Paramus public meetings in 2021
141 substantive meetings from 2021, with official agendas or minutes and plain-English summaries.
Board of Adjustment
The Board of Adjustment will hold public hearings for residential and commercial applications. The body is reviewing requests for a patio variance and site modifications for a business, as well as a proposal for a new storage facility.
- Docket No. 7148: Proposal to construct a four-story self-storage facility at 750 Route 17 North
- Docket No. 7142-G: Request to install emergency generator, electric car charger, and lighting at 331 & 341 Route 17
- Docket No. 7168: Request to retain an 18 by 70 foot raised patio at 187 Denver Road
- Resolutions for Dockets 7171, 7170, 7167, and 7166
Mayor & Council
The Paramus Mayor and Council will hold a public meeting on December 21, 2021, to consider a range of items including police promotions, several ordinance introductions, and resolutions for tax refunds, settlements, and shared service agreements. The agenda also includes a closed session for pending litigation.
- Police promotions: John Devine to Captain, Glenn Pagano, Michael Cebulski, Thomas Schroeder to Detective Lieutenant, Elliott Colon to Patrol Lieutenant, and others
- Ordinances on introduction: amendments to sign regulations, salary and compensation, vehicle and traffic schedules, and firewood processor requirements
- Resolutions to approve tax appeal settlements for Paramus Park Shopping Center and ALX of Paramus (IKEA)
- Resolution authorizing sick time payout of $30,944.99 to Anna Ohlendorf
- Resolution accepting Boswell Engineering proposal for $97,200 for Forest Avenue and Spring Valley Road intersection improvements
The Paramus Mayor and Council approved a resolution supporting 11th Colony, LLC as the operator of a medicinal cannabis dispensary in the borough by a 4-3 vote. The council also approved a global settlement of pending litigation involving Mayor LaBarbiera and Councilman Vartolone, with a 3-0-2 vote. Several ordinances were adopted, including amendments to sign regulations, salaries, and job descriptions. The meeting included a consent agenda with numerous resolutions, including appointments, shared service agreements, and a sick time payout.
- Approved resolution supporting 11th Colony, LLC as medicinal cannabis dispensary operator (4-3)
- Authorized global settlement of litigation involving Mayor LaBarbiera and Councilman Vartolone (3-0-2)
- Adopted Ordinance 2021-51 amending sign regulations (6-0)
- Adopted Ordinance 2021-52 amending salaries and compensation (6-0)
- Adopted Ordinance 2021-53 amending sign regulations (6-0)
- Adopted Ordinance 2021-54 creating new title for Public Health Supv Asst (6-0)
- Adopted Ordinance 2021-55 creating new title for Asst Dir Park Maintenance (6-0)
- Adopted Ordinance 2021-56 repealing and replacing vehicle and traffic schedules (6-0)
🗳️ How they voted — 1 divided vote
Board of Health
The Paramus Board of Health is holding its regular December 2021 meeting, where members will approve minutes, receive reports from the Health Officer and staff, and discuss unfinished business including the 2022 meeting schedule and member term expirations. New business includes setting the January 2022 meeting and reorganization date, and discussing the 2022 operating budget. The meeting also includes a public comment period and consideration of pending licenses and permits.
- Discuss 2022 Board of Health meeting schedule
- Discuss Board of Health member term expirations
- Set date for January 2022 meeting and reorganization
- Discuss 2022 operating budget
- Licenses and permits pending approval
The Paramus Board of Health approved the November Health Officer's report and staff reports, and approved multiple license resolutions for restaurants, food establishments, beauty/nail salons, e-cigarettes, and vending machines. The board also discussed COVID-19 protocols, including a mask mandate for borough employees and testing arrangements, and noted upcoming board member replacements.
- Approved November 22, 2021 meeting minutes
- Approved Health Officer's report for November
- Approved staff reports for November
- Approved Restaurant Licenses Resolution 21-11-1
- Approved Food Establishment Licenses Resolution 21-11-2
- Approved Beauty/Nail Salon Licenses Resolution 21-11-3
- Approved e-Cigarette License Resolution 21-11-4
- Approved Vending Machine Licenses Resolution 21-11-5
Planning Board
The Paramus Planning Board is holding a virtual special public hearing to review two proposed ordinances amending the borough's sign regulations and to consider an application for an emergency generator and stairwell enclosure at 66 Route 17. The meeting includes public comment opportunities and standard procedural items.
- Review of Ordinance No. 2021-51 amending sign standards for specific uses
- Review of Ordinance No. 2021-53 amending sign rules and regulations
- Application by Gross Realty Associates, LLC for emergency generator and stairwell enclosure at 66 Route 17, Block 1208, Lot 12
- Approval of minutes from December 2, 2021
- Approved vouchers to be paid
The Paramus Planning Board approved Resolution 2021-23 for Gross Realty Associates, LLC with a 4-0 vote. The board also voted 7-0 to send recommendations to the Mayor and Council on proposed sign ordinance amendments (Ordinances 2021-51 and 2021-53). A zoning change request for the Orange Lantern property was received and referred to the planner for review. The board approved vouchers and adopted minutes from the December 2, 2021 meeting.
- Approved Resolution 2021-23 for Gross Realty Associates, LLC (4-0)
- Approved sending recommendations on sign ordinances 2021-51 and 2021-53 to Mayor and Council (7-0)
- Referred Orange Lantern zoning change request (HCC2 to HCC) to planner for review
- Approved vouchers to be paid (7-0)
- Adopted minutes from December 2, 2021 meeting (4-0)
Golf Commission
The Golf Commission will review the November finance report and the General Manager's report on continuing education. The commission will also discuss ongoing business regarding the restaurant and online tee times.
- Approval of November 9th meeting minutes
- Review of November finance report
- Discussion of restaurant and online tee times
Environmental Commission
The Paramus Environmental Commission is meeting to discuss old and new business, including requests for exemptions from Ordinance 19-16 regulating retail plastic bags and polystyrene foam, continued discussions on a council liaison, planning board representative, and farmers market, and a polystyrene drive letter to Duck Donuts. They will also consider returning to in-person meetings for 2022.
- Ordinance 19-16 exemptions (Nicole Smith)
- Polystyrene drive letter to Duck Donuts
- Continued discussion of Farmers Market
- Return to in-person meetings for 2022
The Paramus Environmental Commission met virtually and approved the November minutes. Mark Cristaldi was approved as Chairperson for the vacant seat. The commission also discussed plans for a Styrofoam drive on January 8, 2022, and considered changes to the farmers market, including renaming it 'Paramus Market' if no farm change occurs.
- Approved November minutes (all in favor)
- Approved Mark Cristaldi as Chairperson (all in favor)
- Adjourned meeting at 9:20 PM (all in favor)
Board of Adjustment
The Board of Adjustment will hold public hearings regarding residential and commercial land-use applications. The body will consider requests for zoning variances and site plans for properties on Denver Road and Route 17.
- 750 Route 17 North: Proposal to remove existing structures and build a four-story self-storage facility
- 331 & 341 Route 17: Request to install emergency generator, modify bollards, electric car charger, and site lighting
- 187 Denver Road: Request to retain an 18 by 70 foot raised patio constructed without permits
- Resolutions for Dockets 7171 (Salvalani), 7170 (Chan), 7167 (Talarico), and 7166 (Sciglitano)
Recreation Commission
The Paramus Recreation Commission is holding a regular public meeting to discuss and potentially approve various recreation matters. The agenda includes public comments, finance approvals, and reports from the director and assistant directors, covering topics such as the 2022 Coach of the Year nominations, updated COVID guidelines, and updates on lacrosse, football, basketball, and other programs.
- Coach of the Year 2022 nominations: Scott Jacobs, Joe Mecca
- Updated COVID guidelines discussion
- Lacrosse program update
- Football league discussion with Meadowlands towns (Elmwood Park, New Milford, Saddle Brook, Hasbrouck Heights, Wood-Ridge, Manchester)
- Travel basketball tournaments and games at Prudential and Rutgers
Shade Tree & Parks Commission
The Shade Tree & Parks Commission met to review the Superintendent's report on tree preservation releases at 119 Schimmel Street and 624 Alberta Drive, along with PSEG trimming and fall planting. The Assistant Superintendent presented year-end reports for Tree City USA and the Urban and Community Forestry program, as well as an update on the 100th anniversary.
- Tree preservation release for 119 Schimmel Street
- Tree preservation release for 624 Alberta Drive
- PSEG trimming authorization
- Fall tree planting and equipment review
- Year-end reports for Tree City USA and Urban and Community Forestry
The Shade Tree & Parks Commission approved a tree preservation release for 395 Chestnut Street and voted to trim rather than remove locust trees at 140 Route 17. They also authorized payment of bills and discussed PSEG trimming plans, tree delivery delays, and the emerald ash borer plan. No public comments were made.
- Approved tree preservation release for 395 Chestnut Street (all in favor)
- Voted to trim, not remove, locust trees at 140 Route 17 (all in favor)
- Authorized payment of bills (all in favor)
- Approved minutes from previous meeting (all in favor)
Mayor & Council
The Paramus Mayor and Council will hold a public meeting on December 7, 2021, to consider several ordinances, resolutions, and reports. Key items include introducing ordinances on salaries, signs, and job titles, as well as final adoption of fee and zoning amendments. The council will also vote on promotions, appointments, and grant applications for road improvements.
- Ordinance 2021-52 amends salary ordinance for collective bargaining agreement 2020-2022
- Ordinance 2021-56 repeals and replaces traffic schedule 419-59
- Resolutions 21-12-741 to 21-12-744 authorize promotions of four senior office clerks with salaries from $49,011 to $56,413
- Resolution 21-12-722 and 21-12-723 authorize grant applications for Forest Ave and Spring Valley Road intersection improvements
- Resolution 21-12-725 accepts Boswell Engineering proposal for $17,500 for Trinity Court improvements
The Paramus Mayor and Council approved six ordinances on introduction and two on final passage, including salary and zoning amendments. They also adopted a consent agenda with over 30 resolutions covering payments, tax refunds, grant applications, personnel appointments, and promotions. Ordinance 2021-51 was pulled from the agenda and will be finalized on December 21, 2021.
- Approved Ordinance 2021-52 amending salaries and compensation (4-0)
- Approved Ordinance 2021-53 amending sign regulations (4-0)
- Approved Ordinance 2021-54 creating Public Health Supervisor Assistant title (4-0)
- Approved Ordinance 2021-55 creating Assistant Director of Park Maintenance title (4-0)
- Approved Ordinance 2021-56 repealing/replacing vehicles and traffic schedule (4-0)
- Approved Ordinance 2021-57 amending firewood processor requirements (4-0)
- Approved Ordinance 2021-49 amending fees chapter (4-0)
- Approved Ordinance 2021-50 amending zoning chapter (4-0)
🗳️ How they voted (18 roll-call votes)
Planning Board
The Paramus Planning Board will hold a virtual public hearing on December 2, 2021, to consider several applications, including a minor site plan and variance for 68 Route 17N, an emergency generator and stairwell enclosure at 66 Route 17, and a preliminary and final site plan for a mixed-use building with a soil movement permit on From Road. The board will also review an ordinance amending pool patio setbacks. The meeting is open to the public via Webex or phone.
- 70-72 Route 17N, LLC. - 68 Route 17N, Block 1208, Lot 15 - Minor Site Plan & Variance
- Gross Realty Associates, LLC. - 66 Route 17, Suite 900, Block 1208, Lot 12 - Emergency Generator-Stairwell Enclosure
- GCGS Associates, LLC. - From Road, Block 5304, Lot 2 - Preliminary and Final Site Plan-Mixed Use Building-Soil Movement Permit (carried from 6.17.21 and 10.7.21 meetings)
- Review of Mayor and Council Ordinance No. 2021-50, amending Borough Code Chapter 429, Part II, Pool Patio Setbacks
The Paramus Planning Board approved Resolution 2021-22 for 70-72 Route 17N, LLC, and approved the amended site plan for Gross Realty Associates, LLC, for a generator and stairwell enclosure at 66 Route 17N, with a height variance. The board denied the application from GCGS Associates, LLC, for a mixed-use building on From Road, which sought relief from curb cut width requirements. The board also reviewed and agreed with Mayor and Council Ordinance No. 2021-50 regarding pool patio setbacks, and approved vouchers and minutes from the November 11, 2021 meeting.
- Approved Resolution 2021-22 for 70-72 Route 17N, LLC (6-0).
- Denied GCGS Associates, LLC's preliminary and final site plan for a mixed-use building on From Road (4-0-1).
- Approved Gross Realty Associates, LLC's amended site plan for a generator and stairwell enclosure at 66 Route 17N, including a height variance (5-0).
- Approved the acting board attorney to report recommendations on Ordinance No. 2021-50 regarding pool patio setbacks (5-0).
- Approved vouchers to be paid (5-0).
- Adopted minutes from the November 11, 2021 meeting (3-0).
Mayor & Council
The Mayor and Council will discuss the 2021 Best Practices Inventory Online Platform. The agenda includes several ordinances on introduction regarding zoning, signs, and fees, as well as a final reading for a redevelopment plan amendment.
- Ordinance 2021-48: Amending the redevelopment plan for Nursery Properties
- Ordinance 2021-50: Amending zoning regulations
- Ordinance 2021-51: Amending sign rules and regulations
- Resolution 21-11-698: Releasing $9,521.56 in engineering escrow to Countrywide Paving
- Resolution 21-11-709: Promoting Douglass Ehrenberg to Captain at $210,042.00 annually
The Paramus Mayor and Council introduced Ordinances 2021-49 (fees), 2021-50 (zoning), and 2021-51 (signs), and adopted on final reading Ordinances 2021-47 (swimming pool fees) and 2021-48 (redevelopment plan for Nursery Properties). They also approved a police officer step-up, a probationary firefighter, and a consent agenda of resolutions including payments, appointments, and agreements. No public comments were made during the meeting.
- Introduced Ordinance 2021-49 to amend Chapter A460 (Fees) - motion carried 6-0
- Introduced Ordinance 2021-50 to amend Chapter 429 (Zoning) - motion carried 6-0
- Introduced Ordinance 2021-51 to amend Chapter 367 (Signs) - motion carried 6-0
- Adopted Ordinance 2021-47 on final reading (swimming pool fees) - motion carried 6-0
- Adopted Ordinance 2021-48 on final reading (redevelopment plan for Nursery Properties) - motion carried 6-0
- Approved Resolution 21-11-708: step-up to Police Officer Step 2 at $57,524/year - motion carried 5-0-1 (DiPiazza abstained)
- Approved Resolution 21-11-711: accepted David Gilels as probationary firefighter - motion carried 6-0
- Adopted consent agenda (Resolutions 21-11-696 through 21-11-710, excluding 708) - motion carried 6-0
🗳️ How they voted (10 roll-call votes)
Board of Health
The Paramus Board of Health is holding its regular November 2021 meeting. The board will approve prior meeting minutes, receive the Health Officer's October 2021 report, and consider staff reports. New business includes the Paramus Centennial Celebration Project, a retired Health Officer program, and a resignation.
- Approval of October 25, 2021 meeting minutes
- Health Officer's October 2021 report
- Staff reports for June-September 2021
- New business: Paramus Centennial Celebration Project
- VPOC resignation of Anastasia Maltsev
Recreation Commission
The Paramus Recreation Commission is holding a regular public meeting to discuss and potentially approve various recreation programs and financial matters. The agenda includes reports from the Director, Assistant Director, and Recreation Leader, covering travel and in-town basketball, wrestling, facilities, and committee updates. Public comment and closed session are also scheduled.
- Travel basketball tryouts underway, practices begin 11/19 and 11/20
- In-town basketball evaluations start 11/30, draft 12/7 & 12/9
- Wrestling season starts November 30, with quad matches on 1/15/22 and 2/5/22
- Finance approval and October 2021 meeting minutes approval on agenda
- Coach of the Year nominations for 2022 (2020, 2021) discussed
The Paramus Recreation Commission met on November 17, 2021, and unanimously approved the October 2021 meeting minutes and the current financial report. The commission also approved Commissioner Lepselter's nomination of Joe Mecca for Coach of the Year. No other formal decisions were made; the meeting consisted of reports and updates.
- Approved October 2021 meeting minutes (unanimous)
- Approved current financial report (unanimous)
- Approved Joe Mecca as Coach of the Year (unanimous)
Planning Board
The Paramus Planning Board is holding a special virtual public hearing to review a revised ordinance amending the redevelopment plan for various nursery sites. The board will also consider minor subdivision applications for two properties, including an affordable housing project. Public participation is available online or by phone.
- Review of revised Mayor and Council Ordinance 2021-48 amending the Redevelopment Plan for nursery sites
- Minor subdivision application by Paramus Affordable Housing Corporation for Benke Senior Housing at 200 Garden State Plaza Blvd, Block 212, Lot 8
- Minor subdivision plan by ACF Paramus Plaza, LLC for 545 Route 17 South, Block 5103, Lot 1
- Approval of minutes from November 4, 2021 meeting
- Approval of vouchers to be paid
The Paramus Planning Board unanimously approved Resolution 2021-20 for the Behnke Senior Housing affordable housing project and Resolution 2021-21 for ACF Paramus Plaza, LLC, both with 5-0 votes. The board also reviewed Ordinance 2021-40, which amends the redevelopment plan for two nursery sites (Joy's Farm and former Revicki Farms), and voted 5-0 to send a report with recommendations to the Mayor and Council. Vouchers and minutes from October 21st were approved unanimously.
- Approved Resolution 2021-20 for Paramus Affordable Housing Behnke Senior Housing (5-0)
- Approved Resolution 2021-21 for ACF Paramus Plaza, LLC (5-0)
- Approved sending report to Mayor and Council on Ordinance 2021-40 amendments (5-0)
- Approved vouchers to be paid (6-0)
- Adopted minutes from October 21st, 2021 meeting (6-0)
Shade Tree & Parks Commission
The commission is reviewing reports from the Superintendent and Assistant Superintendent. Discussions include tree preservation at 395 Chestnut Street and the status of the 'Roots in the Lawn' program.
- Tree preservation release for PSEG trimming at 395 Chestnut Street
- Completion of 'Roots in the Lawn' program at 17 locations
- Update on Paramus' 100th Celebration historical data request
- Progress report on the Sidewalk Program
- Authorization to pay bills
The commission approved a tree preservation release for 80 Birchwood Road despite ST-1 violations on file, with the tree already removed. PSEG's trimming crews were barred from Prospect Street after trimming without notification, and the borough is working with PSEG on permits for future work. The commission also approved paying bills and last month's minutes. No public comment was heard, and the phone was not accessible for call-in.
- Approved tree preservation release for 80 Birchwood Road (all in favor)
- Approved last month's meeting minutes (all in favor)
- Approved authorization to pay bills (all in favor)
- Barred PSEG trimming crew from Prospect Street after unauthorized trimming
- Adjourned meeting (all in favor)
Board of Adjustment
The Paramus Board of Adjustment will hold a public hearing on a commercial application by 750 Paramus LLC to build a four-story self-storage facility at 750 Route 17 N, which requires multiple variances. The board will also consider resolutions for four other dockets, approve minutes, and handle bills in closed session.
- Public hearing for Docket 7148: 4-story self-storage at 750 Route 17 N, with variances for height (54.77 ft vs 36 ft), coverage (32.4% vs 25%), and parking in front yard
- Proposed curb cut width 52.8 ft (max 30 ft) and distance between curb cuts 43 ft (min 50 ft)
- Request for wall sign area of 180 SF each (max 100 SF) and internal illumination for free-standing sign
- Resolutions for Dockets 7170, 7166, 7167, 7171
- Closed session and approval of October 28, 2021 minutes
Pool Commission
The Paramus Municipal Pool Commission is meeting to approve minutes, hear reports, and discuss the 2022 pool rates, which were first introduced at a previous council meeting. The commission will also consider paying a $13,500 bill to Nautilus Swimming Pools.
- 2022 pool rates introduced as ordinance
- Payment of $13,500 to Nautilus Swimming Pools
- Engineer's report on pump room and pool leak
- Buildings & Grounds report on winterization
Mayor & Council
The Paramus Mayor and Council will hold a public meeting to consider ordinances amending swimming pool fees, the redevelopment plan for nursery properties, garage sales, a property sale, and a sewer pump station maintenance fee. They will also vote on resolutions including a $96,722.40 sick time payout, several appointments, and a golf cart rental contract. The agenda includes discussion items on Joy Farms and Revicki Farms, and a closed session for pending litigation.
