EMERSON—September is shaping up to be a busy month in the Borough, with milestones that reflect both the community’s gratitude to those who served and its attention to present-day challenges. Here are highlights from Mayor Danielle DiPaola’s report to the council at their Aug. 19 meeting:
On Tuesday, Sept. 16, officials will gather with American Legion Post 269, the Housing Development Corporation of Bergen County, and other dignitaries for the long-awaited Phase 2 groundbreaking of the Veterans Housing Project.
“This project has been in the works for years, and we are so pleased to see it becoming a reality,” DiPaola said. Once construction begins — expected later this year after contracts are finalized — the development should take about 18 months. Plans include permanent meeting space for Post 269 and apartments where men and women who served our country can live with dignity and stability.
We’ve reported that new facility will serve as meeting space for American Legion Post 269 veterans. For background, see “Venerable DeBaun House, Legion’s old home, is razed” in Pascack Press, by John Snyder, posted June 13, 2022.
That same evening, at 7:30 p.m. in Council Chambers, the Governing Body will host a presentation by the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection’s Bureau of Wildlife Management. The talk will focus on the biology of deer, the impacts of overpopulation, and management options available to local governments.
No action is planned at this time, but the discussion comes with urgency: Emerson experienced a fatal accident involving a deer last year. Neighboring communities are invited to join what borough officials emphasize is an informational session.
This is a meeting you’ll want to attend if for no other reason than it includes a celebration of Clara Urgo’s 100th birthday. All are welcome!
Here’s a link to the meeting agenda and related documents.
Honoring Volunteers and Employees
The Borough recently held its annual Employee and Volunteer Appreciation Day at Hackensack Golf Club. Despite stormy skies, attendees enjoyed a poolside barbecue while celebrating the Environmental Commission, named 2024 Volunteers of the Year, and DPW Superintendent Perry Solimando, honored as Employee of the Year.
Roads, Projects, and Services
PSE&G’s gas modernization project continues to reshape local streets. From Aug. 21 through Sept. 3, weather permitting, the utility is restoring roadways such as Ackerman Avenue. A separate drainage and paving project is also underway on Park Avenue. Notices have been distributed, and updates will be posted on the borough website and social media.
Tax payments: Third-quarter property taxes are due Saturday, Aug. 30. Residents can pay online at emersonnj.org/viewpaytaxes.
Collection services: Mixed garden debris will be picked up on Labor Day, Monday, Sept. 1.
Around Town
The Mayor & Council Presents…Summer Concert Series wrapped up for the season, with planning already underway for next summer.
New businesses are sprouting too: Wayback Burgers and Molte Pizza have opened at the former Boston Market site, with a ribbon-cutting ceremony to follow.
On the recreation front, new pickleball courts at Emerson Jr./Sr. High School are now open, with a grand opening event to be announced.
Support for Seniors
Emerson’s Senior Club will meet on Thursday, Sept. 11. The lively group welcomes residents 55+ for weekly activities, day trips, and in-house programs. Details are at emersonnj.org/seniors.
Meanwhile, Meals on Wheels North Jersey is enrolling new clients in northern Bergen County, delivering meals to older adults and those recovering from illness or surgery. Call 201-358-0050 or visit mealsonwheelsnorthjersey.orgfor details.
Keeping Emerson Tidy
With more people outdoors, the Borough reminds residents to report property maintenance issues by calling 201-262-6086 ext. 1216 or emailing propertymaintenance@emersonnj.org. Pet owners are also reminded to curb and clean up after their dogs.
Upcoming Dates at a Glance
- Saturday, Aug. 30: Last day to pay 3rd-quarter property taxes without penalty.
- Monday, Sept. 1 (Labor Day): Mixed garden debris collection.
- Tuesday, Sept. 2, 7:30 p.m.: Rescheduled Governing Body meeting [here’s the agenda].
- Thursday, Sept. 4: Emerson schools reopen. Please drive carefully.
- Saturday, Sept. 6, 9 a.m.–3 p.m.: Bergen County Utilities Authority Household Hazardous Waste Collection at Campgaw in Mahwah.
- Thursday, Sept. 11: Next Senior Club meeting.
- Tuesday, Sept. 16, 7:30 p.m.: Groundbreaking for Veterans Housing Project Phase 2 (daytime) and NJDEP deer presentation (evening).
- Thursday, Sept. 18: Bergen County Senior Picnic.
- Wednesday, Oct. 1: Bergen County Clerk’s Satellite Office in Emerson.
- Saturday, Oct. 4: Emerson Townwide Garage Sale.
- Sunday, Oct. 19: Emerson Fall Harvest Festival.
- Saturday, Nov. 1: Emerson Free Paper Shredding & Styrofoam Recycling Day.
- Early 2026: Legalized Games of Chance Control Commission presentation for organizations hosting raffles and bingo.
Plans also include scheduling the MVC Mobile Unit to help residents obtain Real IDs and hosting the NJ Division of Taxation Office to expand participation in state property tax relief programs.