The Hillsdale Borough Council moved quickly through its Dec. 2 agenda, unanimously approving a slate of resolutions that included returning unused escrow funds, confirming support for Community Development Block Grant projects, authorizing professional service agreements, and issuing several tax overpayment refunds.
The governing body met after an executive session on personnel, police department matters, and affordable housing.
Opposition to S-4736
Among the evening’s actions, the council unanimously adopted Resolution 25285, formally opposing state bill S-4736, which would allow religious and nonprofit organizations to convert certain properties into inclusionary developments with only 20% affordable units and 80% market-rate units.
Council members said the proposal would undermine local planning authority by allowing increased height and density without going through the municipal zoning process.
The resolution notes that Hillsdale has already filed its Fourth Round Housing Element and Fair Share Plan and has mediated its obligations through the state’s Affordable Housing Dispute Resolution Program. Officials argued the bill would complicate compliance efforts and erode the municipal master plan, which is updated at significant cost and community input.
The resolution urges the Legislature to defeat S-4736 and forwards the borough’s position to Sen. Holly Schepisi, Assembly members Robert Auth and John Azzariti, Gov. Phil Murphy, Gov.-elect Mikie Sherrill, and the New Jersey State League of Municipalities.
Other resolutions approved
All items on the consent agenda — Resolutions 25283 through 25290 — passed without dissent. Actions included:
- Return of unused escrow funds
- Endorsement of Community Development projects as required by the Bergen County Community Development program
- Award of a non-fair-and-open contract to Tyco Animal Control for animal control services
- Award of a non-fair-and-open contract to Whalen and Ives, Inc. for HVAC repairs, supplies, and services
- Refunds of tax overpayments, including one specific to 234 Paul Court
- Authorization of an affidavit of discharge of tax lien
New volunteer firefighters welcomed
Mayor Michael Sheinfield administered the oath of office to new members of the Hillsdale Volunteer Fire Department. New cadets include Jack Najarian and Mason Peterson, and Jonathan Cariddi joins as a new member.
Reports and updates
Council heard November reports from the borough engineer, police department, and DPW, as well as the October Fire Department report. Committee liaisons provided brief updates on ongoing matters. (See related story by Michael Olohan: Memorial Park field work ongoing; borough promoting local business.)
The next meeting of the mayor and council is scheduled for Tuesday, Dec. 9, at 7 p.m.