- Ordinance 2021-48 amending the redevelopment plan for nursery properties (multiple blocks/lots)
- Resolution 21-11-678 authorizing a sick time payout of $96,722.40 to John Damato
- Resolution 21-11-676 awarding RFP for 2021 motorized golf cart rentals to KLBL, Inc. d/b/a Vic Gerard Golf Cars
- Ordinance 2021-46 establishing a sanitary sewer pump station maintenance fee for non-tax-exempt properties
- Resolution 21-11-673 endorsing a CDBG application for the 200 Robin Road headquarters reroof project
The Paramus Mayor and Council introduced Ordinance 2021-48, amending the redevelopment plan for multiple nursery properties, and also introduced a swimming pool fee amendment. They adopted three ordinances on final reading, including garage sale regulations, a property sale, and a sewer pump station fee. All votes were 5-0 with Councilwoman Tedesco-Santos absent.
- Introduced Ordinance 2021-48 amending redevelopment plan for nursery properties (5-0)
- Introduced Ordinance 2021-47 amending swimming pool fees (5-0)
- Adopted Ordinance 2021-44 amending garage sale regulations (5-0)
- Adopted Ordinance 2021-45 authorizing sale of Block 212 Lot 8 (5-0)
- Adopted Ordinance 2021-46 establishing sanitary sewer pump station maintenance fee (5-0)
- Approved consent agenda including resolutions 21-11-672 through 21-11-693 (5-0)
- Approved Camp Towanda reunion at Garden State Plaza parking lot
- Closed meeting to discuss pending Pacific Outdoor billboard litigation (5-0)
🗳️ How they voted (7 roll-call votes)
Golf Commission
The Paramus Golf Commission is holding its regular monthly meeting. The agenda includes approval of the October minutes, a finance report, and reports from the General Manager and Superintendent. Under old business, the commission will discuss the restaurant, online tee times, and the golf cart bid; under new business, it will discuss evening and weekday leagues, the capital restaurant, and fees. The meeting is open to the public with a 5-minute speaking limit per person.
- Discussion of restaurant operations and capital restaurant
- Review of online tee times system
- Golf cart bid discussion
- Consideration of evening and weekday leagues
- Review of fees
The Paramus Golf Commission voted unanimously to recommend that borough administration void the restaurant vendor's contract due to default (unpaid rent for several months). The commission also awarded the golf cart bid to Club Car, the current vendor, and discussed various operational updates, including online tee time glitches and leaf cleanup. No other formal decisions were made; most other items were informational or scheduled for future review.
- Recommended voiding restaurant vendor contract on default (unanimous)
- Awarded golf cart bid to Club Car (current vendor)
- Rescheduled December meeting to December 14th
- Approved minutes from October 5th meeting
Environmental Commission
The Paramus Environmental Commission is meeting via Zoom to handle routine business and discuss ongoing environmental initiatives. Key items include requests for exemptions to Ordinance 19-16 regulating retail plastic bags and polystyrene foam, as well as new business on a polystyrene drive, a letter to doughnut shops, and the state ban on plastic straws and styrofoam.
- Ordinance 19-16 retail plastic bag and polystyrene foam exemption requests (Nicole Smith)
- Polystyrene drive letter to Duck Donuts and Krispy Kreme
- Discussion of NJ ban on plastic straws and styrofoam
- Styrofoam Date artwork for banner
- Farmers market discussion
The Paramus Environmental Commission met virtually on November 8, 2021, and approved the October minutes unanimously. No substantive decisions were made; the meeting focused on updates and discussions, including a plastic bag ordinance initiative, a Styrofoam drive banner, and a farmers market ideas list.
- Approved October minutes (all in favor)
- Discussed plastic bag ordinance with Bergen County HUB
- Discussed Styrofoam drive banner artwork approval
- Discussed farmers market items and ideas list
- Discussed book drop follow-up
Planning Board
The November 4, 2021, Planning Board meeting was cancelled. A special meeting was rescheduled for November 11, 2021.
- BJ’s Wholesale Club-30 Route 17 fueling station site plan and signage carried to 12/2/21
- GCGS Associates, LLC mixed use building at From Road carried to 12/2/21
Board of Adjustment
The Paramus Board of Adjustment will hold public hearings on six residential applications, each seeking variances for unpermitted or nonconforming structures such as patios, fences, and an outdoor kitchen. One commercial application is postponed to November 10, 2021. The board will also consider a resolution for Docket No. 7160.
- 187 Denver Road: retain 18x70 ft raised patio built without permits (side yard variances)
- 328 Edston Way: retain outdoor kitchen, 8-ft walkway, and construct inground pool (setback and impervious coverage variances)
- 207 Lawrence Drive: 6-ft fence in front yard, corner lot (3-ft permitted)
- 243 Virginia Court: enclose patio into 8x18 ft three-season room (rear yard setback 21 ft vs 30 ft required)
- 750 Route 17 N: commercial application postponed to Nov 10, 2021
Recreation Commission
The Paramus Recreation Commission is holding its regular public meeting to hear public comments, approve September minutes and finances, and receive reports from the director and assistant director. Key discussion items include updates on football and cheerleading, travel basketball tryouts, coaching requirements, and the department's 100-year celebration.
- Closed session on Junior Football
- Finance approval
- Travel basketball tryouts week of November 15th
- Coaching requirement: Child Abuse Awareness Training
- Coach of the Year for 2022 (covering 2020, 2021)
The Paramus Recreation Commission met on October 26, 2021, and approved the September 2021 minutes and the current financial report unanimously. The commission also discussed the purchase of a 72-inch deck mower and Ventrac tractor with capital funding, and the addition of new coaching requirements. No other formal decisions were made; the meeting was largely informational.
- Approved September 2021 meeting minutes (unanimous)
- Approved current financial report (unanimous)
- Ordered 72-inch deck mower and Ventrac tractor with capital funding (discussed, no formal vote recorded)
Mayor & Council
The Paramus Mayor and Council will hold a public meeting to discuss and vote on several items, including a proposed amendment to the Joy Farm redevelopment plan, three ordinances on introduction, and a consent agenda with numerous resolutions. The meeting also includes public comments and reports from officials.
- Discussion of Joy Farm Redevelopment Plan Amendment
- Ordinance 2021-44 amending garage sale regulations
- Ordinance 2021-45 authorizing sale of Block 212 Lot 8
- Ordinance 2021-46 establishing sanitary sewer pump station maintenance fee
- Resolution 21-10-648 authorizing police acquisition of federal 1033 program equipment
The Paramus Mayor and Council approved three ordinances on introduction, including amendments to garage sale regulations, sale of real property, and a sanitary sewer pump station maintenance fee. They also adopted a consent agenda containing numerous resolutions, including the award of the Midland Avenue improvements bid to DLS Contracting. The meeting included a presentation of a $177,344 check from the L.E.A.D. Carnival and a public comment from a resident about traffic and garbage issues on Pleasant Avenue.
- Approved ordinance 2021-44 amending garage sale regulations (4-0)
- Approved ordinance 2021-45 authorizing sale of real property Block 212 Lot 8 (4-0)
- Approved ordinance 2021-46 amending sewer pump station maintenance fee (4-0)
- Adopted consent agenda with resolutions 21-10-645 through 21-10-669 (4-0)
- Awarded 2021 Improvements to Midland Avenue bid to DLS Contracting (in consent agenda)
- Approved Westfield Garden State Plaza Big Santa installation and removal dates
- Approved permission to issue 2022 RFQ
- Approved appointments and promotions as listed in resolutions
🗳️ How they voted (6 roll-call votes)
Board of Health
The Paramus Board of Health is holding its regular October 2021 meeting, where members will vote on the minutes from June 28, 2021, and receive the Health Officer's September 2021 report. They will also approve staff reports for June-September 2021, discuss the P/T Office Clerk position and Vulnerable Population Outreach Coordinator update, and consider licenses and permits pending approval for that period. The meeting includes public comment and discussion of other public health matters.
- Approval of minutes from June 28, 2021
- Health Officer's September 2021 report
- Staff reports for June-September 2021 (Environmental, Deputy Registrar's, Nurses' & Health Education)
- Update on Charles Lorber Memorial Scholarship recipients
- Licenses & permits pending approval (June-September 2021)
The Paramus Board of Health approved the September Health Officer's report and multiple license resolutions for food establishments, restaurants, e-cigarettes, beauty/nail salons, swimming pools, and body art. The board also discussed a COVID-19 testing site at the Paramus Municipal Pool and booster shot availability, but took no formal action on these items. No members of the public attended the meeting.
- Approved minutes of June 28, 2021 meeting
- Approved Health Officer's report for September
- Approved Food Establishment Licenses (Appendix A-FH 112591 through A-FH 112605 and A-FH 112612 through A-FH 112617)
- Approved Restaurant Licenses (Appendix A-FH 112609 through A-FH 112599)
- Approved e-Cigarette License (Appendix G-EC 112603)
- Approved Beauty/Nail Salon Licenses (Appendix I-BNS 11260 through I-BNS 112601 and I-BNS 112616 through I-BNS 112618)
- Approved Swimming Pool License (Appendix D-SF 112593)
- Approved Body Art Licenses (F-BA 112613 through F-BA 112611)
Planning Board
The Paramus Planning Board will hold a virtual public hearing on October 21, 2021, to consider several applications, including a minor subdivision for senior housing, a minor subdivision and site plan for a commercial property, a minor site plan with variance, and a carried-over minor subdivision. The meeting will be conducted online and by phone, with public participation allowed.
- Paramus Affordable Housing Corporation – Behnke Senior Housing – 200 Garden State Plaza Blvd – minor subdivision and site plan
- ACF Paramus Plaza, LLC – 545 Route 17 South – minor subdivision plan and zoning review
- 70-72 Route 17N, LLC – 68 Route 17N – minor site plan and variance, including soil moving plan
- 113-117 Midland Avenue, LLC – 113-117 Midland Avenue – minor subdivision (carried from 10.7.21 meeting)
- LPM-407-411 Sette Drive – amended site plan, parking variance, and signage
The Paramus Planning Board approved three minor subdivisions and a minor site plan with a parking variance. The board also approved a resolution, vouchers, and minutes from the previous meeting. One application was carried to the December 2nd meeting.
- Approved Resolution 2021-19 (5-0)
- Approved minor subdivision for Paramus Affordable Housing Corporation (Behnke Senior Housing) (7-0)
- Approved minor subdivision for ACF Paramus Plaza, LLC (545 Route 17) (7-0)
- Approved minor subdivision for 113-117 Midland Avenue, LLC (carried to Dec. 2 meeting)
- Approved minor site plan and parking variance for 70-72 Route 17N, LLC (6-0)
- Approved vouchers to be paid (6-0)
- Adopted minutes from October 7, 2021 meeting (6-0)
Environmental Commission
The Paramus Environmental Commission is meeting to discuss ongoing business, including requests for exemptions to Ordinance 19-16 regulating retail plastic bags and polystyrene foam, as well as planning for a future polystyrene drive and 2022 events. The agenda is largely routine, with reports from borough council and planning board representatives, and no major new decisions are listed.
- Ordinance 19-16 plastic bag and polystyrene foam exemption requests
- Pride in Paramus recap
- Next polystyrene drive planning
- 2022 Community Calendar discussion
- Earth Day Cleanup 2022 consideration
The Paramus Environmental Commission approved a second community cleanup day on April 23, 2022, following the success of the first event. They also discussed plans for a styrofoam drive, farmers market improvements, and a book donation bin, but no other formal votes were taken.
- Approved second community cleanup day on April 23 (all in favor)
- Approved September minutes (all in favor)
Board of Adjustment
The Board will hear a request to retain an unpermitted raised patio at 187 Denver Road. It also continues a hearing regarding a proposed four-story self-storage facility at 750 Route 17 N.
- Retain 18 by 70 foot raised patio at 187 Denver Road
- Construct four-story self-storage facility at 750 Route 17 N
- Postponement of residential application for 328 Edstan Way to October 28, 2021
Pool Commission
The Paramus Municipal Pool Commission is holding its regular meeting. The agenda is largely procedural, covering roll call, minutes approval, public comment, and committee reports. Notable business includes an update on a pump estimate from the manufacturer and discussion of a new brochure.
- Update on pump estimate from manufacturer (Old Business)
- Discussion of brochure (New Business)
- Payment of bills
- Committee reports: Buildings & Grounds, Snack Bar, Entertainment & Activities, Personnel, Web
The Paramus Municipal Pool Commission met on October 14, 2021, and unanimously approved the minutes from the September 28 meeting. No formal decisions were made on substantive items; the commission discussed correspondence, committee reports, and budget needs, including a new refrigerator for the First Aid room and ongoing repairs to the lightning detector and pole light.
- Approved minutes from 9/28/21 (unanimous)
- Adjourned meeting at 8:34 pm (unanimous)
Shade Tree & Parks Commission
The commission is reviewing a tree preservation release for 80 Birchwood Road and PSEG trimming plans for 2021-2022. The Assistant Superintendent provided updates on sidewalk and root-in-lawn programs, noting the need for a new bid as the 2017 sidewalk contract expires December 31, 2021.
- Tree preservation release for 80 Birchwood Road
- PSEG planned trimming for 2021-2022
- Sidewalk program update: 66 locations marked, 391 slabs at 147 trees
- Roots in the Lawn program: 17 locations ready, 23 locations pending hold harmless forms
- Expiration of 2017 sidewalk contract on 12/31/2021
The Shade Tree & Parks Commission denied a request from 652 East Beverwyck Place to not replace removed ash trees, reaffirming its policy to replace all removed town trees. It also approved tree preservation releases for several properties, held one preservation for 165 Stuart Street for two more years, and released all preservation for 72 Lotus Lane except for a removed maple tree. The commission approved paying bills and discussed fall planting of about 147 trees and ongoing ash tree removals.
- Denied request for no replacement trees at 652 East Beverwyck Place (all in favor)
- Approved tree preservation releases for 235 Hoppers Lane, 233 Concord Drive, 95 Benton Road, and 459 Nevada Street (all in favor)
- Held preservation for 165 Stuart Street for additional two years (all in favor)
- Released all preservation for 72 Lotus Lane except for removed maple tree (all in favor)
- Approved authorization to pay bills (all in favor)
- Approved last month's minutes (all in favor)
Mayor & Council
The Paramus Mayor and Council will hold a public meeting on October 12, 2021, to consider resolutions, ordinances, and reports. Key actions include introducing an ordinance to amend affordable housing inclusionary zoning requirements, adopting a $735,000 bond ordinance for new equipment and vehicles, and approving a settlement agreement with the African American Data & Research Institute. The agenda also includes numerous personnel appointments, step-ups, and promotions across borough departments.
- Ordinance 2021-43: amend inclusionary zoning standards (relaxation of zoning standards)
- Bond ordinance 2021-42: $735,000 for new equipment, machinery, and a vehicle
- Resolution 21-10-601: settlement with African American Data & Research Institute and Police Chief Kenneth Ehrenberg
- Resolution 21-10-603: tax refund to Home Depot USA, Inc. due to tax court appeals
- Appointments: 4 new laborers at $33,402/yr, part-time 911 operator at $14.22/hr, and multiple step-ups/promotions
The Paramus Mayor and Council approved a $735,000 bond ordinance to fund new equipment, machinery, and an automotive vehicle. The council also approved a memorandum of agreement with the PBA and multiple police promotions, including Steven Nepola to Patrol Sergeant. A series of personnel appointments, step-ups, and promotions across departments were approved in a consent agenda.
- Approved $735,000 bond ordinance for equipment and vehicle (6-0)
- Approved PBA memorandum of agreement (5-0-1, Mayor recused)
- Promoted Steven Nepola to Patrol Sergeant Step F, $157,627/yr (5-0-1)
- Approved consent agenda with 40+ resolutions including personnel actions
- Approved minutes of August 25, 2021 meeting (5-0-1)
- Pulled Ordinance 2021-43 prior to meeting
🗳️ How they voted (6 roll-call votes)
Planning Board
The Paramus Planning Board will hold a virtual public hearing on October 7, 2021, to consider several applications, including site plans, subdivisions, variances, and soil movement permits. The board will also review a request to carry an application to a later meeting. The agenda includes both new and old business, as well as approval of minutes and vouchers.
- Andy Property Investment, LLC – 171 Midwood Road – proposed indoor swimming pool
- Dynasty Realty, LLC – 140 N. Route 17 – amended and final site plans, major soil movement, variances, signage
- LPM-407-411 Sette Drive – amended site plan, parking variance, signage
- 113-117 Midland Avenue, LLC – minor subdivision
- GCGS Associates, LLC – From Road – preliminary and final site plan for mixed-use building, soil movement permit (carried from 6.17.21)
The Paramus Planning Board approved Resolution 2021-17 for Andy Property Investments and Resolution 2021-18 for Dynasty Realty. They also approved an amended site plan for LPM at 407-411 Sette Drive, adding 35 parking spots and variances for lot coverage and signage. Several other applications were carried to future meetings.
- Approved Resolution 2021-17 for Andy Property Investments (7-0)
- Approved Resolution 2021-18 for Dynasty Realty (5-0)
- Approved LPM amended site plan with parking and signage variances (6-0-1)
- Approved vouchers to be paid (7-0)
- Adopted minutes from September 23, 2021 special meeting (7-0)
- Carried A2 Enterprises application to 12.2.21 meeting
- Carried 113-117 Midland Avenue subdivision to 10.21.21 meeting
- Carried GCGS Associates site plan to 11.4.21 meeting
Golf Commission
The commission will review the September finance report and the General Manager/Superintendent report. The agenda includes discussions regarding the restaurant and online tee times.
- Approval of September 7th meeting minutes
- Review of September finance report
- Discussion on restaurant operations
- Discussion on online tee times
The Paramus Golf Commission held a regular meeting on October 5, 2021, and approved the minutes from the September 7th meeting. The commission voted to request the Borough Administrator attend the next meeting to address the restaurant's unpaid rent (only 2 of 4 months paid) and other questions. No formal decisions were made on other agenda items; discussions included online tee time policies, a slow-play league group, and trophy budgeting.
- Approved minutes from September 7th meeting (motion by Vice Chairman, seconded by Ralph Amato)
- Requested Borough Administrator attend next meeting (motion by Ralph Amato, seconded by Rob Thompson)
- Rescheduled next meeting from November 2nd to November 9th
Mayor & Council
The Mayor and Council will discuss adult-use cannabis and review several ordinances. The agenda includes a bond ordinance for municipal machinery and a redevelopment plan amendment for nursery properties.
- Ordinance 2021-42: $735,000 bond for new equipment, machinery, and an automotive vehicle
- Ordinance 2021-40: Amending redevelopment plan for nursery properties
- Resolution 21-09-584: $58,200 contract for Petruska Park engineering services
- Resolution 21-09-585: $84,000 contract for Midland Ave improvements
- Resolution 21-09-595: Amendment to redevelopment agreement with Paramus Toll LLC
The Paramus Mayor and Council approved a $735,000 bond ordinance for new equipment, machinery, and an automotive vehicle, and adopted several ordinances including amendments to the redevelopment plan for Nursery Properties and the administrative code. The council also approved a consent agenda with numerous resolutions, including engineering contracts, appointments, and tax appeal settlements. No substantive decisions were made on cannabis policy, which was only discussed.
- Approved bond ordinance 2021-42 for $735,000 (6-0)
- Adopted ordinance 2021-40 amending Nursery Properties redevelopment plan (5-0-1)
- Adopted ordinance 2021-41 amending administrative code (6-0)
- Approved consent agenda with resolutions 21-09-574 through 21-09-596 (6-0)
- Approved special event requests: Elks craft event, Just Jersey food truck festival, Whiting-Turner overnight work, Mayfair Road block party
- Approved minutes of July 21, 2021 meeting (5-0-1)
🗳️ How they voted (6 roll-call votes)
Mayor & Council
The Paramus Mayor and Council will hold a public meeting on September 29, 2021, to consider a bond ordinance for $735,000 to acquire new equipment, machinery, and an automotive vehicle. They will also vote on final adoption of two ordinances, including an amendment to the Nursery Properties redevelopment plan, and approve a consent agenda with resolutions for payments, capital budget, property sale, tax appeal settlements, and various appointments. The meeting includes public comments and reports from officials.
- Bond ordinance 2021-42: $735,000 for new equipment, machinery, and automotive vehicle
- Final adoption of ordinance 2021-40 amending Nursery Properties redevelopment plan
- Resolution 21-09-576: authorizing sale of real property not required for public purposes
- Resolution 21-09-577/578: authorizing settlement of commercial tax appeals (15 East Midland LLC, 501S17 LLC)
- Resolution 21-09-584/585: accepting Boswell Engineering proposals for Petruska Park ($58,200) and Midland Ave improvements ($84,000)
The Paramus Mayor and Council approved a $735,000 bond ordinance for new equipment and a vehicle, and passed several other ordinances and resolutions. They also approved a consent agenda with numerous resolutions, including appointments, engineering contracts, and tax appeal settlements. The meeting included public comments on towing rates and flooding, but no final decisions were made on those topics.
