Development News for River Edge, New Jersey

River Edge Council Approves Salary Increases, Personnel Changes, and Expenditures

The council approved several salary increases and personnel changes. Edward Hazuka, a Laborer in the Department of Public Works, received a probationary salary increase to $47,760 from $459,433, effective July 27th, 2026. Eric Phillips, a Foreman in the Department of Public Works, was approved for a salary increase from $13,2580 to $1113,44356, effective June 1st, 2026. The council also approved a revised list of camp staff on file with the Borough's Clerk Office. Additionally, a motion was made and seconded to approve multiple resolutions (26-156, 26-157, and 26-159 through 26-170) for expenditures totaling $130,853.13 for the General Capital Fund, $3,137.12 for Trust Other, and $17,188.5 for Recreation Trust. Resolution 26-170 specifically covered these expenditures.

River Edge Considers Public Safety Measures Following ICE Activity, Police Chief Addresses Community Concerns

Residents and council members discussed the recent ICE activity near Roosevelt School and proposed measures to enhance public safety and community trust. Three proposals were presented: a standardized public safety notice protocol to inform residents about ICE activity, a prohibition on using borough property, personnel, or resources for ICE activities unless legally required, and a commitment to community engagement. The proposals aim to address concerns arising from a specific ICE arrest incident, ensure clear communication, and align River Edge with other municipalities adopting similar restrictions. Police Chief Walker provided an overview of existing department policies and state guidelines regarding interactions with immigrant communities, emphasizing that while officers respond to ICE presence to ensure safety and de-escalate situations, they do not actively cooperate with or provide resources for ICE operations. He assured residents that River Edge is a safe community and that ICE activity is not routine or widespread.

River Edge Introduces Ordinance to Extend Alcohol Service Hours During FIFA World Cup 2026

The council introduced an ordinance to amend the hours for the sale and service of alcoholic beverages for consumption-based licenses (bars and restaurants) during the FIFA World Cup 2026. The proposed ordinance, based on a model provided by the Division of Alcoholic Beverage Control, would extend operating hours until 4 a.m. from June 11th to July 19th, aligning with the governor's proclamation. Currently, establishments close at 3 a.m. on Sundays and 2 a.m. on other days, with a 4 a.m. exception only for New Year's Eve. The ordinance was introduced and moved for a second reading at the next council meeting, with a public comment period scheduled at that time. Councilman Glass abstained from the initial vote due to insufficient time to review the ordinance.

River Edge Environmental Commission Reports on Successful Initiatives and Outlines Future Green Goals

The River Edge Environmental Protection Commission and Green Team presented their 2025 annual report, highlighting various initiatives undertaken throughout the year. Key activities included Hackensack River cleanups in May and October, work on the "Skip the Stuff" law promotion for its August 1st rollout, and participation in Bergen Hub meetings for information sharing. They also explored pickleball and tennis ball recycling, conducted three Expanded Polystyrene (styrofoam) collections, and successfully hosted sports equipment swaps with the Recreation Department, which also included Halloween costumes. A "Second Chance" toy drive collected approximately 500 toys. The commission initiated banana and orange peel composting collection at the River Edge Run, hosted a Composting 101 class, and ran a prom box collection program with local florists for reusable materials. Future goals include establishing a community garden, potentially via a shared service agreement with Ridgewood for styrofoam collection, and implementing municipal composting, which could significantly reduce waste and help meet future state solid waste reduction goals.