Saddle River public meetings in 2025
33 substantive meetings from 2025, with official agendas or minutes and plain-English summaries.
Mayor and Council
The Saddle River Mayor and Council held a special meeting on December 8, 2025, to consider a bid award before the 60-day deadline. They unanimously approved Resolution 200-25, awarding the bid for the Fire Department Annex Building. No other substantive decisions were made; the meeting was otherwise procedural.
- Approved Resolution 200-25 awarding bid for Fire Department Annex Building (6-0)
Mayor and Council
The Mayor and Council voted unanimously to table adoption of Ordinance 25-1102, which would regulate small cell wireless facilities in municipal rights-of-way, after public comments raised concerns about aesthetics and property values. The council also introduced Ordinance 25-1104 to increase the maximum penalty for general code violations from $1,000 to $2,000, aligning with state law. All other resolutions on the consent agenda and two FEMA firefighter grant resolutions were approved.
- Tabled Ordinance 25-1102 (small cell wireless facilities) (5-0)
- Introduced Ordinance 25-1104 to raise max penalty to $2,000 (5-0)
- Approved Resolution 176-25 FEMA firefighter grant (5-0)
- Approved Resolution 177-25 Chapter 159 firefighter grant (5-0)
- Approved consent agenda resolutions 169-25 through 175-25 (4-0, 1 abstention)
- Approved minutes of Sept. 15 and Oct. 6 meetings (5-0)
- Approved Resolution 168-25 bill list (5-0)
Planning Board
The Planning Board ruled that the proposed stormwater management facilities on Lot 24 at 14 Algonquin Trail are a principal permitted use under the R-1 zone ordinance, meaning no use variance is required. However, the Board found the applicant's notice defective for failing to list other variances (e.g., lot area, setbacks, steep slopes). The applicant chose not to proceed and will re-notice for the October 7 hearing.
- Ruled Lot 24 stormwater facilities are a permitted principal use under R-1 zone (210-9(g)), no use variance required (unanimous)
- Found applicant's notice defective for omitting other variances (lot area, setbacks, steep slopes)
- Allowed applicant to proceed on Algonquin site at own risk, but Board won't defend on appeal
- Continued hearing to October 7, 2025, subject to applicant re-noticing
- Agreed to extend East Allendale decision deadline to November 11, 2025
- Agreed to extend Algonquin decision deadline to November 7, 2025
- Directed applicant to prepare zoning table for Lot 24
- Directed applicant to email Exhibit A-11 (detention vault) to Board professionals
Planning Board
The Planning Board heard testimony on two applications but made no final decisions. The 11 Deer Trail Road soil relocation application was carried to September 9, 2025, after the applicant agreed to a deed restriction and to obtain counsel. The Toll Brothers application for 48 units at 14 Algonquin Trail and 167 West Saddle River Road was also carried to September 9, with the decision deadline extended to September 10. Both matters remain pending.
- Carried 11 Deer Trail Road soil relocation application to Sept. 9, 2025
- Carried Toll Brothers site plan application to Sept. 9, 2025, with decision deadline extended to Sept. 10
- Approved May 6, 2025 meeting minutes (7-0, 2 abstentions)
- Approved May 6, 2025 closed session minutes (7-0, 2 abstentions)
- Entered closed session to discuss deed restriction and attorney-client advice (9-0)
- Reopened public session after closed session (9-0)
Planning Board
The Planning Board approved the soil movement application for 11 Deer Trail Road, conditioned on recording a zoning-merger resolution and landscaping supervision. It also granted a 6-month extension for the 156 Chestnut Ridge Road project, contingent on restoring a 25-foot non-disturbance area. The Toll Brothers East Allendale hearing was continued to October 14, 2025, with no decision made.
- Approved 11 Deer Trail Road soil movement with conditions (8-0)
- Granted 6-month extension for 156 Chestnut Ridge Road (8-0)
- Continued Toll Brothers East Allendale hearing to Oct 14, 2025
Zoning Board of Adjustment
The Saddle River Zoning Board of Adjustment approved three variance applications at its October 15, 2025 meeting. A pavilion at 16 Old Acres Rd. was approved as a C1 variance for an undersized, irregular corner lot. Additions at 8 Stonewall Rd. were approved as a C2 variance for building coverage. A third application at 21 East Saddle River Rd. was approved as both C1 and C2 variances, with the gravel area in the no-disturbance zone removed from the plan. All votes were unanimous among the four members present.