- Approved $735,000 bond ordinance for equipment and vehicle (6-0)
- Adopted Ordinance 2021-40 amending Nursery Properties redevelopment plan (5-0-1)
- Adopted Ordinance 2021-41 amending Administrative Code (6-0)
- Approved consent agenda with 23 resolutions (6-0)
- Approved Paramus Elks craft event on Nov 7 at 200 Route 17N
- Approved Just Jersey food truck festival at Paramus Park mall on Oct 24
- Approved Whiting-Turner overnight work at Route 4 and Bergen Town Center
- Approved block party on Mayfair Road on Oct 9
🗳️ How they voted (6 roll-call votes)
Planning Board
The Paramus Planning Board approved sending a report to the Mayor and Council recommending adoption of amended redevelopment plan for Joy's Farm property, with an exception requiring peak roofs on stand-alone assisted living facilities. The board also approved three resolutions (2021-14, 2021-15, 2021-16) with no opposition, swore in a new board member, and approved committee appointments and vouchers.
- Approved Resolution 2021-14 (Pared Motel Associates, LLC) (7-0)
- Approved Resolution 2021-15 (Yeu Entertainment, LLC) (4-0)
- Approved Resolution 2021-16 (Paramus Southbound Property, LLC) (6-0)
- Swore in new Board Member Mr. Feorenzo
- Approved sending report to Mayor and Council recommending amended redevelopment plan for Joy's Farm with peak roof exception (7-0)
- Approved Mr. Scrivanich to Sign Committee (8-0)
- Approved vouchers to be paid (7-0)
- Adopted minutes from September 2, 2021 meeting (7-0)
Pool Commission
The Paramus Municipal Pool Commission met via Zoom on September 23, 2021. The agenda includes standard procedural items such as roll call, minutes approval, and reports from the Pool Manager and Engineers. The primary substantive items involve the budget and new business discussions regarding membership rates, types, guest fees, and day pass rates.
- Discussion of Membership Rates
- Discussion of Membership Types
- Discussion of Guest Fee Rate
- Discussion of Paramus Day Pass Rate
- Review of Budget
The Paramus Municipal Pool Commission voted unanimously to approve the September 9, 2021 minutes and to adjourn. They decided to add $5 to each membership type for the upcoming season, while keeping guest fees and day pass rates the same as 2020. No new membership types were added. The meeting was brief and largely procedural, with no other substantive decisions recorded.
- Approved minutes of Sept. 9, 2021 (unanimous)
- Added $5 per membership type (no vote tally recorded)
- Kept guest fee rate same as 2020
- Kept Paramus day pass rate same as 2020
- Did not add new membership types
- Adjourned meeting (unanimous)
Recreation Commission
The Paramus Recreation Commission is holding a regular public meeting to discuss updates on football and cheerleading, field division reports, capital improvement funds, and grants, as well as upcoming programs like wrestling and travel basketball. The agenda also includes a closed session for cheer volunteers, finance and minutes approvals, and various committee reports. Most items are discussion or report items, with no major decisions or public hearings listed.
- Closed session on Cheer Volunteers
- Finance approval and August meeting minutes approval
- Capital Improvement Funds and ROID Grants/SNY Play Ball Basketball Grant
- Fall Festival on Saturday, September 25, 12:00PM-3:00PM
- Upcoming programs: Wrestling, Travel Basketball
The Paramus Recreation Commission held its regular meeting on September 22, 2021, and unanimously approved the August 2021 meeting minutes and the current financial report. The commission also received updates on fall programs, including football and cheerleading, and discussed plans for winter activities such as wrestling and basketball. No other formal decisions were made.
- Approved August 2021 meeting minutes (unanimous)
- Approved current financial report (unanimous)
Board of Health
The Paramus Board of Health is holding a regular meeting to approve minutes and staff reports, and to discuss old business including a VPOC Grant and a part-time office clerk position. New business includes flu vaccinations and a pancreatic cancer fundraiser. The meeting also includes public comment and discussion of other public health matters.
- Approval of minutes from June 28, 2021
- Review and approval of staff reports (Environmental, Deputy Registrar, Nurses)
- Discussion of VPOC Grant
- Discussion of P/T Office Clerk position
- Discussion of flu vaccinations and Pancreatic Cancer Fundraiser
Mayor & Council
The Paramus Mayor and Council will hold a public meeting with several ordinances on introduction and final adoption, including zoning changes and business license fee amendments. They will also discuss adult-use cannabis with legal counsel, consider a memorandum of agreement with the Paramus Employees Association, and vote on numerous resolutions covering payments, appointments, and contracts.
- Ordinance 2021-41 on introduction to amend administrative code
- Ordinance 2021-32 (final) amending police promotion rules (tabled previously)
- Ordinance 2021-37 (final) amending prohibited uses in zoning
- Ordinance 2021-38 (final) amending business license fees
- Resolution 21-09-570 authorizing agreement with Paramus Employees Association
The Paramus Mayor and Council held a public meeting on September 14, 2021, and approved several ordinances on final reading, including amendments to police promotion procedures (2021-32), prohibited uses in all zones (2021-37), business license fees (2021-38), and regulations for precious metals dealers (2021-39). They also introduced ordinance 2021-41 amending the administrative code. Additionally, the council approved numerous resolutions, including payments, appointments, promotions, and a developer's agreement with 162 RTE 4, LLC. The meeting included a presentation from Revicki Farms LLC regarding a redevelopment plan amendment, which was discussed but not voted on.
- Approved Ordinance 2021-32 (police promotion procedures) 5-0-1, with Mayor LaBarbiera and Councilwoman Tedesco-Santos recusing.
- Approved Ordinance 2021-37 (prohibited uses in all zones) 6-0.
- Approved Ordinance 2021-38 (business license fees) 6-0.
- Approved Ordinance 2021-39 (precious metals, gems, and secondhand goods dealers) 6-0.
- Introduced Ordinance 2021-41 (administrative code amendment) 6-0.
- Approved a consent agenda of resolutions 21-09-543 through 21-09-571, including payments, appointments, promotions, and a developer's agreement.
- Appointed Tony Feorenzo to the Planning Board and Jeff Lepselter to the Golf Commission (6-0).
- Approved minutes from May 11, May 25, June 15, and June 30, 2021 meetings.
🗳️ How they voted (11 roll-call votes)
Environmental Commission
The Paramus Environmental Commission is meeting to discuss ongoing business, including exemptions to Ordinance 19-16 regulating retail plastic bags and polystyrene foam, and to finalize plans for the Pride in Paramus town cleanup on September 25. The agenda also includes updates on the National Night Out recap, a future polystyrene drive, and a possible name change for Pride in Paramus in 2022.
- Ordinance 19-16 retail plastic bag and polystyrene foam exemption requests
- Pride in Paramus cleanup sites: Westbrook Middle School, Paramus Library/PHS, Petruska Park, Constitution Grove (Midland Ave.), Volunteer Ambulance (E. Midland), Robin Rd (off W. Century), behind Floor and Décor (A&S Drive)
- Cleanup event day schedule: 8AM at DPW, 9AM at sites, 11:30AM-12PM cleanup, 12-1PM lunch at library
- Possible donation of bento lunch boxes and face masks with Pride cleanup logo as prizes
- Discussion of name change for 'Pride in Paramus' for 2022
The Paramus Environmental Commission met virtually and approved the minutes of a special meeting. Members discussed upcoming events, including the Paramus Community Cleanup Day on 9/17/22, Earth Day on 4/30/22 (rain date 5/14/22), and a styrofoam drive on 1/8/22. Tony Landa announced he is stepping down as Chair, with members to take turns running meetings. No formal decisions were made on new business items, which were only discussed.
- Approved the minutes of the special meeting
- Scheduled Paramus Community Cleanup Day for 9/17/22
- Scheduled Earth Day for 4/30/22 with rain date 5/14/22
- Scheduled styrofoam drive for 1/8/22
- Agreed members will take turns running meetings after Tony Landa steps down as Chair
Board of Adjustment
The Paramus Board of Adjustment will hold a public hearing on a commercial application to build a four-story self-storage facility at 750 Route 17 N, with multiple variances requested. The application was continued from May 13, 2021, with revised plans submitted. The board will also consider a resolution for Docket No. 7160, approve minutes from August 12, 2021, and adjourn.
- Docket No. 7148: 750 Paramus LLC, Block 6811 Lots 1 & 2, 750 Route 17 N — remove structures, build 4-story self-storage with signage
- Variances sought: storage use not permitted, building coverage 32.4% vs 25% max, height 54.77 ft vs 36 ft/2 stories, buffer 0 ft vs 100 ft required
- Curb cut width 52.8 ft vs 30 ft max; distance between curb cuts 43 ft vs 50 ft min
- Four wall signs of 180 SF each vs 5% or 100 SF max; design waivers for access drive and parking area
- New business: resolution for Docket No. 7160 (Paramus Development); minutes from August 12, 2021
The Board of Adjustment continued the application by 750 Paramus LLC for a 4-story self-storage facility at 750 Route 17 N to October 14, 2021, after hearing revised plans and public comment. The board also approved the minutes from the August 12, 2021 meeting unanimously. No final decision was made on the storage facility.
- Continued Docket No. 7148 (750 Paramus LLC) to October 14, 2021
- Approved August 12, 2021 minutes (4-0)
Pool Commission
The Paramus Municipal Pool Commission is meeting to approve minutes, hear reports, and discuss old business, including setting rates for 2022, with specific attention to senior couple rates and guest/daily pass fees. The agenda also includes payment of bills for pool operations, such as lifeguard recertifications, cleaning supplies, and chemicals.
- Discussion of 2022 rates, including senior couple rate and guest/daily pass rates
- Payment of bills: Stephen Trocolar lifeguard recertifications $240.00
- Payment of bills: Bag Lady cleaning supplies $254.00
- Payment of bills: Buckman Inc chemicals $2,784.23
The Paramus Municipal Pool Commission met on September 9, 2021, and unanimously approved the August 26 minutes. They also approved payments for lifeguard recertifications, cleaning supplies, and chemicals. The commission discussed closing the pool for the season and began preliminary discussions on 2022 rates, including senior couple, guest, and daily pass rates, but no decisions were made on these items.
- Approved August 26 minutes (unanimous)
- Approved $240.00 for lifeguard recertifications
- Approved $254.00 for cleaning supplies from Bag Lady
- Approved $2,784.23 for chemicals from Buckman Inc
Shade Tree & Parks Commission
The Shade Tree & Parks Commission is reviewing tree preservation releases for several residential addresses. The body is also discussing a sidewalk program and attendance at the 2021 Shade Tree Federation Conference.
- Tree preservation releases for 72 Lotus Lane, 235 Hoppers Lane, 233 Concord Drive, 165 Stuart Street, 95 Benton Road, 459 Nevada Street, and 652 East Beverwyck Place
- $100,000.00 capital funding for the 2021 Sidewalk Program
- Sidewalk program contractor start date in early October for 123 locations
- Attendance for two people at the 2021 Shade Tree Federation Conference on October 21-22
Golf Commission
The Paramus Golf Commission is holding its regular monthly meeting. The agenda includes approval of the August minutes, a finance report, and updates from the general manager and superintendent on topics like aeration, capital projects, and the budget. The commission will also discuss old business regarding the restaurant and online tee times, and take public comment.
- Approval of August meeting minutes
- Finance report for August
- General Manager/Superintendent report on aeration, capital, and budget
- Old business: restaurant and online tee times
- Public comment period (5 minutes max per person)
The Paramus Golf Commission approved the August 3rd meeting minutes with a modification requested by the Vice Chairman. The Commission discussed plans to launch online tee time booking for resident members starting October 1st and for all golfers on November 1st. It was reported that the restaurant has not paid rent and is awaiting its liquor license. The Commission also discussed golf course maintenance, including aeration and planned drill and fill work.
- Approved the August 3rd meeting minutes with a modification to include the Vice Chairman's response to a resident.
- Set a goal to enable online tee time booking for resident members only on October 1st and for all golfers on November 1st.
- Discussed, but did not decide, whether to reserve a percentage of back nine tee times for residents, leaving it open for all.
- Discussed the possibility of compensating a part-time employee to train and oversee rangers regarding golf etiquette.
Planning Board
The Planning Board is reviewing several development applications, including an amended site plan for Valley Hospital and a minor site plan for bumper cars at Paramus Park Mall. The board will also consider a mixed-use building proposal and a redevelopment plan review.
- Amended Site Plan & Variance for Valley Hospital, Inc. at 599-611 Valley Health Plaza
- Minor Site Plan for bumper cars by Yeu Entertainment, LLC at 700 Paramus Park
- Preliminary and Final Site Plan for a mixed-use building by GCGS Associates, LLC on From Road
- Amended and Final Site Plans/Variances for Dynasty Realty, LLC at 140 N. Route 17
- Review of Ordinance 2021-40 regarding the Redevelopment Plan for various Nursey Sites
The Paramus Planning Board approved Resolution 2021-13 for The Valley Hospital, Inc. cooling tower, and approved site plans for Yeu Entertainment (bumper cars at Paramus Park Mall) and Dynasty Realty (amended site plan at 140 N. Route 17). The board tabled review of a redevelopment plan amendment for Joy's Farm due to insufficient detail, and carried the GCGS Associates mixed-use application to a future meeting.
- Approved Resolution 2021-13 for Valley Hospital cooling tower (4-0)
- Approved Yeu Entertainment minor site plan for bumper cars at Paramus Park Mall (5-0)
- Approved Dynasty Realty amended site plan, major soil movement, variances, and signage at 140 N. Route 17 (6-0)
- Tabled review of Ordinance 201-40 redevelopment plan amendment for Joy's Farm pending more information
- Carried GCGS Associates mixed-use site plan application to October 7, 2021 meeting
- Approved vouchers to be paid (6-0)
- Adopted minutes from August 5, 2021 meeting (6-0)
Environmental Commission
The Environmental Commission is holding a special virtual meeting to discuss the upcoming Pride and Paramus Cleanup event. No other business is listed on the agenda.
- Discussion of Pride and Paramus Cleanup event
The commission discussed and finalized details for the PRIDE in Paramus cleanup event on Saturday, September 25, from 9am to 1pm, including volunteer roles, site locations, food, and giveaways. No formal votes or decisions were taken; the meeting was procedural and planning-focused.
- Scheduled PRIDE in Paramus cleanup for Sept. 25, 9am-1pm
- Set volunteer rules: 16+ to lead groups, children with adults, 1:10 adult-to-child ratio
- Designated commission members as site leaders
- Identified possible cleanup sites: Westbrook Middle School, Library/HS, Petruska Park, Constitution Grove, Volunteer Ambulance, Robin Rd, Floor & Decor
- Arranged food from MERK truck and Ed Hill, with donation from Suez
- Planned giveaways: bento-style lunch boxes and face masks with PRIDE logo
Pool Commission
The Commission discussed operational updates including lightning detector repairs and personnel shortages that may require closing the intermediate pool. Members also reviewed snack bar requests and future entertainment planning.
- Agreement to remove unused bocce court to expand kiddie pool area
- $375 payment for IEH water testing
- Discussion of lightning detector malfunction
- Notice regarding intermediate pool closure due to lower personnel
- Request for coffee for next season's snack bar
The Paramus Municipal Pool Commission met on August 26, 2021, and unanimously approved the minutes from August 12. The commission agreed to remove the unused bocce court to expand the kiddie pool area, and discussed several operational issues including a non-working lightning detector, plans to set up the free Remind App for weather notifications, and closing the intermediate pool due to reduced staff. A $375 payment to IEH for water testing was approved.
- Approved minutes from August 12 meeting unanimously
- Agreed to remove the bocce court to expand the kiddie pool area
- Approved payment of $375 to IEH for water testing
- Discussed setting up the free Remind App for weather notifications
- Noted intermediate pool will need to be closed due to lower staffing
Mayor & Council
The Paramus Mayor and Council will hold a public hearing and vote on the 2021 municipal budget, an amendment to it, and several bond ordinances, including a $7.7M bond for public improvements and equipment. They will also discuss a redevelopment plan amendment for Joy Farm and introduce ordinances on zoning, business fees, and police promotions. Numerous resolutions cover routine items like appointments, payments, and event permits.
- Bond ordinance 2021-33: $7,700,000 for public improvements, equipment, vehicles, and technology
- Bond ordinance 2021-34: $1,100,000 for improvements to ponds at Paramus Municipal Golf Course
- Public hearing and resolutions for CY 2021 municipal budget and budget amendment
- Ordinance 2021-40: Amends redevelopment plan for various nursery sites
- Resolution 21-08-540: Authorizes sale of certain real property not required for public purposes
The Council adopted the CY 2021 municipal budget (Resolution 21-08-493) by a 4-1 vote, with Councilman DiPiazza dissenting. It also amended the budget (Resolution 21-08-492) 4-1. The Council introduced several ordinances, including one to amend the redevelopment plan for Joy Farm (Ordinance 2021-40), which was tabled and then taken off the table, with a vote of 4-0-1 (DiPiazza abstaining). The Council also approved a $7.7 million bond ordinance for public improvements and a $1.1 million bond for golf course pond improvements.
- Adopted the CY 2021 municipal budget (Resolution 21-08-493) 4-1.
- Amended the 2021 budget (Resolution 21-08-492) 4-1.
- Introduced Ordinance 2021-40 (Joy Farm redevelopment plan amendment) 4-0-1.
- Tabled and then took off the table Ordinance 2021-40 (3-2 and 5-0 votes).
- Approved $7.7 million bond ordinance for public improvements (Ordinance 2021-33) 5-0.
- Approved $1.1 million bond for golf course pond improvements (Ordinance 2021-34) 5-0.
- Approved sale of real property (Resolution 21-08-540) 4-0.
- Approved various appointments, promotions, and retirements via consent agenda.
🗳️ How they voted — 1 divided vote
Recreation Commission
The Paramus Recreation Commission is holding a regular public meeting to discuss and receive reports on various recreational programs, including summer wrap-ups and fall registrations. The agenda includes a closed session for football volunteers, finance approvals, and committee updates. No major decisions or public hearings are listed beyond routine reports.
- Closed session on Football Volunteers
- Finance approval
- Meeting minutes approval for April
- Summer Playground wrap-up
- Fall Festival planning
Board of Adjustment
The Paramus Board of Adjustment will hold public hearings, including a continued application from Paramus Development LLC to build a four-story self-storage facility at 75 Route 17 S, which requires variances for use, coverage, height, and lighting. The board will also consider resolutions for two other dockets, approve bills, and adopt minutes from the previous meeting.
- Public hearing: Docket 7160, Paramus Development LLC, 75 Route 17 S, four-story self-storage (variances for use, coverage, height, lighting)
- Resolution: Docket 7156 (Gomez)
- Resolution: Docket 7165 (Rodriguez)
- Approval of bills
- Approval of minutes from July 22, 2021
The Board of Adjustment approved a resolution of denial for Docket No. 7156 (Gomez) and approved Docket No. 7165 (Rodriquez), both unanimously. The board also approved the July 22, 2021 minutes and paid bills. After a public hearing, the board unanimously approved a variance application by Paramus Development LLC to construct a four-story self-storage facility at 75 Route 17 South, despite neighbor concerns about height and water issues.
- Approved resolution of denial for Docket No. 7156 (Gomez) (3-0)
- Approved Docket No. 7165 (Rodriquez) (4-0)
- Approved minutes of July 22, 2021 (4-0)
- Approved payment of bills (5-0)
- Approved four-story self-storage facility at 75 Route 17 South (7-0)
Pool Commission
The commission is considering whether offering day passes to the general public for the remainder of the season would increase revenue. The meeting also includes reports from the pool manager and various committees.
- Discussion on opening day passes to everyone to generate revenue
- Payment to Buckman’s Inc for chemicals totaling $6,630.00
- Payment to O’Neill & Sons for Main Vac in the amount of $6,229.99
- Payment to Gill ID Systems for ID Cards in the amount of $1,015.00
- Approval of July 22, 2021, meeting minutes
The Paramus Municipal Pool Commission voted unanimously to approve the July 22 meeting minutes and agreed to a trial run of opening day passes to everyone for the remainder of August, at $25 per adult and $15 per child under 12. The pool will remain open September 1-6. The commission also approved payment of seven bills totaling $14,585.91.
- Approved July 22, 2021 meeting minutes (unanimous)
- Approved trial of day passes open to all for remainder of August at $25/adult, $15/child under 12
- Pool to be open September 1-6
- Approved payment of bills totaling $14,585.91 (unanimous)
Environmental Commission
The Paramus Environmental Commission is meeting to discuss ongoing business, including Ordinance 19-16 regulating retail plastic bags and polystyrene foam, with requests for exemptions to be considered. They will also review reports from the Borough Council, Planning Board, and social media, and plan for a future polystyrene drive.
- Ordinance 19-16 regulating retail plastic bags and polystyrene foam
- Requests for exemption from Ordinance 19-16
- Pride in Paramus planning
- National Night Out recap
- Next polystyrene drive
Planning Board
The Paramus Planning Board is holding a virtual public hearing to review five specific development applications. The agenda includes a subdivision, a change of use, a major soil movement permit, and two site plan/variance requests. The meeting is conducted via Webex and telephone, with applications posted on the borough website.
