 3 which mentions Summit Avenue. So the residential uh it's a it's a it's a tightly packed residential area. Yeah.
>> And u how would the residents u I know we would you know you would send letters, notices, whatever. How would the residents feel about their property value and um having to have a multif family? I'm going to stop that because it's not appropriate to ask our
professionals to determine how uh residents may or may not feel. It's not a fair question of of our professionals. Um so Tom, you don't need to answer that and I would prefer you didn't because we don't want any of our professionals ever to speculate on how the public may or
may not feel about anything. But Councilwoman, if you have another question, feel free to do that. Another one is >> or if you want to rephrase that question. So it doesn't require our professionals to be make a subjective judgment about the public. >> So would the I'm going to rephrase it
first. Uh would the public uh be be given enough notice about that this is going to happen? >> Yes. So, so first and foremost being very familiar with the borrowed I mean they were those properties that abut this site were considered at the beginning of the process and I'll note
that where they exist on Summit Avenue there's a significant grade change so that's why I mentioned that the height of what the zone already allows wouldn't be any taller than what could be developed there and I think that's significant um because again it wouldn't exceed the development potential that the property already allows really just
talking about a use change in this case um as far as impacts I would state that given the existing property conditions, whatever might be would be would be an improvement, frankly, uh due to some we'll call deferred maintenance to be nice. Um so I I think from that perspective, you could look to an upside
potentially as far as again improvements to those properties. And finally, when we talk about affordable housing, these aren't um you know, 100% affordable housing projects. We're talking about a mix of market rate, you know, nice nice types of housing as well as uh what are deemed to be affordable units, which are also nice, frankly. they have amenities
and they they they do require income requirements and certain things like that. So um I I would expect that impacts would be limited and if anything a net benefit for those residents >> who who are considered in this process. >> The next one is you there is mention of new bridge landing uh station
redevelopment area. >> Uh can you just for my knowledge where exactly is that? >> So >> well I could explain. So, River Edge has two train stations that the that's the train station at the south end of town.
>> It's the it's this the train station at the south end of town in the total wine area. So, um if you if you think about where that train station is, even though there's not a train station building, there's kind of a platform. There's property on both sides of the tracks, uh which are really surface parking lots. Again, some of which is owned by NJ
Transit, some of which is owned by the burrow. So it's it's both sides of the tracks, those sort of triangular irregular shapes that are part of that area. So uh again, this creates a zoning framework so that if that property were ever to be developed and and it would be in in partnership with NJ Transit would
be the hope and and intention um that it would have to adhere to this development framework. >> Thank you. >> Cool. >> Thank you. >> Anybody else? >> Okay. Um Mr. Bearing, I just want to uh emphasize or underline a few things. First, the town is not in any way at
this time uh building or part of a building program. This is simply a state requirement to create opportunities for private businesses if they wish to develop
according to state statute. and that this is a program that uh has was created through a New Jersey state supreme court decision some >> 50 years ago. >> 50 years ago. >> Yes. and that um we have but two options
to um to uh participate in the state program and protect the town from predatory development or not to protect the town and open us to what I would call or characterize as predatory development which means a developer who
comes and ask for a builder's remedy that could uh completely eviscerate our zoning and have very large apartment buildings built right next to residential homes that never existed before. >> Correct. Lots of unknown impacts and extensive litigation. This would prevent
those things. >> Um any uh so um so now what I'd like for us to do is uh we're going to open all three ordinances even 2603 to the public and then of course we'll have a separate vote for each of them. So uh I'm going
to read all three of them into the record. Um, so and then could I have a member of council move and second opening to the public only? Okay. The following ordinance publish following ordinances published here within were first read by title only on February 26,
2020. Tom, thank you. >> Oh, good. >> Uh, and posted on the bulletin board outside the clerk's office. Ordinance 2603, an ordinance to amend chapter 206 to the revised general ordinance of the Burough River Edge entitled these.
Ordinance 2604, an ordinance of the Burrow of River Edge, Bergen County, New Jersey, amending chapter 416, zoning of the Burough of River Edge to address the burough's affordable housing obligation by creating a new overlay zones for
blocks 418 uh 1418, lots 2, 3, 3.01, and 4, and block 203, lots 2, 2.01, 013 and 4 toit to permit inclusionary multifamily development and amend the existing AH1
overlay zone multif family and senior citizen housing uh conditional use uh district and the new bridge landing station redevelopment plan in accordance with the burough's housing element and fair share plan ordinance 2605 an ordinance of the burrow of river edge
Burton County New Jersey repealing and replacing in its entirety Chapter 50 affordable housing of the burough code consistent with the state amended affordable housing regulations. Could I have a motion and second to open to the public on all three ordinances?