- Approved pavilion at 16 Old Acres Rd. as C1 variance (4-0)
- Approved home additions at 8 Stonewall Rd. as C2 variance (4-0)
- Approved additions and retaining wall at 21 East Saddle River Rd. as C1 and C2 variances (4-0)
- Approved ZBA Resolution 19-25 for 242 E. Saddle River Rd. (3-0-1 abstention)
Zoning Board of Adjustment
The Zoning Board of Adjustment voted 5-1 to approve Option 2, a hammerhead turnaround in the rear of the property at 242 E. Saddle River Rd., granting variances for maximum lot coverage (25.3% vs. 21% permitted) and encroachment into the non-disturbance zone. A motion to approve the applicant's preferred Option 1 (front turnaround) failed in a 3-3 tie, which counts as a denial. The board also approved the August 20, 2025 minutes and Resolution 18-25 for Michael Atieh, and discussed revising the ZBA checklist to reduce the tree-size definition for landscape plans from 8" to 6" caliper.
- Approved Option 2 hammerhead turnaround with variances for lot coverage and non-disturbance encroachment (5-1)
- Denied Option 1 front turnaround (3-3 tie)
- Approved August 20, 2025 meeting minutes (6-0)
- Approved ZBA Resolution 18-25 for Michael Atieh (6-0)
- Discussed revising ZBA checklist to define trees as 6" caliper for landscape plan requirements
Mayor and Council
The Mayor and Council adopted two ordinances to acquire 22 East Allendale Road for affordable housing or other public purposes, including a bond ordinance appropriating $860,000 and authorizing $819,000 in bonds. They also adopted an ordinance vacating a drainage easement at 1 Eugene Road/44 Cameron Road. Two ordinances were introduced for future consideration: one regulating small cell wireless (5G) facilities in rights-of-way and one amending parks and recreation code. A resolution for historic preservation consultant services was tabled.
- Adopted Ordinance 25-1099 authorizing acquisition of 22 E. Allendale Rd. (6-0)
- Adopted Ordinance 25-1100-M bond ordinance appropriating $860,000, issuing $819,000 in bonds (6-0)
- Adopted Ordinance 25-1101 vacating drainage easement at 1 Eugene Rd./44 Cameron Rd. (6-0)
- Introduced Ordinance 25-1102 regulating small cell wireless facilities in rights-of-way (5-0-1)
- Introduced Ordinance 25-1103 amending parks and recreation code (6-0)
- Approved Consent Agenda resolutions: firefighter appointment, DPW seasonal hire, bulletproof vest grant (5-0-1)
- Approved Resolution 163-25 appointing probationary police officer Bernard Dahdah (6-0)
- Tabled Resolution 164-25 for historic preservation consultant services (6-0)
Zoning Board of Adjustment
The Saddle River Zoning Board of Adjustment approved Michael Atieh's application to enclose a second-story porch at 13 Ackerman Rd., despite the home's non-conforming front yard setback. The board also approved minutes, appointed a substitute attorney, and memorialized two prior resolutions. The application for 242 E. Saddle River Rd. was carried to the next meeting.
- Approved porch enclosure at 13 Ackerman Rd. (6-0)
- Approved Resolution 15-25 appointing Jonathan E. Drill as substitute board attorney (6-0)
- Approved Resolution 16-25 for 116 East Saddle River Road (6-0)
- Approved Resolution 17-25 for 16 Rock Ledge Rd. (6-0)
- Approved July 16, 2025 minutes (6-0)
- Carried application for 242 E. Saddle River Rd. to next meeting
Mayor and Council
The council introduced ordinances to acquire 22 E. Allendale Rd. for $830,000 and to bond $860,000 for the purchase, both for affordable housing compliance. It also approved a $19,000 barn relocation contract, a deer cull agreement with United Bowhunters with amendments, and several routine resolutions. The Avalon Bay project was denied permits for missing a deadline and must return to the Planning Board.