- Subdivision application for Garden State Plaza Boulevard, Block 204, Lot 2.01
- Change of Use application for 299-319 Route 17 South, Block 3102, Lot 4
- Major Soil Movement Permit for Urban Edge-Bergen Town Center, Route 4 East and Forest Avenue
- Site Plan and Signage application for 309 Route 17 South, Block 3102, Lot 4.02
- Amended Site Plan & Variance for The Valley Hospital, Inc. at 599-611 Valley Health Plaza
The Paramus Planning Board approved all five applications before it, including a variance for Valley Hospital's cooling towers, a virtual reality venue at Route 17, and a motel sign amendment. All votes were unanimous except for the Valley Hospital variance, which passed 6-0 with one abstention. The board also approved vouchers and adopted minutes from the July 1 meeting.
- Approved Resolution 2021-10 for BCC Swim Holdings, LLC (7-0)
- Approved Resolution 2021-11 for Borough of Paramus Garden State Plaza Blvd (7-0)
- Approved Resolution 2021-12 for Urban Edge, Bergen Town Center (7-0)
- Approved indoor pool at 171 Midwood Road for Andy Property Investment, LLC (6-0)
- Approved site plan and signage for Paramus Southbound Property, LLC (7-0)
- Approved amended site plan and signage for Pared Motel Associates, LLC (7-0)
- Approved amended site plan and variance for The Valley Hospital, Inc. (6-0, 1 abstention)
- Approved vouchers to be paid (7-0)
Golf Commission
The Paramus Golf Commission is holding its regular monthly meeting to approve the June minutes, hear the finance report for June and July, and receive updates from the general manager on tournaments, mini golf, and staff. The agenda also includes old business items like the restaurant, online tee times, and cart lease, plus a public comment period.
- Approval of June 1st meeting minutes
- Finance report for June and July
- General Manager/Superintendent report on tournaments, mini golf, staff
- Old business: restaurant, online tee times, cart lease
- Public comment period (5 minutes max per person)
The Paramus Golf Commission approved moving forward with bidding for golf carts, with demos from Club Car, Yamaha, and EZGO. The commission also noted that the back 9 special on Wednesdays will be discontinued next year due to maintenance. Public comments included concerns about tee time changes and suggestions for a survey.
- Approved bidding for golf carts
- Approved minutes from June 1st meeting
- Noted back 9 special on Wednesdays will end next year
- Scheduled next meeting for September 7th
Board of Adjustment
The Paramus Board of Adjustment will hold public hearings on four variance applications, including two residential and one commercial project, and will consider resolutions for two prior applications. The board will also appoint a Board of Adjustment attorney. The commercial application for a self-storage facility on Route 17 has been revised by the applicant.
- Docket 7156: Gomez, 265 McKinley Blvd – retain second level over garage (height/story variance)
- Docket 7165: Rodriguez, 374 Elmwood Drive – 6-ft fence in front yard setback (variance from 3'6" limit)
- Docket 7160: Paramus Development LLC, 75 Route 17 S – four-story self-storage (variances for use, coverage, height, lighting)
- Resolutions for Docket 7133 (MPB Realty/Dunkin) and Docket 6086 (PSE&G Substation)
- Appointment of Board of Adjustment Attorney
The Paramus Board of Adjustment denied a variance to retain a two-story garage at 265 McKinley Blvd, voting 4-1 against the application. The board also approved a fence variance at 374 Elmwood Drive and continued a commercial application for a self-storage facility on Route 17 S to August 12, 2021.
- Appointed John L. Schettino, LLC as Board Attorney (5-0)
- Approved 6-foot front yard fence variance at 374 Elmwood Drive (5-0)
- Denied variance to retain two-story garage at 265 McKinley Blvd (4-1)
- Approved resolution for Docket No. 7133 – MPB Realty (4-0)
- Approved resolution for Docket No. 6086-A – PSE&G (5-0)
- Continued Docket No. 7160 – Paramus Development LLC self-storage facility to August 12, 2021
Pool Commission
The Paramus Municipal Pool Commission is meeting to approve minutes, hear public comment, and discuss correspondence including a rental request from Pike Dive Academy and a proposal for a senior guest rate. They will also receive reports from the engineer, pool manager, and committees, and review the budget and bills.
- Pike Dive Academy requests hourly morning rental
- Proposal for senior guest rate for next year
- Payment of bills: Buckman Inc. chemicals $3,103.43
- IEH NE-Sanipure Food Labs water testing $375.00
- Donovan Carpentry & Construction dive block install $342.00
The Paramus Municipal Pool Commission met on July 22, 2021, and approved the minutes from the previous meeting. They discussed a movie night planned for August 11, with a rain date of August 12, and agreed to discuss opening the pool on Tuesdays and Wednesdays in September at the next meeting. The commission also approved payment of bills totaling $3,820.43 for chemicals, water testing, and a dive block install.
- Approved minutes from 07/08/2021 (unanimous)
- Approved payment of bills: Buckman Inc. chemicals $3,103.43, IEH NE-Sanipure water testing $375.00, Donovan Carpentry dive block install $342.00 (unanimous)
- Planned movie night for August 11 with rain date August 12
- Agreed to discuss September Tuesday/Wednesday openings at next meeting
Mayor & Council
The Paramus Mayor and Council is holding a public meeting with a full agenda of resolutions and ordinances, including two bond ordinances totaling $8.8 million for public improvements and golf course pond work, an ordinance on police promotions, and a resolution designating a redeveloper for Area 4. The meeting also includes numerous personnel appointments, shared service agreements, and a closed session to discuss litigation and legal analysis.
- Ordinance 2021-33: $7,700,000 bond for public improvements, equipment, and vehicles
- Ordinance 2021-34: $1,100,000 bond for golf course pond improvements
- Ordinance 2021-32: Amends police department promotion rules (tabled June 30)
- Resolution 21-07-482: Designates UNLMTD Development LLC as redeveloper of Area 4 (Block 204, Lots 1 and 2.01)
- Resolution 21-07-451: Accepts $264,940 state grant for body-worn cameras
The Paramus Mayor and Council tabled Ordinance 2021-32, which would amend the police promotion process, after Councilman Vartolone requested more time to review new information. The council also introduced several bond ordinances, including a $7.7 million bond for various public improvements and a $1.1 million bond for golf course pond improvements. Additionally, they approved a consent agenda with numerous resolutions, including the acceptance of a $264,940 body-worn camera grant and the appointment of various personnel.
- Tabled Ordinance 2021-32 (police promotion amendment) by a 3-2 vote.
- Introduced Ordinance 2021-33, a $7.7 million bond for public improvements and equipment.
- Introduced Ordinance 2021-34, a $1.1 million bond for golf course pond improvements.
- Introduced Ordinance 2021-35, creating a new title and updating job description for Desktop Support Level II.
- Introduced Ordinance 2021-36, rescinding a financial agreement with Columbus Crossing, LLC.
- Adopted Ordinance 2021-28 (signage and facades), 2021-29 (accepting Brock Court as a borough street), and 2021-31 (Shade Tree and Parks Commission) on final reading.
- Approved Resolution 21-07-482 designating UNLMTD Development LLC as redeveloper of Redevelopment Area 4.
- Approved Resolution 21-07-489 authorizing a redevelopment agreement with Toll Paramus LLC for 578 Paramus Rd.
🗳️ How they voted — 1 divided vote
Environmental Commission
The Paramus Environmental Commission is holding a regular public meeting via Zoom with standard procedural items: call to order, pledge, roll call, minutes approval, and reports. The agenda includes updates from the Borough Council and Planning Board, a social media report, and old business on exemption requests, with no major decisions or proposals listed.
- Approval of prior meeting minutes
- Borough Council report by Joseph Vartolone
- Planning Board report (representative TBD)
- Social media report by Jamie Love
- Old business: requests for exemption (Nicole Smith)
Pool Commission
The Paramus Municipal Pool Commission is meeting to consider facility rental requests from a teen-night entertainment company and a swim club, plus a membership refund request. The agenda also includes routine items like approving prior minutes, paying bills, and discussing a possible senior couple rate for next year.
- Life is a Party Entertainment requests pool rental for Teen Nights, averaging 300 kids ages 13-18 per event
- Jersey Flyers Aquatic Club requests swim meet rental; options include full day or half days with 100 swimmers
- Membership refund request from Cristine Sambucci due to illness
- Bills include $1,217.94 to Buckman Inc for chemicals and $440 total to Stephen Trocolar for lifeguard certifications
- Discussion of senior couple rate for next year when one spouse is senior and the other is not
The Paramus Municipal Pool Commission denied three requests: a teen night rental from Life is a Party Entertainment, a swim meet from the Jersey Flyers Aquatic Club, and a membership refund for Cristine Sambucci due to illness. The commission also discussed health department concerns about lifeguards during lessons and a recommendation to end early morning senior swim next year. The minutes were approved unanimously.
- Denied Life is a Party Entertainment's request to rent the facility for Teen Nights
- Denied Jersey Flyers Aquatic Club's request to hold a swim meet
- Denied Cristine Sambucci's membership refund request
- Approved minutes from 06/10/2021 unanimously
- Discussed health department requirement for extra lifeguards during lessons
- Recommended ending early morning senior swim next year due to conflicts with lessons
Golf Commission
The Paramus Golf Commission is holding its regular monthly meeting to approve June minutes, review the June finance report, and hear updates from the general manager on tournaments and mini golf. Old business includes the restaurant, online tee times, and cart lease, with public comment limited to five minutes per person.
- Approval of June 1st meeting minutes
- June finance report
- General manager report on tournaments and mini golf
- Old business: restaurant, online tee times, cart lease
- Public comment period (5 minutes max per person)
Planning Board
The Paramus Planning Board is holding a virtual public hearing on July 1, 2021, to consider several applications, including a site plan for a BJ's Wholesale Club fueling station, a subdivision for Borough-owned land on Garden State Plaza Boulevard, a major soil movement permit for Urban Edge Bergen Town Center, and a change of use for BCC Holding/Swim. The board will also review an ordinance amending signage and facade regulations. Public participation is available online or by phone.
- BJ's Wholesale Club, 30 Route 17: site plan and signage for a fueling station (carried from prior meetings)
- Borough of Paramus, Garden State Plaza Boulevard, Block 204, Lot 2.01: subdivision application
- Urban Edge Bergen Town Center, Route 4 East and Forest Avenue: major soil movement permit and site improvements
- BCC Holding, LLC/BCC Swim, LLC, 299-319 Route 17 South: change of use application
- Review of Ordinance 2021-28 amending signage and facade regulations
The Paramus Planning Board approved a minor subdivision for the Borough of Paramus on Garden State Boulevard, a major soil movement permit for Urban Edge-Bergen Town Center, and a change of use for BCC Holdings/BCC Swim. It also approved a review of Mayor and Council Ordinance 2021-28 on signage and facades, vouchers, and minutes. The BJ's Wholesale Club fueling station application was continued to a special meeting on September 23, 2021.
- Approved Resolution 2021-09 for 162 Route 4, LLC (4 in favor, 0 opposed, 1 abstained)
- Approved Borough of Paramus Garden State Boulevard minor subdivision (7-0-1)
- Approved Urban Edge-Bergen Town Center major soil movement permit (8-0-0)
- Approved BCC Holdings/BCC Swim change of use (8-0-0)
- Approved report on Mayor and Council Ordinance 2021-28 regarding signage and facades (8-0-0)
- Approved vouchers to be paid (8-0-0)
- Adopted minutes from June 17, 2021 meeting (8-0-0)
- Continued BJ's Wholesale Club fueling station application to September 23, 2021 special meeting
Mayor & Council
The Paramus Mayor and Council is holding a public meeting with a full agenda including the adoption of the 2021 municipal budget, several ordinances, and numerous resolutions. Key items include designating Toll Brothers as the redeveloper for Redevelopment Area 3, approving various appointments and contracts, and considering several special event permit requests. The meeting also includes a closed session to discuss a refinance.
- Resolution 21-06-405: Adoption of the 2021 municipal budget
- Resolution 21-06-442: Designating Toll Brothers, Inc. as redeveloper of Redevelopment Area 3 (Block 4808, Lots 6.Q and 6.QQ)
- Ordinance 2021-30: Ordinance to exceed municipal budget appropriation limits and establish a cap bank
- Resolution 21-06-410: Release of $96,230.00 letter of credit for Midland Builders, LLC
- Resolution 21-06-426: Agreement with Scarlet Swim Team for pool use at a $3,200.00 rental fee
The Council adopted the CY2021 municipal budget (Resolution 21-06-405) by a 5-1 vote, with Councilman DiPiazza dissenting. The budget, introduced earlier in the meeting, reflects a 7.91% increase and follows a $50 million loss in ratables. The Council also approved a cap bank ordinance (2021-30) by a 4-2 vote to exceed state budget appropriation limits.
- Adopted 2021 municipal budget (5-1)
- Approved ordinance to exceed budget appropriation limits and establish cap bank (4-2)
- Tabled police promotion ordinance 2021-32 until next meeting (5-0-1)
- Introduced ordinances accepting Brock Court as borough street, amending Shade Tree Commission, and amending OEM chapter (all 6-0)
- Approved Valley Hospital sewer repair work 7 days a week including overnight hours
- Approved special event permits for Dino Safari, Just Jersey Fest, Morgan Hoffmann Foundation, and multiple block parties
- Designated Toll Brothers as redeveloper of Redevelopment Area 3, superseding Resolution 20-08-416
- Cancelled COVID-19 special emergencies (6-0)
🗳️ How they voted — 1 divided vote
Board of Health
The Paramus Board of Health is holding its regular meeting to approve minutes and staff reports, discuss correspondence including a grant for retired health officer assistance, and consider several items such as hiring an office clerk, re-hiring outreach coordinators, and restructuring a scholarship fund. The meeting also includes public participation and discussion of other health matters.
- Resolution No. 21-04-239: Notification of meetings under Open Public Meetings Act
- Letter to NJDOH regarding continuance of Retired Health Officer Assistance grant
- Approval of May 2021 staff reports (Environmental, Deputy Registrar, Nurses)
- Hiring a part-time Office Clerk/Alternate Deputy Registrar
- Resolution to re-hire current Vulnerable Population Outreach Coordinators
The Paramus Board of Health approved the minutes, correspondence, staff report, and two license resolutions (Food Establishment and Beauty/Nail Salon). They also discussed COVID-19 vaccination rates, school guidance, and agreed to hire a part-time clerical employee and re-hire VPOC coordinators.
- Approved minutes of May 24, 2021 meeting
- Approved correspondence as submitted
- Approved staff report for June
- Approved Resolution 21-6-1 for Food Establishment Licenses
- Approved Resolution 21-6-2 for Beauty/Nail Salon License
- Agreed to begin interview process for part-time clerical employee
- Unanimously agreed to re-hire Vulnerable Population Outreach Coordinators
Board of Adjustment
The Paramus Board of Adjustment will hold a virtual public hearing on June 24, 2021, to consider a variance application from PSE&G for its substation at 45 Woodland Avenue. The applicant requests approval to install new equipment that would exceed height and setback limits, reduce required parking and buffer areas, and waive certain plan requirements. The board will also vote on resolutions for several other dockets and approve minutes from the June 10 meeting.
- PSE&G substation: install regulators, switch gear, lighting masts; proposed mast height 70 ft vs 60 ft max, setback 12.7 ft vs 25 ft required
- Waivers requested for Floor Plan and Impact Evaluation
- Resolutions for Docket Nos. 7161 (Good), 7162 (DiMartino), 7163 (Haynes), 7164 (LoBue), 7156 (Gomez)
- Approval of June 10 minutes
The Board of Adjustment approved PSE&G's application to modernize its substation at 5 Woodland Avenue, including equipment upgrades and related variances. The project, funded by the Energy Strong Program, will take about two years with no service interruption. The board also approved resolutions for dockets 7163, 7162, and 7161, denied docket 7164, and approved the June 10, 2021 minutes.
- Approved PSE&G substation upgrade at 5 Woodland Avenue (Docket 6086) with variances, motion carried unanimously.
- Approved resolution of denial for Docket 7164 (LoBue), motion carried.
- Approved resolution for Docket 7163 (Haynes), motion carried.
- Approved resolution for Docket 7162 (DiMartino), motion carried.
- Approved resolution for Docket 7161 (Good), motion carried.
- Approved minutes of June 10, 2021 meeting, motion carried.
Pool Commission
The Paramus Municipal Pool Commission is considering two facility rental requests: one for teen nights and one for a swim meet. The commission is also discussing a new senior couple rate option for next year.
- Life is a Party Entertainment requests facility rental for Teen Nights, averaging 300 kids ages 13-18
- Jersey Flyers Aquatic Club requests to hold a swim meet with 100 swimmers, preferring July 10-18
- Discussion of senior couple rate for cases where one spouse is a senior and the other is not
- Approval of minutes from 06/10/2021 meeting
Planning Board
The Paramus Planning Board held a virtual public hearing on June 17, 2021, to review two major development applications. The board considered a signage request for Jo-Ann Stores and a complex application from 162 RTE 4, LLC involving site plans, soil movement, variances, and signage at W. 162 Route 4 East. Additionally, the board reviewed preliminary and final site plans for a mixed-use building proposed by GCGS Associates, LLC at From Road.
- Signage application for Jo-Ann Stores, LLC at 30 A&S Drive
- Site plan, major soil movement, variances, and signage for 162 RTE 4, LLC at W. 162 Route 4 East
- Preliminary and final site plan for a mixed-use building by GCGS Associates, LLC at From Road
The board approved Resolution 2021-08 for JoAnn Stores, LLC, and approved the site plan for a Popeye's restaurant at 162 Route 4 East, with all members voting in favor. A mixed-use development on From Road was discussed but carried to September 2, 2021, pending revised plans. The board also approved vouchers and adopted minutes from the June 3 meeting.
- Approved Resolution 2021-08 for JoAnn Stores, LLC (5-0).
- Approved site plan for 162 RTE 4, LLC (Popeye's) at 162 Route 4 East (6-0).
- Carried GCGS Associates' mixed-use application to September 2, 2021, for revised plans.
- Approved vouchers to be paid (6-0).
- Adopted minutes from June 3, 2021 meeting (6-0).
Mayor & Council
The Paramus Mayor and Council will hold a public meeting to consider several ordinances, including one to allow medical cannabis dispensaries and another to amend zoning for the Mount Laurel residential zone. They will also vote on resolutions covering police department procedures, collective bargaining with Teamsters Local 97, and various appointments and contracts. The agenda includes routine items like bill payments and meeting minutes.
- Ordinance 2021-27: Amends Office of Emergency Management chapter
- Ordinance 2021-28: Amends signage and facade regulations
- Ordinance 2021-21: Introduces medical cannabis dispensary chapter
- Ordinance 2021-22: Introduces alternative treatment centers chapter
- Resolution 21-06-363: Authorizes collective bargaining agreement with Teamsters Local 97
The Paramus Mayor and Council approved final ordinances 2021-21 and 2021-22, which establish regulations for medicinal cannabis dispensaries and amend zoning accordingly. They also introduced ordinances 2021-27 and 2021-28, and passed a series of resolutions including the Teamsters collective bargaining agreement and various appointments. The meeting included public comments on medical marijuana, overnight parking, and volunteer organizations.
- Approved Ordinance 2021-21 (final) to add Chapter 158, Medicinal Cannabis Dispensary, to the Borough code.
- Approved Ordinance 2021-22 (final) to amend Chapter 429, Zoning, replacing 'Alternative Treatment Centers' with 'Medicinal Cannabis Dispensaries'.
- Introduced Ordinance 2021-27 to amend Chapter 141, Office of Emergency Management.
- Introduced Ordinance 2021-28 to amend signage and facade regulations.
- Approved Resolution 21-06-363 authorizing the Mayor to execute the collective bargaining agreement with Teamsters Local 97.
- Approved Resolution 21-06-380 appointing Christopher Hulahan to Building Maintenance Step 1 at $15.44/hour.
- Approved Resolution 21-06-389 stepping up police officers to Patrol Officer Step 8 at $126,969/year.
- Approved Resolution 21-06-390 stepping up police officers to Police Officer Step 7 at $115,394/year.
🗳️ How they voted (15 roll-call votes)
Environmental Commission
The Paramus Environmental Commission is meeting to discuss old and new business, including requests for exemptions to Ordinance 19-16, which regulates retail plastic bags and polystyrene foam. They will also recap recent events like Earth Day and a polystyrene collection drive. The meeting is largely procedural, with reports from borough council and planning board representatives.
- Requests for exemption from Ordinance 19-16 (plastic bags and polystyrene foam)
- Earth Day recap
- Polystyrene collection drive recap
- Borough Council report
- Planning Board report
The Paramus Environmental Commission met virtually and approved the April and May 2021 minutes. They reviewed the successful Earth Day 2021 event and the Styrofoam collection drive, and discussed the upcoming state bag law (SA64) banning plastic bags and Styrofoam in 2022. No formal resolutions or substantive decisions were made beyond approving the minutes.