>> So move. >> Second. >> All in favor, please say I. >> I. >> All right. Is there anyone remotely? Please raise your hand if you'd like to speak or ask a question. Anyone in chambers?
Seeing none, I u move I ask for a motion and second to close the public on all three ordinances. So move >> second. >> All in favor, please say I. >> I. >> Okay. Um now, um madame administrator, would you please for the public's benefit explain what the council is
attempting to achieve for 2603 through 2605? >> Sure. Uh 2603 codifies the fees for the annual pickle ball memberships, specifies the designated courts for tennis and pickle ball, and includes a $10 discount when registering for both
memberships at the same time. And 2604 implements the settlement agreement fair share housing to comply with the state's affordable housing regulations. Two new overlay zones are created. The minimum affordable housing set aside increases in one existing overlay zone and the
maximum gross density is increased for two other existing overlay zones. And 26-05 replaces the current affordable housing regulations chapter that currently exists in the burough code to comply with current state affordable housing regulations.
>> All right. Uh we are open for debate. Is there any debate on 2603 comment inquiry? 2604 debate, comment or inquiry. 2605 debate, comment or inquiry.
Okay. Madame clerk, would you please call the role? U could I have a motion and second to adopt 2603? >> So move. >> Second. Um, Madame Clerk, >> Council President Canella, >> yes. >> Councilwoman Malari,
>> yes. >> Councilman Glass, >> yes. >> Councilwoman Dario, >> yes. >> Councilman Feffer, >> yes. >> Uh, Madame Clerk, could I Oh, first, could I have a motion second to uh for ordinance 2604, adoption? >> So move.
>> Second. >> Madame Clerk, please call the role. >> Sure. Council President Canella, >> yes. Councilwoman Malari, >> yes. >> Councilman Glass, >> yes. >> Councilwoman Darwal, >> yes. >> Councilman Feffford, >> yes. >> Madam, uh, could I have a motion second
for adoption for ordinance 2605? >> So moved. >> Second. >> Madame Clerk, call the role. >> Sure. Council President Canella, >> yes. >> Councilwoman Maleri, >> yes. >> Councilman Glass, >> yes. >> Councilwoman Darwal, >> yes. >> Councilman Feffer,
>> yes. Okay, we move to resolutions. We always read into the record the last resolution even though we're moving all of them. But I believe council president you want to read into the record a additional resolution. >> No pronounce it. >> No. Okay. Um
>> wait I'm sorry the Yes, you're right. Uh 260 105. Yes. >> Yes. I'm sorry. Okay. So uh we're going to be moving uh resolutions 2695 through 2606. And uh to be uh very transparent, we will read into the record uh 105 and
106, even though we're moving all of them. Before we uh we move them and then read them into the record. Is there any uh member of council who wishes to hold out for a separate vote, any resolution, ask a question or to enter into debate? >> I just have a question on one mayor.
Sure. >> 26100. That's only if affordable housing actually is created in the town does that take effect. Correct, >> Mr. Shiden? >> I believe so. I don't have the the the the
>> affirmative marketing affirmative marketing plan. >> That's the res I read when I reviewed the agenda. That's the affordable marketing plan that be utilized. In the event that a development was created and one of the affordable housing units went on the market, you have to have a a registered agent who puts it out to the
public. There's usually like a lottery process for for people to get into the affordable housing units. >> Okay. >> Madam administrator, anything else? >> No, that is correct. And this is something that we are required to have in place as part of the settlement agreement. >> Yes. >> Okay. That's
>> any other question, comment, pull out. All right. So, we're going to move them all. Could I have a motion and second to move resolutions 26-95 through 26106? >> So, move. >> Do I not have to read this into record? >> Not yet.
>> Oh, second. >> It's been moved and seconded. So, could I now uh ask uh the council council president, do you want to read both of them into the record or do you want to uh ask uh delegate reading 10 uh 26 105 to someone else?