- Introduced Ordinance 25-1099 to acquire 22 E. Allendale Rd. for $830,000 (6-0)
- Introduced Ordinance 25-1100-M authorizing $860,000 bond for the acquisition (6-0)
- Approved Resolution 156-25 deer cull agreement with United Bowhunters with amendments (6-0)
- Approved Resolution 157-25 barn relocation contract with Lorenzo Construction, max $19,000 (6-0)
- Approved Resolution 146-25 releasing performance bond to S.R. Barnstable LLC (5-0, Hekemian recused)
- Approved Resolution 148-25 amending 2025 capital budget (6-0)
- Approved Consent Agenda resolutions 149-25 through 153-25 (5-0, J. Kurpis abstained)
- Approved Resolution 154-25 long-range drainage control plan (6-0)
Mayor and Council
The Saddle River Mayor and Council approved the bill list (Resolution 138-25) and a six-item consent agenda (Resolutions 139-25 through 144-25), including appointments and a bid threshold increase. During public comment, residents raised concerns about the Toll Bros. development in Upper Saddle River, flooding, and pedestrian safety, but no action was taken on these topics. The council also entered closed session to discuss real property acquisition and litigation.
- Approved Resolution 138-25, Approval of Bills (6-0)
- Approved Consent Agenda Resolutions 139-25 through 144-25 (5-0-1, Kurpis abstained)
- Approved minutes from May 19, June 2, June 23, and June 25 meetings (6-0)
- Entered closed session for real property acquisition and litigation matters (6-0)
Zoning Board of Adjustment
The board approved a one-year extension for approvals at 116 E. Saddle River Rd., allowing the applicant until December 31, 2025, and abandoning a planned bowling alley for a lounge area. It also approved a front porch variance at 16 Rock Ledge and memorialized two prior resolutions, including one denying an application at 58 West Saddle River Rd. An application at 242 E. Saddle River Rd. was adjourned to the next meeting.
- Approved one-year extension for 116 E. Saddle River Rd. approvals (unanimous)
- Approved front porch variance at 16 Rock Ledge (unanimous)
- Approved Resolution 13-25 for Sandra Scott, 28 Woodfield Lane (unanimous)
- Approved Resolution 14-25 denying Ping Yip application at 58 West Saddle River Rd. (unanimous)
- Adjourned application for 242 E. Saddle River Rd. to next meeting
Mayor and Council
The Saddle River Mayor and Council introduced Ordinance 25-1098, amending parks and recreation rules, after removing a sunset/sunrise time restriction. They also approved several resolutions, including reappointing Cindy Kirkpatrick as Municipal Clerk, and moved forward with a proposed 'Nest Pavilion' educational kiosk project, to be funded largely by donations and grants.
- Introduced amended Ordinance 25-1098 (parks and recreation) (4-0)
- Approved Consent Agenda resolutions 118-25, 119-25, 120-25 (3-0-1)
- Awarded Air & Gas Technologies for SCBA cylinder recharging system (4-0)
- Awarded Gallen Contracting for demo services at 153 E. Saddle River Rd (4-0)
- Reappointed Cindy Kirkpatrick as Municipal Clerk (4-0)
- Moved to proceed with Nest Pavilion Project (4-0)
Mayor and Council
The Mayor and Council adopted Ordinance 25-1098, amending the Parks and Recreation code to prohibit fishing, feeding wildlife, and other activities at Tricker Pond Annex and the pedestrian bridge. They also approved the bill list, consent agenda resolutions, the annual audit report, a grant application for road improvements, and an agreement with Veolia Water. The council hired special litigation counsel to represent the borough in litigation with Veolia Water New Jersey, Inc.
- Adopted Ordinance 25-1098 amending Parks and Recreation code (4-0)
- Approved Resolution 125-25, payment of bills (4-0)
- Approved Consent Agenda resolutions 126-25 through 130-25 (4-0)
- Approved Resolution 131-25, Annual Audit Report (4-0)
- Approved Resolution 132-25, NJDOT grant application for Lower Cross Road improvements (4-0)
- Approved Resolution 133-25, agreement with Veolia Water NJ Inc. for Saddle River Day School Main Extension (4-0)
- Approved hiring Victor Herlinsky Jr. of Sills Cummis & Gross as special litigation counsel for Veolia litigation, at $500/hour up to $25,000 (4-0)
Mayor and Council
The Saddle River Borough Council unanimously endorsed the 2025 Fourth Round Housing Element and Fair Share Plan (HEFSP) as adopted by the Planning Board. The council also directed the affordable housing attorney to request the Planning Board schedule two in-person meetings per month starting in October to address a developer's application. A resident's complaint about flooding and debris from a nearby project was discussed, with a councilman asking for photos to address with the developer.