- Approved April 2021 minutes (all in favor)
- Approved May 2021 minutes with corrections (all in favor)
Board of Adjustment
The Paramus Board of Adjustment will hold public hearings on five residential variance applications, each seeking relief from zoning rules on accessory structures, additions, and setbacks. The board will also consider a resolution for Docket No. 7133 (MPB Realty/Dunkin) and approve minutes from May 27, 2021.
- Docket 7156: Gomez, 265 McKinley Blvd — retain second level over garage, contrary to Sec. 429-29 (height/story limit)
- Docket 7161: Good, 618 Victoria Terrace — hot tub 4'5" from side and 6'4" from rear lot line, vs. required 10 feet
- Docket 7162: DiMartino, 722 Arbor Road — one-story addition with 20-foot rear yard, vs. required 30 feet
- Docket 7163: Haynes, 820 Carter Lane — two-story addition with 6.36-foot side yard, vs. required 12 feet
- Docket 7164: LoBue, 577 Green Valley Road — one-car garage 3.7 feet from side line, vs. required 10 feet
Pool Commission
The Paramus Municipal Pool Commission met on June 10, 2021, to conduct routine administrative business. The agenda included the approval of previous minutes, reports from the pool manager and engineers, and a review of the budget. The commission also addressed correspondence regarding private swim lessons and approved the payment of four specific vendor invoices.
- Approval of minutes from the May 27, 2021 meeting
- Payment of $239.92 to American Wear for manager polos
- Payment of $554.00 to GPG Enterprises for AED supplies
- Payment of $6,246.51 to Buckman Inc for chemicals
- Payment of $320.70 to Bag Lady for cleaning supplies
The Paramus Municipal Pool Commission met on June 10, 2021, and approved the minutes from May 27, 2021, unanimously. The commission also approved payment of bills totaling $16,966.46 for items such as chemicals, dive blocks, and cleaning supplies. No other substantive decisions were made; the meeting included reports on swim lesson sign-ups and a need to hire additional lifeguards.
- Approved minutes of 05/27/2021 (unanimous)
- Approved payment of bills: American Wear $239.92, GPG Enterprises $554.00, Buckman Inc $6,246.51, Bag Lady $320.70, Recreonics $367.80, PowerStarts $8,437.53
Planning Board
The Paramus Planning Board will hold a virtual public hearing on June 3, 2021, to consider several applications. The most substantial item is BJ's Wholesale Club's site plan and signage for a fueling station at 30 Route 17, which has been carried over from previous meetings. The board will also review Jo-Ann Stores' signage and site plan at 30 A&S Drive, and a subdivision application by the Borough of Paramus on Garden State Plaza Boulevard. Additionally, the board will review ordinances related to cannabis and alternative treatment centers, and a zoning amendment for the Mount Laurel Residents zone.
- BJ's Wholesale Club site plan and signage for fueling station at 30 Route 17 (Block 501, Lot 5; Block 502, Lots 9 & 2.02)
- Jo-Ann Stores signage and site plan at 30 A&S Drive (Block 6202, Lot 3), including sign variance
- Borough of Paramus subdivision application on Garden State Plaza Boulevard (Block 204, Lot 2.01)
- Review of ordinance to amend Chapter 429 (Zoning) regarding cannabis
- Review of ordinance to amend Chapter 158 regarding Alternative Treatment Centers
The Paramus Planning Board approved a signage application from JoAnn Stores, LLC for their store at 30 A&S Drive, including a mural and new side signage, with a 6-0 vote. The board also voted 6-0 to send recommendations to the Mayor and Council on amendments to cannabis ordinances and a Mount Laurel zoning gap, and approved vouchers and the May 6, 2021 minutes.
- Approved JoAnn Stores signage application with mural and side signage (6-0)
- Approved sending recommendations to Mayor and Council on cannabis ordinance amendments (6-0)
- Approved sending recommendations on Mount Laurel zoning amendment (6-0)
- Approved vouchers to be paid (6-0)
- Adopted minutes from May 6, 2021 meeting (6-0)
Golf Commission
The Paramus Golf Commission is holding its regular monthly meeting. The agenda includes routine items such as approving the May minutes, receiving the finance report, and hearing the General Manager's report on tournaments and mini golf. The commission will also discuss old business (restaurant, COVID restrictions) and new business, including resuming in-person meetings and a cart lease. Public comment is limited to 5 minutes per person.
- Approval of May 4th meeting minutes
- Finance report for May
- General Manager/Superintendent report on tournaments, outings, mini golf
- Discussion of restaurant and COVID restrictions
- New business: resume in-person meetings and cart lease
The Paramus Golf Commission voted to resume in-person meetings starting in July, after meeting virtually. They also approved reinstating previous outing charges for two outings this year. The commission discussed the golf cart lease, which will go out to bid once the Mayor and Council approve it, and noted that May revenue was the best in five years.
- Resumed in-person meetings starting July (motion by Ralph Amato, all in favor)
- Reinstated previous outing charges for two outings this year (motion by Vice Chairman, seconded by Mike Blitzstein)
Board of Adjustment
The Paramus Board of Adjustment will hold a public hearing on a commercial application from Paramus Development LLC to build a four-story self-storage facility at 75 Route 17 S. The applicant seeks variances for a use not permitted in the zone, plus exceptions to building coverage, height, and lighting limits. The board will also consider a resolution for a prior Dunkin' application and approve minutes from May 13, 2021.
- Public hearing: Docket No. 7160, Paramus Development LLC, Block 1901 Lot 3, 75 Route 17 S — four-story self-storage building
- Variance sought: use not permitted (Sec. 429-121)
- Variance sought: building coverage 37% vs. 25% max (Sec. 429-124)
- Variance sought: building height 48.1 ft vs. 36 ft max (Sec. 429-135)
- Variance sought: illumination up to 2.0 fc vs. 0.2 fc max (Sec. 371-33)
The Board of Adjustment held a public hearing for a proposed four-story self-storage facility at 75 Route 17 S. by Paramus Development LLC. After testimony and board questions, the application was continued to July 22, 2021, with no decision made. The board also approved the minutes from the May 13, 2021 meeting.
- Continued Docket No. 7160 (Paramus Development LLC, 75 Route 17 S.) to July 22, 2021
- Approved minutes of May 13, 2021 (3-0)
Pool Commission
The Paramus Municipal Pool Commission is holding a regular meeting to approve minutes, hear public comments, and receive reports from the pool manager and committees. The commission will also consider payment of bills totaling $4,708.30 for lifeguard recertification, pool bands, lifeguard suits, and shirts. The agenda is largely procedural, with no major policy decisions listed.
- Payment of $189.00 to Stephen Trocolar for lifeguard recertifications
- Payment of $944.47 to Creative Specialty Promos for deep water bands
- Payment of $2,154.37 to Original Watermen Inc for lifeguard suits
- Payment of $1,420.46 to American Wear for shirts
- Approval of minutes from April 22 and May 13, 2021
The Paramus Municipal Pool Commission met on May 27, 2021, and unanimously approved the minutes from April 22 and May 13, as well as payments for pool-related expenses. The pool manager reported that the filter and kiddie pool are operational, water samples were taken, and one auto vac is being repaired. No substantive policy decisions were made; the meeting was largely procedural and informational.
- Approved minutes of 04/22/21 and 05/13/21 (unanimous)
- Approved payment of $189.00 to Stephen Trocolar for lifeguard recerts
- Approved payment of $944.47 to Creative Specialty Promos for deep water bands
- Approved payment of $2154.37 to Original Watermen Inc for lifeguard suits
- Approved payment of $1420.46 to American Wear for shirts
Mayor & Council
The Paramus Mayor and Council will hold a public meeting on May 25, 2021, to consider several resolutions and ordinances. Key items include a redevelopment agreement for Area 3, a fireworks display request, and multiple appointments and separations. The agenda also includes routine approvals for payments, escrow releases, and license renewals.
- Redevelopment agreement with Tori Brett LLC for Area 3 (Block 4808, Lots 6.Q and 6.QQ)
- Ordinance 2021-26 to repeal and replace parking prohibition schedule (Schedule XIV)
- Ordinance 2021-20 amending certain license fees (ABC)
- Ordinance 2021-24 fixing salaries for part-time employees
- Resolution 21-05-341: shared services agreement with South Hackensack for recyclables collection
The Paramus Mayor and Council approved a resolution to submit a 2021 Bergen County Trust Fund grant application, along with several other resolutions including a redevelopment agreement with Tori Brett LLC and a shared services agreement with South Hackensack. The council also introduced and passed ordinances on parking prohibitions, license fees, part-time employee salaries, and stormwater management. No public comments were made on the ordinances.
- Approved submission of 2021 Bergen County Trust Fund grant application (6-0)
- Approved redevelopment agreement with Tori Brett LLC for Redevelopment Area 3 (6-0)
- Approved shared services agreement with South Hackensack for recyclable materials collection (6-0)
- Introduced Ordinance 2021-26 to repeal and replace parking prohibition schedule (6-0)
- Adopted Ordinance 2021-20 amending certain license fees (6-0)
- Adopted Ordinance 2021-24 fixing part-time employee salaries (6-0)
- Adopted Ordinance 2021-25 repealing and replacing stormwater management regulations (6-0)
- Approved Arcola Country Club fireworks display for July 1, 2021
🗳️ How they voted (6 roll-call votes)
Board of Health
The Paramus Board of Health is holding its regular meeting, covering routine approvals, reports, and correspondence. The main business is a set of resolutions to appoint Joanna Adamiak as Health Officer, Director of Health, Local Registrar, and Secretary to the Board, plus hiring a new Office Clerk/Alternate Deputy Registrar to replace Clare Pigoncelli. The agenda also includes updates on the Weight Loss Challenge and VPOC Grant, and a letter from Stony School.
- Resolution to appoint Joanna Adamiak as Health Officer, Director of Health
- Resolution to appoint Joanna Adamiak as Local Registrar
- Resolution to appoint Joanna Adamiak as Secretary to the Board of Health
- Hire new Office Clerk/Alternate Deputy Registrar to replace Clare Pigoncelli
- Approval of minutes from March 2021 and staff reports for March & April 2021
The Paramus Board of Health unanimously approved three resolutions appointing Joanna Adamiak to the positions of Health Officer, Registrar of Vital Statistics, and Secretary for the Board of Health. The board also approved the Health Officer's report for March and April, and approved licenses for food handling, beauty/nail salons, and vending machines. No other substantive decisions were made; discussion of replacing a retired full-time employee was deferred.
- Appointed Joanna Adamiak as Health Officer (5-0)
- Appointed Joanna Adamiak as Registrar of Vital Statistics (5-0)
- Appointed Joanna Adamiak as Secretary for the Board of Health (5-0)
- Approved Health Officer's report for March and April
- Approved Restaurant Licenses Appendix A-FH 112577 through A-FH 112576
- Approved Beauty/Nail Salon Licenses Appendix I-BNS 112584 through I-BNS 112581
- Approved Vending Machine Licenses Appendix E-VMO 112580 through E-VMO 112583
- Approved minutes of March 22, 2021 meeting
Planning Board
The May 20, 2021 Planning Board public hearing meeting was cancelled. Two applicant matters, originally scheduled for this date, have been carried to the June 17, 2021 meeting. The next scheduled meeting is June 3, 2021.
- Meeting cancelled for May 20, 2021
- 162 RTE 4, LLC. — 162 Route 4 East, Block 103, Lot 3 — continued to June 17, 2021
- A2 Enterprises, LLC. — 697 Paramus Road & 143 W. Ridgewood Avenue, Block 6701, Lots 6 & 7 — carried to June 17, 2021
- Next meeting: June 3, 2021
Pool Commission
The Paramus Municipal Pool Commission is meeting to discuss correspondence from EPIC School and the YMCA regarding pool use. They will also review minutes, hear reports, and handle routine business. The agenda is largely procedural, with the main substantive items being the proposed EPIC School swim sessions and YMCA swim meets.
- EPIC School requests weekly pool use for students with disabilities, July 6-August 11, with 1:1 supervision
- YMCA requests two swim meets, one in June and one in July, before pool opening hours
- Pool painting complete except for red kiddie pool feature
- Discussion of BCM triathlon under old business
The Paramus Municipal Pool Commission met on May 13, 2021, but lacked a quorum, so no official decisions were made. The minutes from April 22, 2021, could not be approved. The meeting was brief, with public comment closed after one minute, and adjourned unanimously at 7:28 pm.
- Minutes for 04/22/2021 not approved due to lack of quorum
- Meeting adjourned unanimously at 7:28 pm
Board of Adjustment
The Paramus Board of Adjustment will hold public hearings, including a continued application for a six-story self-storage facility at 750 Route 17 N, which requires multiple variances. The board will also consider resolutions for several other dockets and approve minutes and bills.
- Docket 7148: 750 Paramus LLC, 750 Route 17 N, seeks variances for storage use, height (78.75 ft vs 36 ft), coverage, setbacks, and signage
- New business resolutions for Dockets 7133 (MPB Realty/Dunkin), 7152 (Ridgewood Country Club), 7158 (Amato), 7159 (Basner), 7157 (Morales)
- Approval of minutes from April 8, 2021
- Payment of bills
The Board of Adjustment continued the public hearing for a proposed self-storage facility at 750 Route 17 N. to July 8, 2021, after testimony from the applicant's engineers. The board also approved resolutions for Docket Nos. 7152 (Ridgewood Country Club), 7157 (Morales), 7158 (Amato), and 7159 (Basner), each with unanimous votes. Bills were approved as well.
- Continued Docket No. 7148 (750 Paramus LLC self-storage) to July 8, 2021
- Approved Docket No. 7152 – Ridgewood Country Club (4-0)
- Approved Docket No. 7157 – Morales (4-0)
- Approved Docket No. 7158 – Amato (4-0)
- Approved Docket No. 7159 – Basner (4-0)
- Approved bills (5-0)
Mayor & Council
The Paramus Mayor and Council will hold a public meeting with introductions of several ordinances, including cannabis zoning and license fees, plus final adoption of police, firewood, and swimming pool ordinances. They will also consider resolutions on redevelopment, appointments, and various permits. The agenda includes many routine items like bill payments and seasonal hires.
- Ordinance 2021-21: zoning amendment for cannabis
- Ordinance 2021-22: new chapter on alternative treatment centers
- Resolution 21-04-278: redevelopment agreement with Revicki Farms LLC for 337 Spring Valley Rd
- Resolution 21-04-286: appoint EMT at $17.82/hr
- Resolution 21-05-311: sick time payout of $8,902.40
The Paramus Mayor and Council introduced ordinances to regulate cannabis businesses, including zoning and licensing for alternative treatment centers, and agreed to allow one additional medicinal marijuana dispensary. They also approved a redevelopment agreement with Revicki Farms for 337 Spring Valley Rd and authorized the Planning Board to review the Mount Laurel zoning ordinance. Several routine resolutions and appointments were approved.
- Introduced Ordinance 2021-21 (cannabis zoning) and 2021-22 (alternative treatment centers) (6-0)
- Introduced Ordinance 2021-23 (Mount Laurel RML zone lot area/bulk) (4-0-2)
- Approved Resolution 21-04-278 redevelopment agreement with Revicki Farms (4-2)
- Approved Resolution 21-04-245 Planning Board review for redevelopment designation (4-3)
- Approved Resolution 21-05-306 Planning Board review of Ordinance 2021-23 (5-0-1)
- Approved consent agenda including appointments and salary changes (6-0)
- Approved night work requests for construction and events (various)
🗳️ How they voted — 2 divided votes
Environmental Commission
The commission will review requests for exemptions regarding Ordinance 19-16, which regulates retail plastic bags and polystyrene foam. The meeting also includes updates on Earth Day planning and a polystyrene collection drive.
- Exemption requests for Ordinance 19-16 (Retail Plastic Bags and Polystyrene Foam)
- Earth Day planning for May 16, 2021
- Polystyrene Collection Drive
The Paramus Environmental Commission met virtually on May 10, 2021, and approved a Styrofoam collection pilot program for Paramus residents only, scheduled for June 5 from 9 AM to 12 PM at the recycling center, with a rain date of June 19. The commission also discussed the upcoming Earth Day event on May 16 and the farmers market opening June 2, but no other formal decisions were made. The April minutes were tabled.
- Approved Styrofoam collection pilot program for Paramus residents only, June 5, 9 AM-12 PM, rain date June 19 (all in favor)
- Tabled approval of April minutes
Planning Board
The Paramus Planning Board will hold a virtual public hearing on May 6, 2021, to consider several site plan applications, including a minor site plan for an archery academy on Route 17, a charging station project at Garden State Plaza, a parking structure with major soil movement on From Road, and a site plan with variances for 162 Route 4 East. The board will also take public comments and approve minutes and vouchers.
- SW Archery Academy, LLC - 265 N. Route 17, Block 4301, Lot 8 - Minor Site Plan for archery academy/studio
- Electrify America, LLC - 1 Garden State Blvd., Block 302, Lots 1 & 5 - Minor Site Plan for charging stations at Garden State Plaza
- 650 From Rd, LLC - 650 From Road, Block 6303, Lot 1 - Preliminary & Final Site Plan for parking structure with major soil movement and variance
- 162 RTE 4, LLC - W. 162 Route 4 East, Block 103, Lot 3 - Site Plan with major soil movement, variances, and signage
The Paramus Planning Board approved three resolutions: 2021-05 for SW Archery Academy, 2021-06 for Electrify America, and 2021-07 for 650 From Road, each by a 5-0 vote. The board also heard a site plan application from RTE 4, LLC for a property at 162 Route 4 East, which includes a proposed Popeye's restaurant with a drive-thru, signage, and major soil movement. The application was carried to a future meeting. The board approved vouchers and adopted minutes from the April 15, 2021 meeting.
- Approved Resolution 2021-05 for SW Archery Academy, LLC (5-0)
- Approved Resolution 2021-06 for Electrify America, LLC (5-0)
- Approved Resolution 2021-07 for 650 From Road, LLC (5-0)
- Heard site plan application for RTE 4, LLC (162 Route 4 East) and carried it to a future meeting
- Approved vouchers to be paid (5-0)
- Adopted minutes from April 15, 2021 meeting (5-0)
Golf Commission
The Paramus Golf Commission is holding its regular monthly meeting. The agenda includes approval of the April minutes, a finance report, and reports from the General Manager and Superintendent on staffing and course conditions. Old business covers the restaurant, electric, and golf carts, while new business includes tournaments. The meeting is open to the public with a 5-minute speaking limit per person.
- Approval of minutes from April 6th meeting
- Finance report for April
- General Manager/Superintendent report on staffing and course conditions
- Old business: Restaurant, Electric, Golf carts
- New business: Tournaments
The Paramus Golf Commission approved the minutes from the April 6th meeting and discussed several operational updates. The Iron Horse was announced as the new restaurant at the course, and the mini golf course is tentatively set to open Memorial Day Weekend. No formal votes were taken on substantive matters; the meeting was largely informational.
- Approved minutes from April 6th meeting (unanimous)
- Noted Iron Horse as new restaurant at PGC
- Set tentative mini golf opening for Memorial Day Weekend
Recreation Commission
The Paramus Recreation Commission is holding its regular public meeting to discuss routine business, including public comments, finance approvals, and minutes. The agenda includes reports from the Director, Assistant Director, and various committees, with notable items such as the acceptance of a Bergen County Open Space Grant for Mele Park tennis courts and planning for summer playground programs.
- Bergen County Open Space Grant – Mele Park Tennis Courts accepted
- Football/Cheer Opening Day – May 1
- Summer Playground Planning/Interviews
- Softball – Girls/Mens, Lacrosse, Volleyball reports
- Community Room Programs
The Paramus Recreation Commission approved the appointment of three football head coaches and the purchase of equipment, including a trailer and mower, funded from trust accounts pending capital fund approval. The commission also approved the March 2021 minutes and the current financial report unanimously. No other substantive decisions were made.
- Approved March 2021 minutes (unanimous)
- Approved current financial report (unanimous)
- Approved football head coaches: Chris Santos (Senior), Rocco Rinaldi (Junior), James Corso (Pee Wee) (unanimous)
- Ordered 20ft indoor trailer for equipment transport
- Ordered 62" deck mower with collection agency, funded from trust accounts
Board of Adjustment
The Paramus Board of Adjustment holds a virtual public hearing on two variance applications. One is a residential request to add a second story over an existing garage at 265 McKinley Blvd, postponed from April 8. The other is a commercial application by PSE&G for its Paramus Substation at 5 Woodland Avenue, seeking multiple variances for new electrical equipment, lighting masts, setbacks, parking, and buffer areas. The board will also consider minutes, resolutions for three other dockets, and bills.