>> Or would you leave read 105 into the record? >> Um declare March 2026 as Women's History Month. >> No, the actual >> where >> Oh, sorry. >> You have it. >> Yeah. Where is Bor River resolution 26105
declared March 2026 as women's history month where whereas every day without fame or fanfare women inspire, support and strengthen their families, communities in our country, women's history month presents a great opportunity to celebrate the tremendous
impact women continue to have on our great nation. And whereas the border river edge recognizes the month of March as women's history month established in 1987 by Congress to celebrate the contribution American women have made to strengthen the nation since its
inception. And whereas Women's History Month honors women from all generations and backgrounds. Women of every race, status, and ethnicity who have challenged the social and legal structures that have kept women's labor underappreciated and underrepresented
throughout history. And whereas American women have been leaders not only securing their own rights and equal opportunity, but also at the forefront of every major social change movement in history, paving the way for future generations to enjoy the analignable
rights, duties, and respons responsibilities afforded equally to all citizens of the United States of America. And whereas each woman is extraordinary in her own way, proving that women working inside the home or outside the academia, science,
technology, business, labor, governance, and more maintain a critical role in every sphere of society. And whereas when women succeed, their communities prosper. And whereas the B of River Edge is especially proud to acknowledge and celebrate the brilliant and talented
female trailblazers in Bor administration today. Now therefore, be it result that the mayor and council of the border of River Edge do hereby proclaim March 2026 as women women's history month and call upon all the
residents of Riveridge to celebrate the exceptional women in their lives and around our town, state, and country. Madame um council president, would you please as finance chair read 2601 26 2610
26-106. >> Thank you mayor. At a regular meeting of the mayor and council of the burough ed burrow of river edge county of spuren state of New Jersey held on March 12th 2026. Be it resolved that the mayor and council of the burrow of river edge approve the following expenditures.
Current fund 22 $270,7745 general capital fund $158,712.74 grant fund $1,570. Trust other $1,29061 payroll $24,8368 developers escrow $4,745.
self insurance trust $13,39757. >> So move >> it's already been moved. >> Uh second every time they say same thing. >> Okay. So um so we we're moving uh we've had a motion and second to move 2695
through 26 106. Uh we have read into the record for transparency and for emphasis 26 105 and 106. Uh though we're moving all of them. Madame clerk. Oh, I'm sorry. Uh is there debate
and we have moved and seconded. I didn't right. We did. Thanks. Okay. Madam clerk. >> Council President Gonzalez. >> Yes. >> Councilwoman Malari. >> Yes. >> Councilman Glass. >> Yes. >> Councilwoman Dariwall. >> Yes. >> Councilman Feffrick. >> Yes. >> Very good. Is there any new business?
>> Mayor is the Oh, go ahead. >> In the comments, >> please go ahead. >> Uh we're not up to comment yet. comment would be council comments. We're just doing new business. Uh that would be something you're asking the council to consider today or in the future. >> No comment on the ordinance.
>> That would be during council comments. You want to do it now? Go ahead. It doesn't. >> Well, it does, but I'm not like >> it's procedural. >> Okay. I didn't know that. >> Okay. Um old business special projects engineer. Madam administrator.
>> Yes. Um, this is listed. We did solicit an RFP and I know our recreation director would like to move forward with um improving the tennis courts as well as have Memorial Park uh studied for
improvements. We have received emails from our congressional representative Joshimer as well as both of our senators for requesting a congressional appropriation. But we need to have a
concept, a plan and a monetary amount to in order to request our representatives for for funding. So um but to come up with all of that we need engineering expertise. >> Okay. So this could fall under two two
um committees. This could fall under the contract committee or this can fall on the personnel committee. I believe that it would be better that it fell under the contract committees for a number of reasons. Uh because we're not it's not so much at this point hiring an
individual. It's about reviewing um what are they called? Perspectives >> proposals proposals. Uh and so um and Dave I think >> yeah I read them cover to cover. They're really statements of qualification. >> Yeah. And you're on the contracts committee, aren't you not?
>> I don't know. I didn't know there were one. There is a we did create one. Well, we had did we renew it this year? >> Yes, I believe >> I believe attorney >> the governing body members who are returning. >> Okay. Well, what I would recommend to
the council is that we uh ask the contract committee look at it and if one member of the contract committee would like to would like to um substitute with Councilman Glass because he is an engineer, um I recommend that. That does not require public action. that just uh
just substituting a member would be a good idea. Is the council in agreement that this uh would be the proper way to move forward? >> Yes. >> Sure. >> All right. Um Yes. >> May I just want to point out that um time is of the essence because with
regards to the tennis courts, this needs to get done around September, October. Well, the time time >> has to be completed, paid, closed out before December before December. So, >> so if we if if it's acceptable, we'll ask the burough administrator to
coordinate with the members of the committee um and uh and or substituting members for Councilman Glass if the committee wishes to do that and then the committee can uh report back to us either at the next meeting which might be a little bit tight or the meeting after that.
