Glen Ridge ratifies four-year PBA contract, pursues Essex-Hudson Greenway grants

The Council ratified a new labor agreement with the Policemen's Benevolent Association Local 58 covering January 1, 2020 through December 31, 2023 (Resolution 95-20), following the recommendation of the Borough's negotiating team, and authorized the Mayor and Borough Administrator to execute the contract. The Council also introduced Ordinance No. 1732, establishing rules for Special Law Enforcement Officers, on first reading.

Glen Ridge continued pursuing state and county funding for infrastructure and open-space projects, submitting NJDOT grant applications for its 2021 Various Streets paving program (Resolution 96-20) as well as two applications tied to the regional Essex-Hudson Greenway project: one for the greenway itself (Resolution 98-20) and one for an associated bike path (Resolution 99-20). Correspondence noted that Glenfield Park had been nominated to the National Register of Historic Places and that the Borough had been awarded a $24,999 Certified Local Government grant from the EPA to develop guidelines for its Historic District.

Mayor Patrick reported a small uptick in COVID-19 cases after several weeks without any, reminding residents to keep practicing social distancing. Councilor Morrow reported that the Building Department remained fully operational despite the Municipal Building's closure to the public, and that the Planning Board would review the Master Plan at its July 15 meeting. Deputy Clerk Ventola encouraged residents to use vote-by-mail for the 2020 primary election, and a police lieutenant reminded residents about social distancing and safe habits heading into the Fourth of July.

What to watch

• Ordinance No. 1732 (Special Law Enforcement Officers) proceeds to a public hearing and possible final adoption
• Planning Board to review the Master Plan at its July 15 meeting
• NJDOT grant decisions pending for the 2021 paving program and the Essex-Hudson Greenway/bike path applications