- PSE&G Paramus Substation, Block 6101 Lot 4, 5 Woodland Ave: variances for 70-ft lighting mast (max 60 ft), 12.7-ft front yard (min 25 ft), equipment in setbacks, no parking, 0% buffer (20% required)
- Docket 7156 Gomez, 265 McKinley Blvd: second level over existing garage, contrary to 20-ft/one-story accessory limit
- Resolutions for Dockets 7158 (Amato), 7159 (Basner), 7157 (Morales)
- Approval of April 8, 2021 minutes
- Virtual meeting via WebEx/telephone, access code 129 731 0858
Board of Adjustment
The Paramus Board of Adjustment will hold a virtual public hearing on April 22, 2021, to consider two variance applications: a residential request to add a second story over a garage at 265 McKinley Blvd, and a commercial request by PSE&G for modifications to its substation at 5 Woodland Avenue. The board will also review minutes, resolutions for three other dockets, and bills.
- Docket 7156 Gomez: second level over garage at 265 McKinley Blvd, contrary to 20-foot height/one-story limit (postponed from April 8)
- Docket 6086-A PSE&G Paramus Substation: 70-foot lighting mast (max 60), 12.7-foot front yard (min 25), no parking, 0% buffer (20% required)
- Resolutions for Dockets 7158 (Amato), 7159 (Basner), 7157 (Morales)
- Approval of April 8, 2021 minutes
Pool Commission
The Paramus Municipal Pool Commission is meeting to approve minutes, hear public comment, and discuss routine operational matters including pool painting, a raised hiring age of 15, and the budget. The agenda is largely procedural with no major policy decisions listed.
- Discussion of painting the pools
- Hiring age raised to 15
- Deep-water bands pricing hold if ordering 10,000
- Tri-Athlon request under old business
- Payment of bills
The Paramus Municipal Pool Commission approved ordering 10,000 deep-water bands at last year's pricing, raised the hiring age to 15, and set guest and daily rates. The commission also noted that the Board of Education will not cover school pool days due to COVID-19, and approved a $7,910 payment to Rapid Pump.
- Approved ordering 10,000 deep-water bands at last year's pricing (unanimous)
- Raised hiring age to 15
- Set guest fees at $20 per adult and $10 per child (under 12), limited to 6 per membership/day
- Set Paramus daily rate at $15 per adult and $10 per child (under 12), with proof of residency
- Approved payment of $7,910 to Rapid Pump
- Approved minutes of 04/08/2021 (unanimous)
Planning Board
The Paramus Planning Board will hold a virtual public hearing on April 15, 2021, to consider several applications, including a minor subdivision, a minor site plan for an archery academy, and a minor site plan for electric vehicle charging stations at Garden State Plaza. The board will also review an ordinance amending swimming pool and hot tub regulations. The meeting will be conducted online and by phone, with public participation allowed.
- NTH 241 W, LLC - Minor subdivision at 241 Route 4 West and Frisch Court, Block 1411, Lots 1 & 8
- SW Archery Academy, LLC - Minor site plan for archery academy/studio at 365 N. Route 17, Block 4301, Lot 8
- Electrify America, LLC - Minor site plan for charging stations at 1 Garden State Blvd, Block 302, Lots 1 & 5 (Garden State Plaza)
- Review of Ordinance #2021-19 to amend Section 429-34 (Swimming Pools & Hot Tubs)
The Paramus Planning Board approved three items: a minor site plan for SW Archery Academy (change of use from bakery to archery studio) at 265 Route 17, a minor site plan for Electrify America's 6 electric vehicle charging stations at Garden State Plaza, and a report recommending Ordinance #2021-19 (amending swimming pool regulations) to the Mayor and Council. All votes were unanimous (7-0). The board also approved vouchers and adopted minutes from the March 23, 2021 meeting.
- Approved Resolution 2021-04 for NTH 241 W, LLC (6-0)
- Approved SW Archery Academy minor site plan at 265 Route 17 (7-0)
- Approved Electrify America 6 EV charging stations at Garden State Plaza (7-0)
- Approved report recommending Ordinance #2021-19 on swimming pools to Mayor and Council (7-0)
- Approved vouchers to be paid (7-0)
- Adopted minutes from March 23, 2021 meeting (7-0)
Mayor & Council
The Mayor and Council will meet to discuss several ordinance amendments regarding police fees, firewood, and swimming pools. The agenda also includes resolutions for municipal appointments, contract awards, and the issuance of up to $20,000,000 in tax anticipation notes.
- Issuance of up to $20,000,000 in 2021 Tax Anticipation Notes
- Award of uniform rental and cleaning services bid to American Wear for $19,442.80 per year
- Award of golf course concession negotiations to Iron Horse Restaurant for $42,000 per year
- Ordinance 2021-17 regarding Police Department fees
- Appointment of Joanna Adamiak as Health Department Director at $94,105.24 per year
The Paramus Mayor and Council held a public meeting where they discussed recreational marijuana, heard from police officials, and approved several ordinances and resolutions. A resolution (21-04-245) was pulled from the agenda after questions from the council. The council also approved appointments, settlements, and various administrative items.
- Approved All American Corvette Club car show (no vote recorded)
- Approved Paramus Elks music events and car shows (no vote recorded)
- Appointed Robert J. Roccoboni to Environmental Commission (6-0)
- Approved minutes of February 23, 2021 (6-0)
- Introduced Ordinances 2021-17, 2021-18, 2021-19 (6-0 each)
- Adopted Ordinances 2021-06, 2021-11, 2021-14, 2021-15, 2021-16 (6-0 each)
- Approved resolutions 21-04-272 and 21-04-273 (6-0 each)
- Adopted consent agenda as amended, removing 21-04-245 (6-0)
🗳️ How they voted (14 roll-call votes)
Mayor & Council
The Paramus Mayor and Council will hold a public meeting on April 13, 2021, to consider resolutions, ordinances, and other municipal business. Key items include authorizing up to $20 million in tax anticipation notes, settling two claims, and introducing ordinances on police fees and firewood processors. The agenda also includes routine approvals of bills, appointments, and personnel actions.
- Resolution 21-04-242: Authorizing issuance of up to $20,000,000 tax anticipation notes for 2021
- Resolution 21-04-243 and 21-04-244: Authorizing settlements of claims by Frank Vitale and Richard Paldino
- Ordinance 2021-17: Amend police department fees; Ordinance 2021-18: Add chapter on firewood and commercial firewood processors
- Resolution 21-04-245: Direct Planning Board to examine Lots 4, 5 & 6 in Block 413 for redevelopment area designation
- Resolution 21-04-247: Award golf course concession to Iron Horse Restaurant at $42,000/year
🗳️ How they voted (14 roll-call votes)
Environmental Commission
The Commission will review requests for exemptions regarding Ordinance 19-16, which regulates retail plastic bags and polystyrene foam. Members will also discuss plans for Earth Day on May 16, 2021, and a polystyrene collection drive.
- Exemption requests for Ordinance 19-16 (Retail Plastic Bags and Polystyrene Foam)
- Earth Day planning for May 16, 2021
- Polystyrene Collection Drive
The Paramus Environmental Commission met virtually and approved the March minutes. No substantive decisions were made; the meeting focused on planning Earth Day activities, including games, a poster walk, and a movie night, as well as a Styrofoam collection drive. A planned clean-up was tabled.
- Approved March minutes (all in favor)
- Tabled clean-up event
- Planned Earth Day activities: bean bag toss, poster walk, movie night
Board of Adjustment
The Paramus Board of Adjustment will hold a virtual public hearing on April 8, 2021, to consider four residential variance applications and one commercial application. The commercial item, a continued application for a Dunkin Donuts at 134 & 137 Gertrude Ave, seeks multiple variances including use, buffer, curb cut, and parking. The board will also consider resolutions for three prior dockets, approve bills, and adopt minutes from March 25, 2021.
- Dunkin Donuts at 134 & 137 Gertrude Ave: use variance, 15-35 ft buffer vs 35 ft required, curb cuts 56-125 ft vs 12-20 ft allowed, parking in front yard, 27 ft building setback vs 100 ft required
- 2 Churchill Court: 6-ft fence in front yard, max 3 ft allowed
- 394 Burlington Road: retain patio with 5-ft side yard vs 8 ft required, 10.5 ft total vs 18 ft required
- 265 McKinley Blvd: second level over garage, height over 20 ft not allowed
- 150 Spring Lane: 12x30 ft inground pool, 2.69 ft rear setback vs 10 ft required
The Board of Adjustment approved the use portion of the Dunkin Donuts application (Docket No. 7133) for MPB Realty on Gertrude Avenue, continuing from February 25, 2021. The board also approved three residential applications: a six-foot fence at 2 Churchill Court (Amato), a patio at 394 Burlington Road (Basner) with a condition, and an inground pool at 150 Spring Lane (Morales). All votes were unanimous.
- Approved Docket No. 7158 (Amato): six-foot fence in front yard setback at 2 Churchill Court, corner lot.
- Approved Docket No. 7159 (Basner): retain patio at 394 Burlington Road, conditioned on patio being even with the edge of the house on the south side.
- Approved Docket No. 7157 (Morales): erect 12x30 inground swimming pool at 150 Spring Lane.
- Approved Docket No. 7133 (MPB Realty): use portion of application to construct a Dunkin Donuts on Gertrude Avenue.
- Approved minutes of March 25, 2021.
- Approved resolution appointing counsel.
- Approved resolutions for Dockets 7149 (Evangelou), 7151 (Hussain), 7155 (Mizrahi), and 7153 (Ahmed).
Pool Commission
The Paramus Municipal Pool Commission is meeting to approve minutes, hear reports, and discuss old and new business. Key items include an update on early bird registration, which has generated $122,795.59 from 396 registrations, and a payment of $7,910.00 to Rapid Pump for an impeller for the slide.
- Early Bird Registration: $122,795.59 revenue, 396 registrations
- Payment to Rapid Pump: $7,910.00 for impeller for the slide
- Old Business: Scarlet contract awaiting dates
- Approval of minutes from 03/25/2021
The Paramus Municipal Pool Commission met on April 8, 2021, and unanimously approved the minutes from the March 25, 2021 meeting. The commission heard that early bird registration brought in $122,795.59 from 396 registrations. It also discussed that the Board of Education will not cover pool days, and approved a $7,910.00 payment to Rapid Pump for an impeller for the slide. The meeting was adjourned unanimously at 7:31 pm.
- Approved the minutes of the 03/25/2021 meeting unanimously.
- Approved payment of $7,910.00 to Rapid Pump for an impeller for the slide.
- Adjourned the meeting unanimously at 7:31 pm.
Golf Commission
The Paramus Golf Commission is holding its regular monthly meeting. The agenda includes approval of the previous meeting's minutes, a finance report for March, and reports from the general manager and superintendent on staffing and course conditions. They will also discuss old business regarding the restaurant and new business on clubhouse electric, lottery, and leagues. The meeting is open to the public with a 5-minute speaking limit.
- Approval of minutes from March 2nd meeting
- Finance report for March
- General Manager/Superintendent report on staffing and course conditions
- Old business: Restaurant
- New business: Clubhouse electric, Lottery, Leagues
The Paramus Golf Commission approved the minutes from its March 2nd meeting. The commission discussed the clubhouse basement flood caused by a failed hot water heater, which closed the clubhouse for five days and left it on a generator. It also noted the mechanic position has been filled but maintenance and seasonal staff vacancies remain. A resident's petition about tournaments will be on the next meeting's agenda.
- Approved the minutes from the March 2nd meeting.
- Noted the clubhouse basement flood from a failed hot water heater, which destroyed electric, furnace, and three hot water heaters, closing the clubhouse for five days.
- Reported the mechanic position has been filled, with maintenance and seasonal staff vacancies remaining.
- Acknowledged a resident's petition about tournaments will be placed on the next meeting's agenda for discussion.
- Scheduled the next meeting for May 4th.
Planning Board
The April 1, 2021 Planning Board public hearing was cancelled because the applicant, BJ's Wholesale Club, requested an adjournment. The next meeting is scheduled for April 15, 2021.
- Meeting cancelled and adjourned by applicant BJ's Wholesale Club
- Application for 30 Route 17, Block 501, Lot 5, Block 502, Lots 9 & 2.02
- Next meeting set for April 15, 2021
Board of Adjustment
The Paramus Board of Adjustment will hold a virtual public hearing on March 25, 2021, to consider three residential applications requesting variances from zoning ordinances. The board will also review resolutions for four prior dockets and approve minutes from the March 11 meeting. All hearings will be conducted online via Webex or by phone.
- Docket 7153: Addition and patio at 798 Arbor Road, exceeding maximum building coverage (25% allowed, 36% proposed)
- Docket 7154: Addition and patio at 732 Myrna Road, with rear yard setback of 20'4" (30' required) and patio setback of 10'8" (20' required)
- Docket 7155: Additions at 323 Ellen Place, with multiple variances for rear yard, side yard, and building coverage
- Resolutions for Dockets 7141 (Pacific Billboard), 7152 (Ridgewood Country Club), 7151 (Hussain), and 7149 (Evangelou)
- Approval of minutes from March 11, 2021 meeting
The Paramus Board of Adjustment approved three residential addition applications (Dockets 7153, 7154, 7155) with conditions, and approved resolutions of denial for two other dockets (7141 and 7135). All votes were unanimous with no opposition.
- Approved Docket 7153 (Ahmed, 798 Arbor Road) with condition that planner review possible side yard variance, included if recommended.
- Approved Docket 7154 (Gupta, 732 Myrna Road) as proposed.
- Approved Docket 7155 (Mizrahi, 323 Ellen Place) with condition to reduce building by 2 feet, creating a 9.8-foot side yard on east side and a 10-foot rear yard.
- Approved resolution of denial for Docket 7141 (Pacific Billboard).
- Approved resolution of denial for Docket 7135 (238 E. Midland LLC).
Pool Commission
The Paramus Municipal Pool Commission is holding a regular meeting to approve minutes from March 11, 2021, and discuss routine matters including the pool manager's report, committee updates, budget, and old business. The agenda is largely procedural, with no major decisions or public hearings listed.
- Approval of minutes from 03/11/2021
- Engineers Report / Pool Manager's Report
- Committee reports: Buildings & Grounds, Snack Bar, Entertainment & Activities, Personnel, Web
- Budget discussion
- Old business: waiting on dates from Scarlet
The Paramus Municipal Pool Commission voted unanimously to approve the minutes from the previous meeting and to stop accepting cash payments at the pool this year, accepting only checks and credit cards. The commission also decided not to offer chair service this year due to COVID-19. No other formal votes were taken; other items, such as guest fees and day pass fees, were discussed but not voted on.
- Approved minutes from 03/11/2021 (unanimous)
- Voted to accept only check and credit card payments at the pool, no cash (unanimous)
- Decided not to offer chair service this year due to COVID-19
Recreation Commission
The Paramus Recreation Commission is holding its regular March 2021 meeting. The agenda includes public comment, finance approvals, and approval of February 2021 meeting minutes. The commission will hear reports from the Council and Board of Education liaisons, the Director, Assistant Director, and Recreation Leader, covering programs like football, cheer, basketball, and softball. Committee reports will be given on various programs and facilities, and the Director's report includes a discussion of project suggestions for a Bergen County Open Space grant.
- Bergen County Open Space Grant – Project Suggestions
- Finance Approval
- Meeting Minutes Approval – February 2021
- Directors Report: Football/Cheer, Spring Spectacular Drive Through, Summer Playground
- Assistant Directors Report: Travel Basketball, Wrestling, Softball, Lacrosse, Volleyball
The Paramus Recreation Commission unanimously approved the February 2021 meeting minutes and the current financial report. The commission also discussed the Director's report, including field readiness, upcoming football and cheer registration, and a potential Bergen County Open Space Grant application for turfing a facility. No other formal decisions were made.
- Approved the February 2021 meeting minutes unanimously.
- Approved the current financial report unanimously.
Mayor & Council
The Paramus Mayor and Council will hold a public meeting to discuss and vote on several items, including a cannabis ordinance, a reassessment update, and requests for food truck festivals at local malls. The agenda also includes ordinances on job descriptions and salaries, a swimming pool fee amendment, and a drainage easement vacation, along with numerous resolutions for payments, appointments, and contracts.
- Discussion of a Cannabis Ordinance
- 2021 Reassessment update by James Anzevino
- Food truck festival requests at Garden State Plaza (May 2, July 11, Oct 3) and Paramus Park (April 25)
- Ordinance 2021-15 and 2021-16 creating new job titles and salary scales for grounds worker and parks maintenance
- Resolution 21-03-218: $170,000 Bergen County Open Space grant agreement
The Paramus Mayor and Council held a public meeting on March 23, 2021, where the main topic of discussion was a potential ordinance to allow recreational marijuana sales. The Borough Attorney explained that the prior ordinance was nullified by new state legislation and the Borough has until August 21, 2021, to adopt a new one. No formal action was taken on this matter, as the Council agreed to continue discussions at a future meeting. The Council did approve several ordinances and resolutions, including the introduction of two new job title ordinances and the final adoption of four ordinances.
- Discussed recreational marijuana ordinance, no vote taken
- Introduced Ordinance 2021-15 creating F/T Grounds Worker title (6-0)
- Introduced Ordinance 2021-16 creating P/T Parks Maintenance title (6-0)
- Adopted Ordinance 2021-08 amending swimming pool fees (6-0)
- Adopted Ordinance 2021-12 vacating drainage easement at 240 Hoppers Lane (6-0)
- Adopted Ordinance 2021-13 amending salaries and compensation (6-0)
- Approved consent agenda including 28 resolutions (6-0)
- Appointed special counsel for Zoning Board (6-0)
🗳️ How they voted (11 roll-call votes)
Planning Board
The Paramus Planning Board is holding a virtual public hearing on a preliminary and final site plan application from 650 From Road, LLC for a parking structure at 650 From Road, Block 6303, Lot 1, which includes a major soil movement variance. The application was carried over from the February 18, 2021 meeting. The board will also consider resolutions, approve minutes, and pay vouchers.
- Public hearing on 650 From Road, LLC site plan for parking structure with major soil movement variance
- Application includes traffic parking assessment, photometric plans, and site plan set
- Meeting held virtually via Webex and teleconference due to COVID-19
- Board to approve minutes from March 18, 2021 and pay approved vouchers
The Paramus Planning Board approved the application by 650 From Road, LLC for a new parking structure, major soil movement, and variance at 650 From Road, Block 6303, Lot 1. The vote was 6-0. The board also approved vouchers to be paid and adopted the minutes from the March 18, 2021 meeting.
- Approved 650 From Road parking structure, major soil movement, and variance (6-0)
- Approved vouchers to be paid (7-0)
- Adopted minutes from March 18, 2021 meeting (7-0)
Board of Health
The Paramus Board of Health is holding a regular meeting to approve minutes, receive staff and committee reports, and discuss old and new business, including the VPOC grant. The agenda is largely procedural, with no specific action items detailed.
- Approval of minutes from February 22, 2021
- Health Officer's Report for January and February 2021
- Discussion of VPOC grant under old business
The Paramus Board of Health met by phone and approved routine items: the February minutes, correspondence, the Health Officer's reports for January and February, and four license resolutions for 2021 covering restaurants, food establishments, vending machines, and a beauty/nail salon. No new business was discussed, and the meeting adjourned at 8:31 pm.
- Approved February minutes as circulated
- Approved correspondence including $130 Hep B reimbursement
- Approved Health Officer's Report for January and February
- Approved Resolution 21-3-1: Restaurant Licenses 2021 (A-FH 112546-112558)
- Approved Resolution 21-3-2: Food Establishment Licenses 2021 (A-FH 112564-112554)
- Approved Resolution 21-3-3: Vending Machine Licenses 2021 (E-VMO 112556-112563)
- Approved Resolution 21-3-4: Beauty/Nail Salon License 2021 (I-BNS 112559)
Planning Board
The board will review a minor subdivision application for 241 Route 4 West and Frisch Court. The meeting also includes reviews of ordinances regarding fences, walls, signs, billboards, and site plan fees.
- Minor Subdivision application for NTH 241 W, LLC at 241 Route 4 West and Frisch Court
- Review of Ordinance # 2021-06 regarding Fences and Walls
- Review of Ordinance # 2021-14 regarding Billboards
- Review of Ordinance # 2021-11 regarding Site Plan Fees
The Paramus Planning Board approved a minor subdivision application by NTH 241 W, LLC for property at 241 Route 4 West and Frisch Court, which involves transferring 6,010 square feet of vacant land from the Ben Porat Yosef School. The board also voted to recommend three ordinance amendments to the Mayor and Council, including changes to site plan fees, fence heights, and billboard regulations. All votes were unanimous (7-0).
- Approved minor subdivision for NTH 241 W, LLC (7-0)
- Approved report recommending ordinance amendments to Mayor and Council (7-0)
- Approved vouchers to be paid (7-0)
- Adopted minutes from February 18, 2021 meeting (7-0)
Board of Adjustment
The Paramus Board of Adjustment will hold a virtual public hearing on March 11, 2021, to consider a commercial application for a self-storage facility at 750 Route 17 N, continued from February 11. The board will also vote on resolutions for several other dockets and approve minutes from a prior meeting.