>> Okay. Um I think the second meeting in April um actually no the first meeting in April right because we're would be um >> I think >> would be two meetings from now >> right it's I think >> April 12th >> yeah April 12th >> oh 9th sorry
>> so um so if u so if madame administrator if you would just uh coordinate with the committee and um and if the committee can then meet with the administrator uh on whoever might be a part of it I I I would recommend commend to the committee that we keep councilman GL if not keep
him put him on that committee because of his >> on the committee uh Mr. glass and replace that would be an internal discussion amongst the the committee members. >> Okay, have a question. >> Thank you. >> Yes, just clarification. Um,
so I I seem to recall hearing I don't know month or two ago that there is a plan already to renovate the tennis courts. >> No, that is the next project. There's funding already in place. >> There's funding in place. >> Old grant. Yes.
>> So, it is going to happen. It needs to happen. Yes. >> Okay. Yes. And And is there a starting date like so people know, >> you know, when they're going to have use of the tennis courts, when they're not going to have use of the tennis courts? >> We don't have a start date.
>> That's why we need other projects and develop concepts. >> Okay. >> You're not It's not like the pickle ball courts. You're not building something from scratch. You're just repairing it. But we just need >> So funding exists, but there's just no no plan or schedule yet. >> That is correct. Got it.
>> This is where we need to get this done now, >> right? Okay. Thank you. >> We're good. Okay, cool. Um, okay. Council comments. Councilwoman Darwal. >> I just want to thank uh mayor and council for recognizing uh women's
history month in March. Uh it means um not only to the women but also to the men who have these amazing women standing beside them, behind them. And um I'm just calling upon all the residents of River Edge just celebrate those exceptional women in your lives
and around the town around the state and the country. And uh it not only recognizes and celebrates the u talented trailblazers in uh the Edo administration but just all the residents and all the women around you. So thank you. >> Absolutely. And any other member of
council council comments? >> Um yes thank you mayor. Councilman Glass, >> I just want to recogn I um um glad we uh moved forward with this affordable housing matter and I want to
thank Mr. Barren again for all his efforts and really terrific work and I want to thank our land use board. We have a great land use board. We have some great people in it and we're really lucky and they really take it seriously and they work hard
>> and we got >> after I left the land race. >> What >> after I left? >> Yeah, that's a good point. >> You're right. Major improvement >> and um seriously um mayor, you've provided a lot of leadership. >> Thank you.
>> on land use board. It's been very effective. You like guided us through this whole process, got us where we need to be now, and I thank you for that. >> Thank you. Thank you, Councilman. I appreciate those words. Any other member of council? All right. Um, I believe we have a
couple of things coming up just uh, you know, we should just We have the River Edge Run. Uh, that's April. April >> April, right? >> 25th. Yes. >> Um, >> we have, uh, we have March 28th is a celebrating River Edge uh, in it's a
River Edge 250 committee event uh, celebrating 250 years of America happening at the library. >> Good. and starts at 10:30 a.m. goes on until 1 p.m. >> Oh, um I did want to add I I strongly recommend that the contract committee
include uh in addition of course our administrator um our um our uh uh superintendent of public works and um as as part of that and and perhaps also our director of uh recreation.
uh in some of that convers once you get to the point where you're where you've kind of whittleled it down and just so that their input is is >> uh it's a good idea. >> I think it's a great idea because most of the projects are come that are coming up has to do with uh wreck and the DPW.
>> Yeah. >> So >> um Okay. Uh if there Yeah. >> tax assessment. >> Oh yes. Oh, that's very important. So we have um we have uh we have um a burough
reassessment. We we're doing it for five years and we're doing it for five years so that we equalize property values so that everyone is treated fairly. Uh they do 20% or oneif of the town each year. And uh from that uh that um uh actual
on-site reassessment, it then affects um pretty much all the values in town so that we don't have some members of town paying higher than fair or proper value and some members of town paying less. Um
so uh we know that there's been some members of the public who have been concerned about this. Towards that end, Mr. uh >> Anzamino uh Jim Anzavino uh who is our uh tax assessor uh and I and some members of council will be here in
Burough Hall on March 25th from 11 to 1. >> 21st. >> 21st. Did I say 25th? >> Yes. >> At 21st from 11 to1 and I believe that's a Saturday. >> Yes. Yes. >> And any other Mountain Council is is welcome and any member uh and please pass it along. I'll be putting it on the
uh Mayor River Edge Facebook page. it's already on the website. Um, and feel free to share it and let people know. Uh, Mr. Enzino is a tremendous resource. He will be able to explain what the situation is. He will also be able to