- Endorsed Resolution 136-25, the 2025 Fourth Round Housing Element and Fair Share Plan (5-0)
- Directed attorney to ask Planning Board to schedule two in-person meetings per month starting in October (5-0)
- Moved into closed session to discuss affordable housing (5-0)
Mayor and Council
The Mayor and Council adopted five ordinances on second reading: limiting garage doors on residential properties, prohibiting unauthorized signs on private property, updating erosion and sediment control fees, renaming the certificate of continued occupancy to certificate of continued inspection, and adopting a new flood damage prevention ordinance with updated FEMA maps. The council also approved the bill list, minutes, and a consent agenda of 13 resolutions, and authorized a new façade for Borough Hall.
- Adopted Ordinance 25-1093 limiting garage doors to 6 per premises, 4 on principal structure, 3 on accessory (5-0)
- Adopted Ordinance 25-1094 prohibiting unauthorized signs on private property (5-0)
- Adopted Ordinance 25-1095 updating soil erosion and sediment control fees (5-0)
- Adopted Ordinance 25-1096 renaming certificate of continued occupancy to certificate of continued inspection (5-0)
- Adopted Ordinance 25-1097 adopting new flood damage prevention ordinance and designating Borough Engineer as Floodplain Administrator (5-0)
- Approved Resolution 103-25 for payment of bills (5-0)
- Approved consent agenda of 13 resolutions including snow removal contract and vehicle procurement (4-0, Kurpis abstained)
- Authorized proceeding with Borough Hall façade improvements (5-0)
Zoning Board of Adjustment
The Saddle River Zoning Board denied a C(1) variance application by Ping Yip for an unpermitted carport at 58 West Saddle River Rd., which encroached on the front yard setback due to flooding. The board also approved a memorializing resolution for Rebecca Finley and granted a variance for a pool and patio at 28 Woodfield Lane. The meeting was otherwise routine.
- Approved April 16, 2025 minutes (7-0)
- Approved Resolution 12-25 for Rebecca Finley, 49 Twin Brooks Rd. (7-0)
- Approved C(1) variances for pool/patio at 28 Woodfield Lane (7-0)
- Denied C(1) variance for carport at 58 West Saddle River Rd. (6-1, Nazzaro dissenting)
Planning Board
The Saddle River Planning Board held a brief meeting on May 6, 2025, approving the April 8, 2025 meeting minutes and two memorializing resolutions (25-12 for 38 Mohegan Trail and 25-13 for 14 Bayberry Drive). All votes were unanimous with two abstentions. The board also entered and exited closed session to receive guidance from the planner on upcoming hearings and projects.
- Approved April 8, 2025 meeting minutes (7-0, 2 abstentions)
- Approved Memorializing Resolution 25-12 for 38 Mohegan Trail (7-0, 2 abstentions)
- Approved Memorializing Resolution 25-13 for 14 Bayberry Drive (7-0, 2 abstentions)
- Entered closed session to receive planner guidance (unanimous)
- Exited closed session and reopened meeting (unanimous)
Zoning Board of Adjustment
The Saddle River Zoning Board approved a front yard setback variance for Rebecca Finley's property at 49 Twin Brooks Rd., allowing a first-floor addition and garage. The board also approved two memorializing resolutions for prior approvals and accepted the withdrawal of an application from Joseph Aziz. All votes were unanimous except for one abstention on the minutes and resolutions.
