Council Marks Domestic Violence Awareness Month, Appoints Three to Board of Adjustment

Mayor Patrick proclaimed October Domestic Violence Awareness Month, citing that roughly one in three American women and one in four American men experience physical violence by an intimate partner in their lifetime. During public comment, residents again asked about the status of the short-term rental (Airbnb) ordinance and future access to George Washington Field, though no updates were given.

Council appointed Garry Sprong as a member of the Board of Adjustment (term expiring December 31, 2023), and Sean Payne and Steve Zimet as first and second alternate members, respectively (terms expiring December 31, 2024). Councilor Lefkovits, chair of Community Affairs and Public Relations, asked Chief Quinn whether newly installed bollards on Ridgewood Avenue were slowing traffic; the chief reported slower speeds and no accidents since installation. Councilor Morrow reported the Essex County Greenway project's Phase I development is expected to open in spring 2024.

Routine business included approval of claims and payroll, a budget amendment inserting a $13,721.26 Essex County Municipal Alliance Committee grant as revenue, and a raffle license for the Glen Ridge HSA. Administrator Zichelli thanked outgoing Planning Board member William Seeman for his years of service and reminded residents to schedule appointments for water meter battery replacements when notified. Chief Quinn reported a well-attended car-seat installation event, with ongoing installation appointments available by request.

All votes passed unanimously; all six councilors were present, though Hughes and Lefkovits did not vote on approving minutes from the September 27 meeting, which they had not attended.

What to watch

• Status of the short-term rental (Airbnb) ordinance, still pending after being tabled
• George Washington Field access arrangement with Montclair remains unresolved
• Essex County Greenway Phase I opening expected spring 2024
• Borough-wide water meter replacement program continuing; residents should watch for battery-replacement notices