explain if if uh if members of the public wish to challenge it, what uh what avenues of challenge they may they may exercise. So um so I highly recommend that we advertise this as best as possible and uh that way the public
can understand. Also I want to thank the citizens budget committee, the council um our CFO, our business administrator uh and uh our finance committee and all those who have worked to um draft our
budget for 2026. It will be introduced at the next meeting uh by state statute has to be introduced before the end of March and then it will be adopted before the end of April and the public there will be a public hearing for this. It was a it's a
very difficult year because um healthc care went up 37%. Um more than uh more than $450,000 just there. Uh it costs us about$1.1 to$1.2 2 million uh for Bergen County
Utility Authority. They get rid of our waste, our when you flush the toilet. That's uh and there have been uh all sorts of increases for materials due to the to the tariffs and there have been also all sorts of increases due to
inflation and fuel costs. So, uh it was a very difficult uh budget to put together. uh commend uh our council president who is the chair of the finance and the finance committee for working very hard at giving us an essential budget and um uh and so it's
coming in at about 4.76 I think. Uh we do not we are not happy with that but that is the best we could do. We had every department look at their budget and they were amazing. all of our departments, our our police, our
fire, uh our DPW, our business, our clerk's office, um who am I leaving out? >> Rick. >> Rick. >> Wreck. And they looked at their budgets and they said, "Where could we cut? And if they needed more money, where could we transfer money?" So, um hard work and
and we are grateful for our volunteers. We are grateful for our professionals. Um and we're grateful for our residents, uh who are our neighbors. Okay. Uh, could I have a motion and second to adjurnn the meeting? >> One last. >> Oh, one last thing. >> Me.
>> You go first. >> I just want to mention um since every uh I forgot to mention it that the annual egg hunt is on also on March 28th from 12:00 p.m. to 2 p.m. >> Good. Neil, we're we're not we don't open to the public again.
>> You said so right after Red Cross was finished. Said you will open to the public. >> We did. only items on the agenda. >> No, any item I said. >> Okay. >> We don't do all the items. Pot Neil, you
are you are a staple of River Edge. I ask the council to make an exception uh and to reopen to the public. Is the council willing? >> So move. >> Could I have a motion and second? >> So move. >> All in favor, please say I. >> I. >> Neil, you have three minutes.
>> Very near and dear to my heart. Carol 321 bails in. As a deputy OEM, I'm always concerned about the mayor and council, and I have afforded the opportunity to the mayor
and council. Well, the mayor, the administrator, and the council president that Rochelle Park is opening their doors next Thursday for an hour and a half at their senior center, which is basically the burrow hall to learn about
the ICS process, incident command system, and all the things related to OEM. and they have one class at 10:00 in the morning and one at 700 p.m. They
last an hour and a half, but a wealth of knowledge. I've had them here. Larry Roush was here in the previous council and I don't know if you were present at the time. I know. >> I think I was. >> Yeah. and it's an hour and a half and
it's a wealth of knowledge and solves a lot of problems by the council having questions of why did this happen, why did that happen, etc. >> So 10:00 a.m. just tell me who's willing to go and
this morning and he has room for anybody that wants to attend. >> Date again? Next Thursday, the 19th >> at 10:00 a.m. >> 10:00 a.m. and 700 p.m. for anybody this >> You can add me. 10 a.m.
>> Okay. Who else? >> You can add me, too. >> Yep. Okay, >> Neil. Um, I did see that email. I'm sorry I didn't respond to it more sooner. This is March 19th, 10:00 a.m. And can you give me the location again?
151 West Pose Street, I believe. >> We can carpool. Mayor, >> sounds good. >> Okay. >> Well, you drive in the driveway, the first driveway, and go around the back. And
>> Neil, that's a three-hour class. >> Hour and a half. >> Hour and a half. I just doubled it, didn't I? >> Yeah. I don't know if you know Barry Leventhal and Matt Zimitz, but they're going to run the class and they're very knowledgeable.
>> They work for the county OEM. >> Um, absolutely. Um, so cool. And, uh, so we'll be there. You'll sign us up. >> Yes. >> Public should know that uh, Neil has
been uh, the backbone of so many great things in our town. um not only as a firefighter and OEM, but uh his his connections with uh the county, Bergen County OEM and Bergen County Fire
Coordination has uh afforded us many benefits, including uh and especially during Hurricane Sandy and other emergencies. And we we thank Neil uh for his uh unwavering attention to detail. Neil, we thank you.
>> Thank you. Anything else? three minutes. >> I turned it off. >> We >> Thank you. >> You're welcome. Uh, can I have a motion and second to close the public? >> So, move. >> All in favor, please say I. >> I. >> All right. Could I have a motion and second to adjourn the meeting? >> So,
moved and seconded. All in favor, please say I. >> I. >> Thank you, Neil. Thank