- Docket 7148: 750 Paramus LLC proposes self-storage at 750 Route 17 N, requiring variances for use, building coverage (32.4% vs 25% max), height (78.75 ft/6 stories vs 36 ft/2 stories), setbacks, buffer, parking, curb cuts, and signage
- Resolutions: Docket 7141 (Pacific Billboard) denial, Docket 7152 (Ridgewood Country Club), Docket 7151 (Hussain), Docket 7149 (Evangelou)
- Minutes approval for February 25, 2021 meeting
Pool Commission
The Paramus Municipal Pool Commission is meeting via Zoom to handle routine business and discuss potential summer rentals. The commission agreed to rent pool time to the Scarlet Swim Team at $100 per hour and is considering a request from Radburn School for a 4th grade graduation party.
- Scarlet Swim Team rental agreed at $100/hour for Sunday mornings and Tuesday/Thursday evenings
- Radburn School considering $250/hour plus guards for a 4th grade party with about 83 students
- Approval of minutes from 02/25/2021
- Payment of $495.00 to Scott Graphics Printing Co for postcards
- Postcards printed and ready to be mailed
The Paramus Municipal Pool Commission approved renting pool time to the Scarlet Swim Team at $100 per hour, pending a start and end date. They also discussed a potential rental for Radburn School's 4th grade party at $250/hour plus guards, but no final agreement was made. The commission approved the minutes and payment of bills, and received three AEDs for the pool.
- Approved Scarlet Swim Team rental at $100/hour (unanimous)
- Approved minutes of 03/11/2021 (unanimous)
- Approved payment of $495.00 to Scott Graphics Printing Co for postcards (unanimous)
Shade Tree & Parks Commission
The commission is reviewing a tree preservation release for 662 East Beverwyck Pl. and discussing revisions to ordinances and the policy manual. The meeting also includes reports on operations, planting, and the Aerial Bucker Truck #402.
- Tree preservation release for 662 East Beverwyck Pl.
- Ordinance revisions by Dan Lagana
- Policy manual revisions
- Aerial Bucker Truck #402 presentation
- Authorization to pay bills
The commission approved tree preservation releases for two addresses and authorized payment of bills. It also discussed the spring planting of 161 trees, repairs to an aerial bucket truck, and the 2021 capital budget. No other substantive decisions were made.
- Approved last month's meeting minutes.
- Approved tree preservation releases for two addresses.
- Authorized payment of bills.
Mayor & Council
The Paramus Mayor and Council will hold a public meeting on March 9, 2021, to consider several ordinances on introduction and final adoption, including changes to swimming pool fees, site plan review, and a drainage easement vacation. They will also vote on resolutions covering a tax settlement, employee payouts, professional contracts, and various bond releases. The agenda includes routine reports and a consent agenda for many resolutions.
- Ordinance 2021-12: Vacating a 20-foot drainage easement at 240 Hoppers Lane
- Resolution 21-03-204: Ratifying settlement of 2021 assessment for Westland Garden State Plaza LP
- Resolution 21-03-205: Accumulated time payout of $6,193.06 to Mark Mengerson
- Resolution 21-03-185: Sick time payout of $102,812.40 to Thomas Damato
- Resolution 21-03-195: Awarding American Asphalt & Milling Services for Midland Avenue road resurfacing
The Paramus Mayor and Council approved a consent agenda including a resolution awarding American Asphalt & Milling Services for road resurfacing on the Midland Avenue Improvement Project. They also introduced five ordinances, including changes to swimming pool fees, site plan review, a drainage easement vacation, a collective bargaining agreement, and billboard rules. The council approved final adoption of three ordinances related to golf club fees, recreation field permits, and golf and country clubs. The meeting was closed to the public for personnel discussion.
- Approved consent agenda including Resolution 21-03-195 awarding American Asphalt & Milling Services for Midland Avenue road resurfacing.
- Introduced Ordinance 2021-08 amending swimming pool fees (6-0).
- Introduced Ordinance 2021-11 amending site plan review site work applications (6-0).
- Introduced Ordinance 2021-12 vacating a 20-foot drainage easement at 240 Hoppers Lane (6-0).
- Introduced Ordinance 2021-13 amending salaries and compensation for collective bargaining agreement 2020-2022 (6-0).
- Introduced Ordinance 2021-14 amending billboard rules and regulations (6-0).
- Adopted final Ordinance 2021-07 amending golf and country club fees (6-0).
- Adopted final Ordinance 2021-09 amending recreation field permit fees (6-0).
🗳️ How they voted (10 roll-call votes)
Environmental Commission
The Paramus Environmental Commission is meeting to discuss ongoing business, including requests for exemptions from the retail plastic bag and polystyrene foam ordinance, planning for Earth Day, and the Green and Clean Paramus Initiative. The meeting is held via Zoom and includes reports from the Borough Council and Planning Board.
- Ordinance 19-16 Regulating Retail Plastic Bags and Polystyrene Foam - exemption requests
- Earth Day Planning - Sunday, May 16, 2021
- Green and Clean Paramus Initiative
- Polystyrene Collection Drive
- Science of Styrofoam Video - Bergen HUB
The Paramus Environmental Commission met virtually and approved the February minutes. Members discussed Earth Day plans with the HOPE club, including tree sapling planting, games, crafts, and a possible Wall-E movie screening, with prizes still to be determined. They also discussed organizing a polystyrene (Styrofoam) recycling drive, with potential dates of June 5, 12, or 19, and educating the public on recyclable EPS foam. No formal decisions were made on these items beyond approving the minutes.
- Approved the February minutes by unanimous vote
- Discussed Earth Day event details with HOPE club, including sapling delivery and volunteer recruitment
- Discussed potential Styrofoam drive dates of June 5, 12, or 19, pending confirmation
- Discussed seeking grants to replace old trash cans at parks
- Discussed need to educate public on recyclable EPS vs. XPS foam
Planning Board
The March 4, 2021 Planning Board public hearing meeting was cancelled. The BJ's Wholesale Club application (30 Route 17, Block 501, Lot 5, Block 502, Lots 9 & 2.02) was adjourned by the applicant and carried to the April 1, 2021 meeting. The next meeting is March 18, 2021, for A2 Enterprises, LLC (697 Paramus Road & 143 W. Ridgewood Avenue, Block 6701, Lots 6 & 7), carried from January 7, 2021.
- BJ's Wholesale Club application postponed to April 1, 2021
- A2 Enterprises, LLC hearing scheduled for March 18, 2021
- Meeting held virtually via Webex/teleconference
Golf Commission
The Paramus Golf Commission is holding its regular monthly meeting. The agenda includes approval of the previous meeting's minutes, a finance report for February, and reports from the General Manager/Superintendent on staffing and course conditions. Old business items include the restaurant and tee time access, and the meeting is open to the public for comments.
- Approval of February 2nd meeting minutes
- Finance report for February
- General Manager/Superintendent report on staffing and course conditions
- Old business: restaurant and tee time access
- Public comment period (5 minutes max per person)
The Paramus Golf Commission approved new greens fees and began taking memberships on February 25th, despite a February revenue decrease of 82% due to snow and delayed registrations. The commission also approved minutes from the February 2nd meeting and discussed staffing and the upcoming online reservation system.
- Approved new greens fees for the season
- Approved minutes from February 2nd meeting
- Began taking memberships on February 25th
Board of Adjustment
The Paramus Board of Adjustment will hold a virtual public hearing on February 25, 2021, to consider several residential and commercial variance applications. The board will hear continued cases for a fence and a rear addition, as well as commercial proposals for residential units and a Dunkin Donuts. The board will also vote on resolutions for three prior dockets and approve minutes from its February 11 meeting.
- Continued: 6-foot front-yard fence at 697 Roosevelt Blvd (Docket 7151)
- Continued: two-story rear addition at 195 Denver Road (Docket 7149)
- Continued: 8 residential units at 238-234 Midland Ave (Docket 7135)
- Postponed: Dunkin Donuts at 134 & 137 Gertrude Ave (Docket 7133)
- Resolutions for Dockets 7146, 7152, 7148
The Board of Adjustment denied a use variance for a multi-family residential development at 238 Midland Ave, despite the applicant's hardship arguments, citing traffic and zoning concerns. It approved a six-foot front-yard fence at 697 Roosevelt Blvd and a two-story rear addition at 195 Denver Road. A Dunkin Donuts application was continued to April 8, 2021.
- Approved Docket No. 7151: six-foot fence in front yard at 697 Roosevelt Blvd (unanimous).
- Approved Docket No. 7149: two-story rear addition at 195 Denver Road (unanimous).
- Denied Docket No. 7135: multi-family residential construction at 238 Midland Ave (6-1, Gunderson opposed).
- Continued Docket No. 7133: Dunkin Donuts facility at 134 Gertrude Ave to April 8, 2021.
- Approved February 11, 2021 meeting minutes (unanimous).
Pool Commission
The Paramus Municipal Pool Commission is meeting to approve minutes, discuss correspondence, and review committee reports. Key items include potential rentals to the Scarlet Swim Team and Radburn School, as well as confirming rates for swim lessons, guest passes, and Paramus day passes.
- Scarlet Swim Team rental interest for summer nights
- Radburn School 4th grade party request for June 7-11
- Swim lesson schedule and rate confirmation
- Member guest pass rate confirmation
- Paramus day pass confirmation details
The Paramus Municipal Pool Commission approved a season rental for the YMCA at $14,000. It also agreed to rent to Scarlet Swim Team at $100 per hour, approved a private party rate of $250/hour plus guards for Radburn School, and approved lending a projector to the Environmental Commission for Earth Day. The minutes from 02/11/2021 were approved unanimously.
- Approved YMCA rental request at $14,000 for the season.
- Agreed to $100 per hour rental rate for Scarlet Swim Team.
- Agreed to private party rental rate of $250/hour plus guards for Radburn School.
- Approved lending projector to Environmental Commission for Earth Day event on May 16.
- Approved minutes from 02/11/2021 unanimously.
Recreation Commission
The Paramus Recreation Commission is holding a regular public meeting to discuss and potentially approve the 2021 program fee list, as well as receive updates on youth sports, summer playground, and a special drive-through event. The agenda includes public comment, finance approval, and minutes approval, but no major policy decisions are listed.
- 2021 Program Fee List Approval
- 2021 Tackle & Cheer Program update
- Spring Spectacular Drive Through on March 27, 2021 at Petruska
- Youth sports updates: basketball, wrestling, softball, lacrosse, volleyball
- Summer Playground update
The Paramus Recreation Commission unanimously approved the 2021 Program Fee List, with some fees slightly increased and others unchanged, aiming for eventual self-sufficiency. The commission also approved the January financial report and meeting minutes. Updates were provided on youth sports, including a new football board, summer playground plans, and a drive-through spring celebration.
- Approved January financial report (unanimous)
- Approved January meeting minutes (unanimous)
- Approved 2021 Program Fee List (unanimous)
Mayor & Council
The Paramus Mayor and Council will hold a public meeting with resolutions authorizing payment of bills totaling over $6.7 million, several personnel appointments and retirements, and two ordinances amending golf and country club fees. The agenda also includes professional service contracts, tax refunds, and two raffle applications.
- Ordinance 2021-07 and 2021-10 to amend golf and country club fees
- Resolution 21-02-142 authorizing payment of bills totaling $6,788,621.96
- Resolution 21-02-148: Boswell Engineering proposal for $6,000 for NJDEP stormwater compliance
- Resolution 21-02-149: Boswell Engineering proposal for $5,000 for Tier A stormwater permitting
- Resolution 21-02-159: Step up of patrol officers to Step 6 at $103,820/year
The Paramus Mayor and Council unanimously approved a consent agenda containing 25 resolutions, including payments, tax refunds, professional service contracts, and personnel appointments. Two ordinances amending golf and country club fees were introduced. The meeting also included reports on COVID-19 cases, snow removal, and polling place changes.
- Approved consent agenda with 25 resolutions (6-0)
- Introduced Ordinance 2021-07 amending golf and country club fees (6-0)
- Introduced Ordinance 2021-10 amending golf and country club chapter (6-0)
- Approved minutes of Jan 5 and Jan 19 meetings (6-0)
- Authorized $6,000 for Boswell Engineering stormwater compliance
- Authorized $5,000 for Boswell Engineering stormwater permitting
- Appointed Alfred J. DeRosa II as EMT at $17.82/hour
- Promoted Matthew Mitchell to Supervising Librarian at $89,762.66/year
🗳️ How they voted (5 roll-call votes)
Mayor & Council
The Paramus Mayor and Council will hold a public meeting with resolutions covering personnel appointments, professional service contracts, and payments. Two ordinances amending golf and country club fees will be introduced. The agenda also includes a $6.8 million purchase order list for approval.
- Ordinance 2021-07 and 2021-10 to amend golf and country club fees
- Appointment of Enrica DeGennaro as Finance Senior Account Clerk at $36,757.95 annually
- Resolution authorizing agreement with New Prince Concrete Construction
- Resolution to provide matching funds for library construction bond act
- Payment of bills totaling $6,788,621.96
The Paramus Mayor and Council unanimously approved a consent agenda containing 25 resolutions, including payments, tax refunds, professional service contracts, appointments, and a library grant match. Two ordinances were introduced to amend golf and country club fees. The meeting also included reports on COVID-19 cases, snow removal, and election polling place changes.
- Approved consent agenda with 25 resolutions (6-0)
- Introduced Ordinance 2021-07 amending golf and country club fees (6-0)
- Introduced Ordinance 2021-10 amending golf and country club chapter (6-0)
- Approved minutes of Jan 5 and Jan 19 meetings (6-0)
- Approved $6,000 Boswell Engineering stormwater compliance proposal
- Approved $5,000 Boswell Engineering stormwater permitting proposal
- Approved appointment of Alfred J. DeRosa II as EMT at $17.82/hr
- Approved promotion of Matthew Mitchell to Supervising Librarian at $89,762.66/yr
🗳️ How they voted (5 roll-call votes)
Board of Health
The Paramus Board of Health approved the Health Officer's 2020 Annual Report, which focused on COVID-19 response, and approved multiple 2021 license resolutions for restaurants, food establishments, beauty/nail salons, e-cigarettes, pet shops, and vending machines. The board also approved minutes from the January 25 meeting and correspondence, including a request from the County DPW for aerial mosquito spraying. No other substantive decisions were made; the meeting included reports on a state grant and committee assignments.
- Approved minutes of January 25 meeting
- Approved correspondence including DPW mosquito spraying request
- Approved 2020 Annual Report as submitted
- Approved Resolution 21-2-1 Restaurant Licenses 2021
- Approved Resolution 21-2-2 Food Establishment Licenses 2021
- Approved Resolution 21-2-3 Beauty/Nail Salon Licenses 2021
- Approved Resolution 21-2-4 e-Cigarette Licenses 2021
- Approved Resolution 21-2-5 Pet Shop License and 21-2-6 Vending Machine Licenses 2021
Planning Board
The Paramus Planning Board is holding a virtual public hearing on February 18, 2021, to consider a preliminary and final site plan for a parking structure with major soil movement and variances at 650 From Road. The board will also discuss two conceptual proposals: a subdivision at 155 Midwood Road and a proposed building by Bergen Technical Schools at 275 Pascack Road. The meeting includes public comment and approval of prior minutes and vouchers.
- 650 From Rd, LLC – 650 From Road, Block 6303, Lot 1 – Preliminary & Final Site Plan for parking structure, major soil movement, variance
- Conceptual: 155 Midwood Road, Block 4108, Lot 9 – Subdivision
- Conceptual: Board of Education-Bergen Technical Schools – 275 Pascack Road, Block 6404, Lots 1 & 2 – Proposed building
- Public hearing held virtually via Webex/teleconference
- Approval of January 21, 2021 minutes and vouchers
The Paramus Planning Board held a virtual meeting on February 18, 2021, with two conceptual presentations and one hearing. The board heard a conceptual proposal for a minor subdivision at 155 Midwood Road and a proposed new classroom building for Bergen Technical Schools, but took no binding action on either. The board carried the application for a parking structure at 650 From Road to a special meeting on March 23, 2021, after requesting more information on future development, lighting, and traffic. The board approved vouchers and adopted the January 21, 2021 minutes unanimously.
- Carried 650 From Road parking structure application to special March 23, 2021 meeting
- Approved vouchers to be paid (6-0)
- Adopted minutes from January 21, 2021 meeting (6-0)
Mayor & Council
The Paramus Mayor and Council will hold a public meeting on February 16, 2021, to discuss and vote on several items, including a proposed rate adjustment for Paramus Pool fees, introduction of ordinances amending fence regulations and fee schedules, and final adoption of ordinances on employment positions and zoning definitions. The council will also consider resolutions to hire a new borough administrator, approve various contracts, and handle routine matters like bill payments and tax appeals. Public comments will be accepted.
- Rate adjustment for Paramus Pool fees recommended by Pool Commission
- Ordinance 2021-06: amend Chapter 429-40, Fences and Walls
- Ordinance 2021-09: amend Chapter A460, Fees
- Resolution 21-02-119: hire Joseph D'Arco as Borough Administrator
- Resolution 21-02-107: transfer liquor license to 396 State Route 17 North
The Paramus Mayor and Council approved several ordinances on introduction and final reading, including amendments to fence regulations, fees, and zoning definitions. They also approved a consent agenda of resolutions covering payments, licenses, tax appeals, and personnel actions, and appointed Dana Folcarelli to the Board of Health and Emil Trione to the Board of Adjustment. All votes were 3-0 with three members absent.
- Approved ordinance 2021-06 amending fence and wall regulations (3-0)
- Approved ordinance 2021-09 amending fee schedule (3-0)
- Approved final ordinances 2021-02 through 2021-05 on employment positions, zoning definitions, rear yard setbacks, and fee schedule (3-0 each)
- Approved consent agenda including payment of bills, liquor license transfer, tax appeal settlements, and personnel actions (3-0)
- Appointed Dana Folcarelli to Board of Health and Emil Trione to Board of Adjustment (3-0)
- Approved resolution 21-02-119 hiring Joseph D'Arco as Borough Administrator (3-0)
- Approved resolution 21-02-127 promoting Lisa Sedita to Circulation Supervisor at $71,400/year (3-0)
- Approved resolution 21-02-103 to 21-02-105 disclosing closed session minutes in LaBarbiera v. Vartolone (3-0)
🗳️ How they voted (12 roll-call votes)
Board of Adjustment
The Paramus Board of Adjustment will hold a virtual public hearing on two commercial applications. One involves a change of use at the Ridgewood Country Club for staff housing and a new storage building. The other is a proposal by 750 Paramus LLC to demolish existing structures and build a six-story self-storage facility at 750 Route 17 North, which requires multiple variances. The board will also consider a resolution for Docket No. 7146 and approve minutes from the January 14 meeting.
- Docket No. 7152: Ridgewood Country Club — change use of office/storage building to staff residence, new storage building, keep Coe Road gate for emergency use (housing not a permitted use).
- Docket No. 7148: 750 Paramus LLC — demolish structures and build six-story self-storage at 750 Route 17 North; requests variances for height (78.75 ft vs 36 ft), coverage (32.4% vs 25%), setbacks, parking, curb cuts, signage, and design waivers.
- Public hearing to be held virtually via Webex and telephonically; applications and plans available on borough website.
- New business: resolution for Docket No. 7146 (Think Enterprises).
- Minutes of January 14, 2021 to be approved.
The Board of Adjustment approved an application by Ridgewood Country Club to upgrade employee housing in Building #1, convert Building #2 back to employee housing, and construct Building #3 for storage. The approval also allows the retention of an emergency gate on Coe Road and a berm installed in 1990. The vote was unanimous (7-0).
- Approved Ridgewood Country Club application for employee housing and storage (7-0)
- Continued Docket No. 7148 (750 Paramus LLC self-storage facility) to March 11, 2021
- Approved resolution for Docket No. 7146 (Think Enterprises)
- Approved resolution for Docket No. 7150 (Viradia)
- Approved minutes from January 28, 2021 meeting
Pool Commission
The Paramus Municipal Pool Commission is meeting via Zoom to approve minutes, hear public comment, and discuss a Recreation Department request for four Friday morning pool sessions in July 2021. The request covers dates July 2, 9, 23, and 30, from 9 AM to 12 PM, for up to 100 children per session divided by grade. The commission will also receive engineer and pool manager reports, committee updates, and handle budget and bill payments.