- Approved front yard setback variance (C1/C2) for 49 Twin Brooks Rd. addition (7-0)
- Approved Resolution 10-25, one-year extension for JD Saddle River LLC at 6 Bayberry Dr. (6-0, 1 abstention)
- Approved Resolution 11-25 for Latierno at 99 W. Saddle River Rd. (6-0, 1 abstention)
- Approved March 19, 2025 minutes (6-0, 1 abstention)
- Application by Joseph Aziz at 12 Woodfield Lane withdrawn by applicant
Planning Board
The Saddle River Planning Board approved an extension for AvalonBay Communities' site plan approval, adding a condition requiring written approval from Allendale for sewer flow or a commitment to install a new sewer line. The board also approved a soil relocation application for a new home at 65 Fox Hedge Road, subject to conditions including tree preservation measures.
- Granted AvalonBay extension subject to new Condition 15 requiring Allendale sewer approval or commitment to install new line (6-0, Mayor recused)
- Approved soil relocation for 65 Fox Hedge Road, Block 1105 Lot 24, for new 6-bedroom home (7-0)
- Approved February 4, 2025 meeting minutes (6-0, 2 abstentions)
- Memorialized 3 Willow Pond Road (8-0)
- Entered closed session for legal topics (8-0)
- Reopened open meeting from closed session (8-0)
Planning Board
The Saddle River Planning Board approved two applications: a minor subdivision and soil relocation at 10 & 14 Bayberry Drive, and a soil relocation at 38 Mohegan Trail. Both approvals were granted with conditions as recommended by the borough engineer and landscape architect. The board also adopted two memorializing resolutions, including one for AvalonBay extension with conditions.
- Approved 10 & 14 Bayberry Drive minor subdivision and soil relocation (8-0, DeCrosta recused)
- Approved 38 Mohegan Trail soil relocation (9-0)
- Adopted Memorializing Resolution 25-10 AvalonBay extension with conditions (6-0, 3 abstentions)
- Adopted Memorializing Resolution 25-11 65 Fox Hedge Road (6-0, 3 abstentions)
- Approved March 4, 2025 meeting minutes (7-0, 2 abstentions)
Mayor and Council
The Mayor and Council introduced three ordinances and approved several resolutions, all by unanimous 4-0 votes (with two members absent). The most significant action was introducing a $1.75 million bond ordinance for firehouse improvements and fire vehicle housing, along with a $350,000 capital ordinance for Rindlaub Park Phase III, police/fire equipment, and channel clearing. The council also approved the 2025 municipal budget and a resolution to anticipate miscellaneous revenues. All introduced ordinances will receive final consideration at the April 21, 2025 meeting.
- Introduced $1.75M bond ordinance for firehouse improvements (4-0)
- Introduced $350K capital ordinance for Rindlaub Park Phase III, police/fire equipment, channel clearing (4-0)
- Introduced ordinance to exceed budget appropriation limits and establish cap bank (4-0)
- Approved 2025 municipal budget (4-0)
- Approved Resolution 73-25, budget transfer between line items (4-0)
- Approved Resolution 74-25, anticipating miscellaneous revenues (4-0)
- Approved bill list for payment (4-0)
- Approved consent agenda including soil moving, tax refund, hearing officer extension, ambulance agreement (4-0)
Zoning Board of Adjustment
The Zoning Board of Adjustment held its reorganization meeting, administering oaths to three members and unanimously approving all resolutions. The board elected John 'Bud' Montana as Chair, Robert Howard as Vice Chair, and Cindy Kirkpatrick as Secretary, and reappointed Doreen Winn as attorney, Martin Spence as engineer, and Scott Levy as landscape architect. It also approved filing fees, adopted bylaws, and approved the application form. No substantive zoning cases were heard.
- Approved December 18, 2024 minutes (unanimous)
- Elected John 'Bud' Montana as Chair (unanimous)
- Elected Robert Howard as Vice Chair (unanimous)
- Elected Cindy Kirkpatrick as Secretary (unanimous)
- Appointed Doreen Winn as board attorney (unanimous)
- Appointed Martin Spence as board engineer (unanimous)
- Appointed Scott Levy as landscape architect (unanimous)
- Approved filing fees, bylaws, and application form (unanimous)
Planning Board
The Saddle River Planning Board approved the soil relocation application for 3 Willow Pond Road, Block 1801 Lot 11.01, which required board review because the additional seepage pit brought the soil volume above 500 cubic yards. The vote was unanimous among those present, with Dior Vass abstaining on the prior minutes but voting in favor of this application. The applicant agreed to work with the landscape architect's office to generate a landscape plan.
