September 16, 2025 Council Meeting

Sep 18

Below you will find a summary of the main points from the September 2025 Council Meeting. The full meeting is available to watch by clicking here.

The council meeting opened with Deputy Mayor Kerr presiding, as both Mayor Landis and Councilwoman Baumgartner were absent. The evening began with a proclamation recognizing the 40th anniversary of the New Jersey Botanical Garden.

Special Improvement District Presentation

There was a presentation on the Special Improvement District (SID) presentation led by Kristen Holten, David Edwab, and Christine Burger. They emphasized the importance of shopping and dining locally, positioning Ringwood as a destination for outdoor activities, and pursuing thoughtful, long-term growth for the borough’s downtown areas. They noted that revitalized commercial zones could serve as community gathering places and boost tax revenues. The SID has already achieved several organizational milestones, including securing 501(c)(3) nonprofit status, formally establishing its board of directors, and meeting the regulatory requirements to become an official entity.

Council Updates

Plans to update the Fieldstone shopping center have been reviewed by the Borough Manager via Zoom, however no timeline, final plan, or tax incentive details have been disclosed.

The Borough Manager reported that a new crosswalk will soon be installed on Skyline Drive, and a speed sign will be placed there beginning September 17.

The Department of Public Works recently collected 165 bags of garbage while clearing county roads.

The Recreation Department announced a number of upcoming activities at the community center, including line dancing, Pilates classes, youth basketball programs, and a senior harvest festival dinner dance scheduled for November 7. A youth hip hop class and registration for travel basketball are also underway. Additional town events include the annual “Trunk or Treat” near the library on October 25 and a town-wide yard sale on September 27–28, with maps available in advance at Borough Hall and the library.

James Hahn was appointed to the Board of Adjustment to serve through the end of 2026.

Councilman Kiraly is drafting an ordinance regulating e-bikes, which will be presented in the near future. We hope that this is passed as soon as possible so the local police have the tools neccesary to keep our kids and roads safe!

Final Note

The weekend forecast looks great — a wonderful time to visit our local treasure, the New Jersey Botanical Garden, as it celebrates its 40th anniversary. Enjoy the Fall Foliage!