- Recreation request for 4 Friday sessions: July 2, 9, 23, 30, 9 AM-12 PM
- Up to 100 children per session, grades 2nd to 8th, divided into 2 groups
- Request includes use of main and intermediate pools, swim tests for slide, and equipment
- Approval of minutes from 01-24-2021
- Payment of bills and budget review
The Paramus Municipal Pool Commission approved a recreation department request for four Friday morning sessions in July, each up to 100 children, with staff present and swim tests for slide use. The commission also agreed to paint the registration office floor with non-slip flooring, discussed raising swim lesson rates to $10 per class, and considered closing the facility at 7 PM to save payroll and allow rentals. No final decisions were made on rates or hours.
- Approved recreation request for 4 Friday morning sessions (unanimous)
- Approved non-slip flooring for registration office (unanimous)
- Approved minutes of 01-24-2021 (unanimous)
Shade Tree & Parks Commission
The commission is reviewing tree preservation releases for 309 Oradell Avenue and 282 Herbert Place. The meeting includes updates on 2021 capital requests, COVID-19 status, and recent snow accumulation totals.
- Tree Preservation Release: 309 Oradell Avenue
- Tree Preservation Release: 282 Herbert Place
- Spring Planting update
- Snow event report: 29 inches total between January 31 and February 8
The Shade Tree & Parks Commission appointed D. Preis as Chairman, C. Hittel as Vice Chairman, and S. Dahl as Commission Secretary for 2021. They approved releasing one tree preservation bond at 210 Concord Drive while holding the other for two more years, and released bonds for addresses #3-7 with no issues. The commission also approved a motion to pass multiple tree preservation releases at once, and voted to start future meetings at 7:00 p.m. instead of 7:30 p.m.
- Appointed D. Preis as Chairman (all in favor)
- Appointed C. Hittel as Vice Chairman (all in favor)
- Appointed S. Dahl as Commission Secretary (all in favor)
- Approved release of one tree bond at 210 Concord Drive, held other for 2 additional years (all in favor)
- Approved motion to pass multiple tree preservation releases at once (all in favor)
- Released tree preservation bonds for addresses #3-7 (all in favor)
- Approved authorization to pay bills (all in favor)
- Approved starting meetings at 7:00 p.m. (all in favor)
Mayor & Council
The February 9, 2021 Mayor & Council meeting is cancelled due to technical difficulties and rescheduled for February 16, 2021 at 7:00 PM in the Caucus Room of Borough Hall. The agenda contains only this cancellation notice and no items for discussion or decision.
- Meeting cancelled due to technical difficulties
- Rescheduled to Tuesday, February 16, 2021 at 7:00 PM
- Location: Caucus Room, Borough Hall, One Jockish Square, Paramus NJ 07652
- Public comment by phone or email to boroclerk@paramusborough.org
Mayor & Council
The Paramus Mayor and Council will hold a work session and public meeting to discuss and vote on several items, including a proposed rate adjustment for Paramus Pool fees, the hiring of a new borough administrator, and multiple ordinances on introduction and final adoption. The agenda also includes resolutions for professional contracts, tax appeals, and various administrative matters.
- Rate adjustment for Paramus Pool fees recommended by the Pool Commission
- Ordinance 2021-06 to amend Chapter 429-40 (Fences and Walls)
- Ordinance 2021-09 to amend Chapter A460 (Fees)
- Resolution 21-02-119: Hiring Joseph D'Arco as Borough Administrator
- Resolution 21-02-117: Lease-to-buy agreement with NJ Fire Equipment for breathing apparatus
Environmental Commission
The Paramus Environmental Commission is meeting to discuss old business, including Ordinance 19-16 on retail plastic bags and polystyrene foam, Earth Day planning, and a resident request to clean an area on Fairview. They will also hear reports from the Borough Council, Planning Board, and social media.
- Ordinance 19-16 Regulating Retail Plastic Bags and Polystyrene Foam - requests for exemption
- Earth Day Planning - Sunday, May 16, 2021
- Green and Clean Paramus Initiative
- Polystyrene Collection Drive
- Resident request to clean area on Fairview east of police station
Planning Board
The February 4, 2021 Planning Board public hearing meeting was cancelled and adjourned by the applicant. The next meeting is scheduled for February 18, 2021. No items were discussed or decided.
- Meeting cancelled and adjourned by the applicant
Golf Commission
The Paramus Golf Commission is holding a teleconference meeting to approve minutes, review the January finance report, and hear the General Manager/Superintendent report on staffing and course conditions. Old business includes the restaurant and tee time access, while new business covers field division and policies. The public can participate by phone.
- Approval of minutes from January 12th and 19th meetings
- Finance report for January
- General Manager/Superintendent report on staffing and course conditions
- Old business: restaurant and tee time access
- New business: Field Division & Policies
Board of Adjustment
The Paramus Board of Adjustment will hold public hearings on four variance applications: a front-yard fence, a rear addition, a shed without a permit, and a large digital billboard. The board will also consider minutes and bills. The billboard application is continued from a previous meeting.
- Docket 7151: 6-foot solid fence in front yard at 697 Roosevelt Boulevard (corner lot), contrary to 3-foot limit
- Docket 7149: Two-story rear addition at 195 Denver Road, proposed 19.58-foot setback vs. required 30 feet
- Docket 7150: Retain 14x20-foot shed without permit at 168 Morningside Road, 6-foot side yard setback vs. required 10 feet
- Docket 7141: 60-foot high, double-faced digital billboard at 175 Route 4 West, proposed 960 SF sign area vs. 36 SF max, continued from Nov. 5, 2020
The Paramus Board of Adjustment denied a commercial application for a 50-foot tall double-faced digital billboard at 175 Route 4 West, citing lack of public benefit and the site not being included in the borough's revised ordinance. The board also approved a residential application to retain a shed at 168 Morningside Road and continued two other residential applications to February 25, 2021.
- Denied Pacific Outdoor Advertising billboard application (6-0)
- Approved shed retention at 168 Morningside Road (6-0)
- Continued fence application at 697 Roosevelt Avenue to Feb 25, 2021
- Continued addition application at 195 Denver Road to Feb 25, 2021
- Approved minutes of January 14, 2021 (5-0)
Pool Commission
The Paramus Municipal Pool Commission denied a summer camp's request to rent pool facilities, citing the request was received for the first time and could not be accommodated. The commission also discussed proposed rate changes, including a 10% increase, an early bird discount, and discounts for teachers and police officers, which were submitted to the Mayor and Council for approval.
- Denied summer camp rental request (unanimous)
- Approved minutes from 01-14-2021 (unanimous)
- Adjourned meeting (unanimous)
Recreation Commission
The Commission is meeting to review the 2021 program fee list and field rental fees. The agenda includes reports on youth sports, spring sports preparation, and capital requests for park evaluations.
- Approval of 2021 Program Fee List
- Approval of 2021 Field Rental Fees
- Youth Sports updates including Basketball and Wrestling
- 2021 Tackle & Cheer Program discussion
- Summer Playground - Certified Child Care Center
Board of Health
The Paramus Board of Health will hold its annual reorganization meeting, electing officers and making appointments for 2021. The board will also vote on several resolutions, including approving the 2021 operating budget, authorizing payments, and entering into agreements with Holy Name Hospital for occupational health services and Valley Hospital for health education services.
- Resolution 21-1-6: Approval of Payments
- Resolution 21-1-7: Rabies Immunization Clinic on May 6
- Resolution 21-1-8: Agreement with Holy Name Hospital for occupational health services
- Resolution 21-1-9: Agreement with Valley Hospital for health education services
- Resolution 21-1-10: Approval of 2021 operating budget
The Board of Health held its regular meeting and reorganization, approving the 2021 operating budget, staff appointments, and numerous licenses. The board also authorized agreements with Holy Name Hospital and Valley Hospital for occupational health and health education services, and set the 2021 meeting schedule. No substantive decisions were made beyond these approvals.
- Approved 2021 operating budget (3-0)
- Approved staff appointments for 2021 (3-0)
- Approved agreement with Holy Name Hospital for occupational health services (3-0)
- Approved agreement with Valley Hospital for health education services (3-0)
- Approved 2021 meeting schedule (3-0)
- Approved food handling, e-cigarette, beauty/nail salon, pet shop, body art, swimming pool, and vending machine licenses (3-0)
- Approved rabies immunization program for May 6, 2021 (3-0)
- Deferred appointment of Secretary and committee assignments to next meeting
Planning Board
The Paramus Planning Board is conducting a public hearing regarding a site plan for BJ’s Wholesale Club at 30 Route 17. The discussion includes reviewing various technical reports, drainage plans, and signage for a proposed fueling station.
- Site plan and signage for a fueling station at 30 Route 17
- Minor site plan for Durante Physical Therapy, LLC at 58 E. Midland Avenue
- Review of hydrology, stormwater management, and traffic assessment reports for BJ's Wholesale Club
- Review of revised drainage plans and engineering reports for 30 Route 17
The Paramus Planning Board approved Resolution 2021-03 for Durante Physical Therapy, LLC, and reappointed Stephen F. Pellino, Esq. as Board Attorney for 2021. The board continued the hearing for BJ's Wholesale Club's proposed fueling station at 30 Route 17 South, discussing spill prevention, lighting, and traffic, but carried the application to the March 4, 2021 meeting without a decision. Vouchers and minutes from January 7, 2021 were approved.
- Approved Resolution 2021-03 for Durante Physical Therapy, LLC (8-0)
- Reappointed Stephen F. Pellino, Esq. as Board Attorney for 2021 (unanimous)
- Approved vouchers to be paid (8-0)
- Adopted minutes from January 7, 2021 meeting (8-0)
- Carried BJ's Wholesale Club fueling station application to March 4, 2021
Mayor & Council
The Paramus Mayor and Council will hold a regular public meeting on January 19, 2021, at 6:00 PM. The agenda includes a special presentation on the Life Safety Building, introduction of several ordinances (including zoning and fee schedule changes), and a large number of resolutions authorizing one-year contracts for professional services (attorney, engineer, planner, etc.) for 2021. The council will also consider appointments, resignations, and various administrative items.
- Introduction of Ordinance 2021-02 creating new title and updating job description and salary scale for EMS
- Introduction of Ordinance 2021-03 amending zoning definitions (Chapter 429)
- Introduction of Ordinance 2021-04 amending minimum yard depth and rear yard setback (Chapter 429-29)
- Introduction of Ordinance 2021-05 amending fee schedule (Chapter 429-215)
- Resolution 21-01-75 authorizing police to acquire a PackBot robot via federal 1033 program
The Paramus Mayor and Council approved a series of one-year professional services contracts for 2021, including borough attorney, architect, engineer, and other roles. Several contracts passed with split votes, including the borough attorney (4-3) and labor counsel for contracts (4-3). The council also introduced four ordinances, including one to create a new EMS title and salary scale, and authorized the borough engineer to proceed with bike lanes on Midland Avenue.
- Approved 2021 borough attorney contract with DeCotiis, FitzPatrick, Cole & Giblin LLP (4-3)
- Approved 2021 borough architect contract with DMR Architects (6-0)
- Approved 2021 borough engineer contract with Boswell Engineering (6-0)
- Approved 2021 labor counsel for contracts with Kaufman Semeraro & Leibman, LLC (4-3)
- Introduced Ordinance 2021-02 creating new EMS title and salary scale (6-0)
- Introduced Ordinance 2021-03 amending zoning definitions (6-0)
- Authorized borough engineer to proceed with bike lanes on Midland Avenue
- Appointed Elaine Casiello and Dominick Minervini to Ethics Board (6-0)
🗳️ How they voted — 6 divided votes
Golf Commission
The Paramus Golf Commission is holding a continuation meeting via teleconference to discuss and potentially decide on golf course tee time access, fees for 2021, and cart fees. The public can participate by phone, with a 5-minute speaking limit per person.
- Golf course tee time access
- Fees for 2021
- Cart fees
- Public comment period (5 minutes max per person)
The Paramus Golf Commission unanimously approved a 20% increase in greens fees for Paramus residents, new tee time booking rules, cancellation of most shotgun outings, and cart fee changes. The commission also set a new lottery date of March 27, 2021, with a March 21 deadline for applications.
- Approved 20% increase in resident greens fees (unanimous)
- Approved tee time booking: residents can book 33% of tee times at 6am, rest at 7am (unanimous)
- Approved 24-hour modification/cancellation rule for tee times with warnings and membership revocation for repeat violations (unanimous)
- Cancelled all shotgun outings for 2021 except Paramus Fire and Paramus Rotary (unanimous)
- Approved evening leagues must pay membership registration (unanimous)
- Approved cart fees: $17 per person, $34 for solo cart (unanimous)
- Delayed lottery to March 27, 2021, with application deadline March 21, 2021
Board of Adjustment
The Paramus Board of Adjustment is holding a reorganization meeting and public hearings, including a commercial application from Think Enterprise, Inc. for an addition to an existing building at 148 Spring Valley Road for a Kumon Math Center, which requires variances for curb cut width and buffer area setback. The board will also consider resolutions for several other dockets and approve minutes from the December 10 meeting.
- Public hearing: Think Enterprise, Inc., Docket No. 7146, 148 Spring Valley Road, addition for Kumon Math Center, variances for curb cut (50 ft vs 30 ft permitted) and buffer setback (0-25 ft vs 25 ft required)
- Resolution: Docket No. 7136 – Akdimir
- Resolution: Docket No. 7143 – Peros/Biagios
- Resolution: Docket No. 7117 – Laganella (subject)
- Resolution: Docket No. 6096 – Laganella (Design Center)
The Board of Adjustment unanimously approved an application by Think Enterprise, Inc. to construct an addition to an existing building at 148 Spring Valley Road for use as a school. The board also approved resolutions for several other dockets, including a denial for Docket No. 7136. The meeting included reorganization appointments for 2021.
- Approved Think Enterprise school addition at 148 Spring Valley Road (5-0)
- Approved resolution for Docket No. 7136 (Akdimir) denial (4-0)
- Approved resolution for Docket No. 7143 (Peros/Biagios) (4-0)
- Approved resolution for Docket No. 6096 (Laganella Properties) (3-0)
- Approved resolution for Docket No. 7117 (Laganella Properties) (3-0)
- Approved minutes from December 10, 2020 (3-0)
- Reappointed Peter Caminiti as Chairman for 2021 (5-0)
- Appointed Joseph Cirillo as Vice-Chairman for 2021 (5-0)
Pool Commission
The Paramus Municipal Pool Commission is holding a routine meeting via Zoom. The agenda includes approval of minutes, public comment, committee reports, budget discussion, and payment of bills. No major decisions or proposals are listed.
- Approval of minutes from 12/10/2020
- Public comment period
- Correspondence: East Brook 8th Grade Pool Day on Friday, June 11th
- Committee reports: Buildings & Grounds, Snack Bar, Entertainment & Activities, Personnel, Web
- Budget discussion and payment of bills
Shade Tree & Parks Commission
The commission is reviewing several requests for tree preservation releases and one appeal. The body will also discuss year-end reports for Tree City USA and the Emerald Ash Borer treatment program.
- Tree Preservation Release requests for 224 Concord Drive, 60 Harvey Avenue, 205 Thomas Drive, 533 Green Valley Road, and 170 Behnke Avenue
- Appeal for partial preservation holding at 210 Concord Drive
- Request for replacement tree at Vivian Court
- Emerald Ash Borer treatment contractor and overtime request
- Year-end reports for Tree City USA and NJUCF
The Shade Tree & Parks Commission discussed and amended its tree removal policy, allowing residents who dislike a town tree to pay an assessed value (capped at $5,000) plus a $350 planting fee, receive a free permit, and have the tree removed at their own cost. The commission also approved the release of a tree at 159 Birchwood Road and authorized bill payments. No formal vote was recorded on the policy change, which is still being finalized with legal counsel.
- Approved removal of tree at 111 Willowbrook Court (marked for removal)
- Approved release of tree at 159 Birchwood Road (all in favor)
- Discussed amended tree removal policy: $5,000 cap, $350 planting fee, free permit
- Authorized payment of bills (all in favor)
- Approved last month's minutes (all in favor)
Golf Commission
The Paramus Golf Commission is holding a teleconference meeting to approve minutes, elect a chairman and vice chairman, and receive reports on finances and course operations. They will also discuss old business such as the restaurant, land purchase, pond project, and water permit, and new business including tee time access, 2021 fees, and cart fees. The public can participate by phone.
- Election of Chairman and Vice Chairman
- Finance report for December
- Discussion of golf course tee time access
- Fees for 2021 and cart fees
- Old business: restaurant, land purchase, pond project, water permit
The Paramus Golf Commission voted unanimously to continue allowing residents to book tee times one day in advance, maintaining the current trial program. The commission also elected Stuart Clark as Chairman and Pete Caminiti Sr as Vice Chairman, and discussed a proposed 20% resident advance booking policy, fee increases, and the upcoming golf concession bid negotiations. No final decision was made on fee changes or the 20% policy, with a continuation meeting planned.
- Elected Stuart Clark as Chairman (motion by Pete Caminiti Sr, seconded by Ralph Amato)
- Elected Pete Caminiti Sr as Vice Chairman (motion by Stuart Clark, seconded by Ralph Amato)
- Approved minutes from December 1st meeting (motion by Stuart Clark, seconded by Pete Caminiti Sr)
- Unanimously voted to continue advance booking for residents one day in advance (motion by Vice Chairman, seconded by Chairman)
Environmental Commission
This is a procedural agenda for the Paramus Environmental Commission's January 11, 2021 meeting, held via Zoom. The meeting includes standard items like call to order, pledge, roll call, and approval of minutes, with reports from the Borough Council and Planning Board. No specific decisions or discussions are listed.
- Approval of minutes
- Borough Council Report
- Planning Board Report
- Old Business
- New Business
The Paramus Environmental Commission met virtually and approved the December minutes. They discussed plans for an Earth Day event, deciding to vote in February on whether to hold it in person or virtually, and set a goal to plant 245 trees through a school partnership. They also discussed a resident request to clean up borough property on Farview Avenue and potential recycling drives.
- Approved December minutes (all in favor)
- Scheduled vote for February on Earth Day format (in-person vs. virtual)
- Set goal to plant 245 trees; 100 planted so far
- Forwarded Farview Ave cleanup request to Shade Tree Department
- Discussed hosting polystyrene collection at DPW
- Discussed Sustainable NJ Gold status actions (microgrid, EV charging stations)
Planning Board
The Paramus Planning Board will hold a virtual public hearing on several site plan applications, including a change of use for a salon, an amended site plan for a yeshiva, a physical therapy office, and a mixed-use development with a major soil movement permit. The board will also review an ordinance amending the zoning code regarding cannabis dispensaries, as requested by the Mayor and Council.
- Strand Salon Studios, LLC - 231 Route 4 West, Block 1411, Lot 3 - Minor Site Plan for change of use
- Yeshiva Noam, Yeshiva of Bergen County - 70 W. Century Road, Block 1802, Lot 3.1 - Amended Site Plan with variances for parking, fence, accessory structure
- Durante Physical Therapy, LLC - 58 E. Midland Avenue, Space A, Block 4303, Lots 1 & 2 - Minor Site Plan
- A2 Enterprises, LLC - 697 Paramus Rd & 143 W. Ridgewood Ave, Block 6701, Lots 6 & 7 - Preliminary & Final Site Plan, Variance, Major Soil Movement Permit
- Review of ordinance amending Paramus Chapter 429, Zoning, regarding cannabis dispensaries
The Paramus Planning Board reorganized for 2021, swearing in members and officers, then approved two resolutions and a minor site plan. The board approved Resolution 2021-0 for Strand Salon Studios and Resolution 2021-02 for Yeshivat Noam, both unanimously (5-0). A minor site plan for Durante Physical Therapy at 58 E. Midland Avenue was approved 8-0, with a condition that signage prohibit left turns out of the parking lot. A larger application for a bank and CVS at 697 Paramus Road was carried to a future meeting.
- Reorganized board for 2021, electing Peter Caminiti as Chairman and Richard Conte as Vice Chairman
- Approved Resolution 2021-0 for Strand Salon Studios (5-0)
- Approved Resolution 2021-02 for Yeshivat Noam (5-0)
- Approved minor site plan for Durante Physical Therapy at 58 E. Midland Avenue (8-0)
- Approved vouchers to be paid (7-0)
- Adopted minutes from December 17, 2020 meeting (7-0)
- Carried A2 Enterprises application for bank and CVS at 697 Paramus Road to future meeting
Mayor & Council
The Paramus Mayor and Council is holding its 2021 reorganization meeting, where newly elected council members will be sworn in, a council president will be elected, and the mayor will make appointments to various boards and committees. The council will also introduce Ordinance 2021-01, which amends the zoning chapter, and adopt a consent agenda of routine resolutions covering financial, administrative, and emergency management matters.
- Oath of office for Council Members MariaElena Bellinger and Christopher DiPiazza
- Introduction of Ordinance 2021-01 to amend Chapter 429 (Zoning)
- Appointments to boards including Board of Adjustment, Planning Board, and Library Board
- Resolution 21-01-22: Temporary budget appropriations
- Resolution 21-01-29: 2021 clothing allowance for fire and rescue volunteers