- Approved soil relocation application for 3 Willow Pond Road (unanimous among present)
- Approved December 3, 2024 meeting minutes (6-0, 1 abstention)
- Approved January 7, 2025 meeting minutes (6-0, 1 abstention)
Planning Board
The Saddle River Planning Board approved a 6-month extension for Davinder Singh's construction at 156 Chestnut Ridge Road, despite his request for 24 months. The board also appointed officers and professionals for 2025, approved by-laws, and memorialized prior decisions. A concept plan review by Toll Brothers for developments on East Allendale Road and Algonquin Trail was presented, with public comments heard but no formal decision made.
- Granted 6-month extension to Davinder Singh for 156 Chestnut Ridge Road (unanimous)
- Elected Nicholas Lonzisero as Chairperson (unanimous)
- Elected Carol Boyajian as Vice-Chairperson (unanimous)
- Elected Jerry DeCrosta as Secretary (unanimous)
- Appointed Planning Board Attorney (unanimous)
- Appointed Planning Board Engineer (unanimous)
- Appointed Planning Board Landscape Architect (unanimous)
- Approved Planning Board By-Laws 2025 (unanimous)
Mayor and Council
The Mayor and Council approved the promotion of Sgt. Riedel and Sgt. Passaretti to lieutenant in the Saddle River Police Department, following a Personnel Committee recommendation. They also approved a $1.2 million county grant for acquiring 210 W. Saddle River Rd., appointed a new full-time police officer, and approved routine resolutions including a raffle license and an employee assistance program agreement. The meeting included public comments on deer hunting, affordable housing, and environmental concerns, but no formal action was taken on those topics.
- Approved promotion of Sgt. Riedel to lieutenant (5-0)
- Approved promotion of Sgt. Passaretti to lieutenant (5-0)
- Approved $1.2M county grant for acquisition of 210 W. Saddle River Rd.
- Appointed James DeLuca as full-time police officer (5-0)
- Approved Resolution 61-25 EEOC Certification (5-0)
- Approved Consent Agenda resolutions 58-25, 59-25, 60-25 (4-0-1, Kurpis abstained)
- Approved bill list Resolution 57-25 (5-0)
- Approved minutes of Jan. 22, 2025 regular and executive sessions (5-0)
Mayor and Council
The council adopted three ordinances: a stormwater control update, an ordinance authorizing the purchase of 125 W. Saddle River Rd. for historic/open space preservation, and a $1.13M bond ordinance to fund it. It also approved a consent agenda including a shared services agreement with the Board of Education and a new DPW laborer hire. All votes were unanimous (5-0) with Councilman Sachdev absent.
- Adopted Ordinance 24-1089, repealing/replacing Chapter 181 Stormwater Control (5-0)
- Adopted Ordinance 24-1088, authorizing acquisition of 125 W. Saddle River Rd. (5-0)
- Adopted Ordinance 24-1087-M, $1.13M bond ordinance for property acquisition (5-0)
- Approved Resolution 201-24, bill list (5-0)
- Approved Consent Agenda including Resolution 206-24, shared services with Board of Ed (4-0, Kurpis abstained)
- Approved Resolution 220-24, $890,000 Bergen County grant for 210 W. Saddle River Rd. acquisition (5-0)
- Approved Resolution 221-24, Rindlaub Park Phase 3 path contract (5-0)
- Approved Resolution 219-24, municipal service contract with Saddle River Grand, LLC (5-0)
Mayor and Council
The Saddle River Mayor and Council held its annual reorganization meeting, swearing in two council members and appointing David Hekemian as Council President. The council approved the 2025 bylaws, appointed members to the Planning Board, Zoning Board, and other commissions, and approved a consent agenda of routine resolutions. All votes were unanimous except for a few abstentions by Councilman Kurpis and Hekemian.
