By Rue Eisen
Bulky trash pickup became an issue for approximately 65 residents who expressed concern online that strangers were picking through their bulky trash put out at the curb for collection and taking items. In one case, a trash picker took new, not yet planted bushes that had been delivered by a landscaper to a borough property that were left sitting near the bulky trash. All members agreed that bulky trash pickup should not be discontinued, that pickers help to reduce trash tonnage, and that it is a green program when pickers reuse and recycle items put out for trash. The borough must honor its trash contract, which is in place. The mayor suggested that residents may opt out, and could call 1-800-JUNK if they no longer wish to participate in the bulky trash program.
Road resurfacing bids will be requested on July 18 for resurfacing a portion of Old Stone Church, Briarcliff and Colonial Roads.
Capital projects were reviewed by the finance committee with recommendations to replace certain fire equipment, portable radios for the fire department and the ambulance squad, information equipment for the police department, a police vehicle, and the resurfacing of the borough’s tennis courts.
A draft of the resolution was approved authorizing Amicus Curiae (friend of the court) participation with the League of Municipalities in the appeal of Verizon New Jersey, Inc. v. Hopewell Borough, a 10-year litigation, in which Verizon is seeking relief from paying business personal taxes because of its provision of dial tone access to 51% of the borough.
Online stormwater training was mentioned as a goal for all members to take. Some members said that they had already completed the training.
The USRA Coalition applied for and received a grant for community awareness and education on substance abuse education. This is a partnership between Upper Saddle River and Allendale boroughs and police departments. A National Night Out is being planned, which will partially supported by funds from Columbia Bank.
The Lions Club sent a letter thanking the borough for its support of this year’s carnival. Unfortunately, this year, our area was inundated with several nights of rain during the week of Memorial Day.
Present: Mayor Joanne Minichetti, Councilmembers Steve DiMartino, Jonathan Ditkoff, Vincent Durante, Joanne Florio, Douglas Rotella, Borough Administrator Ted Preusch, Borough Attorney Robert Regan, Deputy Borough Clerk Joy Convertini, Resident Rue Eisen, Resident Barbara Vitale