- Appointed David Hekemian as Council President for 2025 (5-0, Hekemian abstained)
- Approved 2025 bylaws (6-0)
- Appointed Planning Board members including Richard Molinari, Edward Wishik, Doug Holden, Jerry DeCrosta, Patty Nazzaro, and Dior Vass
- Appointed David Hekemian as Class III member of the Planning Board (5-0, Hekemian abstained)
- Approved appointments to Zoning Board, Board of Health, Parks and Recreation, Landmarks Commission, and standing committees
- Approved consent agenda of 33 resolutions including professional contracts, appointments, and shared services agreements (5-0, Kurpis abstained)
- Administered oath to Fire Department line officers including Chief William Salvatori
- Presented Mayor's Annual Community Service Award to William Salvatori and posthumous Lifetime of Dedication Award to Laurel Epstein
Mayor and Council
The Saddle River Mayor and Council approved a grant proposal to the NJDCA for $100,000 to rehabilitate the tennis and pickleball courts. They also approved a resolution committing to DCA's Fair Share housing numbers after closed session. Several routine resolutions were approved via consent agenda, including an interlocal agreement for 911 services and ZBA reappointments. The meeting included public comments on police hiring and bridge safety, but no other substantive decisions were made.
- Approved Resolution 54-25 authorizing grant proposal to NJDCA for $100,000 for tennis/pickleball court rehab (6-0)
- Approved Resolution 53-25 committing to DCA's Fair Share Numbers (6-0)
- Approved consent agenda resolutions 48-25 through 52-25, including soil movement, transfer, 911 interlocal agreement, ZBA reappointments, and Hoplite Communications appointment (5-0, Kurpis abstained)
- Approved minutes from December 16, 2024 and January 3, 2025 meetings (6-0)
- Approved bill list Resolution 47-25 (6-0)
Zoning Board of Adjustment
The board approved a memorializing resolution granting a C1 and C2 variance for a property at 101 W. Saddle River Rd. (Block 1609 Lot 17). It also approved the 2024 Annual Report, which recommended no zoning ordinance changes. Minutes from November 13, 2024, were approved.
- Approved Resolution 17-24 granting C1 and C2 variance for 101 W. Saddle River Rd. (5-0)
- Approved 2024 Annual Report (Resolution 18-24) with no recommended ordinance changes (7-0)
- Approved November 13, 2024 meeting minutes (5-0)
Mayor and Council
The Saddle River Mayor and Council introduced three ordinances, including a $1.13M bond to acquire the historic Vernooy House at 125 West Saddle River Road for preservation and open space. They also introduced a stormwater control ordinance and amended the capital budget. All votes were unanimous, with final passage scheduled for December 16, 2024.
- Introduced Ordinance 24-1088 to acquire 125 West Saddle River Road (Vernooy House) for historic preservation (6-0)
- Introduced Ordinance 24-1087-M, a $1,130,000 bond ordinance for the property acquisition (6-0)
- Introduced Ordinance 24-1089 to repeal and replace Chapter 181 'Stormwater Control' (6-0)
- Approved Resolution 192-24 amending the 2024 capital budget (6-0)
- Approved Resolution 193-24, the bill list for payment (6-0)
- Approved Consent Agenda including appointment of Kevin R. Morse as probationary firefighter and interlocal sewer operator agreement (5-0, Kurpis abstained)
- Approved Resolutions 196-24, 197-24, 198-24 (6-0)
- Approved Resolution 199-24 regarding wetlands certification (5-0, Kurpis recused)
Planning Board
The Planning Board approved the memorialization of the preliminary and final site plan for Saddle River Day School's Phase 1 expansion, adding language to the resolution clarifying that the drainage system is designed for the entire future development, including the performing arts building and gymnasium. The vote was 5-0 with one abstention. The meeting otherwise handled routine procedural items.
- Approved September 3, 2024 meeting minutes (4-0, 2 abstentions)
- Approved R# 24-18 Memorialization of Preliminary and Final Site Plan Approval for Saddle River Day School (5-0, 1 abstention)
Zoning Board of Adjustment
The Zoning Board of Adjustment approved Jessica Mohen's application for a home addition and updates at 101 W. Saddle River Rd., granting multiple variances for setbacks, coverage, and other bulk standards. The approval is subject to conditions from the board engineer and landscape architect, including relocating the septic field and adding plantings. The vote was unanimous (6-0).
- Approved application for addition and variances at 101 W. Saddle River Rd. (6-0)
- Approved September 18, 2024 minutes (6-0)
- Agreed to hold December 18 meeting via Zoom if no applications