Development News for Tenafly, New Jersey

Tennifly Council Debates Electronic Billboard for Route 9W and East Clinton Signage

The council discussed the current signage situation at Route 9W and East Clinton, which is cluttered with numerous signs. A proposal was made to consider installing an electronic billboard at this location to consolidate advertising and improve the aesthetic. This would involve a sign fee, with advertisements displayed on the billboard instead of individual signs. The discussion involved legal considerations regarding content neutrality and the First Amendment, with concerns raised about whether allowing community groups to advertise on an electronic billboard would necessitate allowing political signs. The potential impact on local charities and annual events that rely on current signage was also a significant point of discussion. The council debated the trade-offs between a cleaner appearance and the impact on community organizations. Ultimately, the decision was deferred, with the council requesting further investigation into the most appropriate high-quality electronic sign and legal review by the borough attorney. They also considered reducing the number of designated public forum locations.

Tennifly Celebrates Successful Night Market, Plans Summer Events, and Honors Community Efforts

The council received numerous updates on community events and initiatives. The Tennifly Night Market was highly successful, drawing an estimated 10,000 people and providing significant business to downtown restaurants. The police department and DPW were commended for their support. Planning is underway for a FIFA World Cup viewing event on July 18th and 19th, organized by the Chamber of Commerce, featuring a sports contest and a passport contest. Summer concerts, Fourth of July fireworks, and other events are planned. The council also acknowledged the efforts of various community groups, including the successful Nature Center gala, the 800 flowers planted by the chamber and downtown committee, the commitment of the Korean community, and the excellent work of the Senior Center committee. Updates were also given on the fire department seeking volunteers and the DPW potentially cross-training for firefighting. There was a discussion about the AP grant for a senior walking trail being declined, but progress is expected on trail work. The opening of the community pool was announced for Friday, June 23rd.

Tennifly Advances Park Improvements, Considers Expanding Meeting Room Access

The council received updates on several park and environmental initiatives. The pollinator garden at Grove Street, which had not performed well previously, will be improved with the installation of irrigation and maintenance by volunteers from Future Farmers of America. Approximately 60 trees will be planted in the coming weeks for houses that requested them through the free tree program, planted by Downs Tree Service. A proposal was made for a town proclamation to honor the 10-year anniversary of Tennifly Community Gardens. Additionally, a discussion occurred regarding the rental of the meeting room at Davis Johnson Park. Currently, it is only available to Tennifly residents, but the possibility of opening it up to non-residents with a Tennifly resident co-signer was discussed to increase rentals. Concerns about past damage to the room and the security of historical documents stored there were also raised, with a proposal to remove documents and potentially upgrade the HVAC system. The complexity of the room's application structure was also noted as a potential barrier.

Tennifly Declares June 2026 LGBTQ+ Pride Month, Announces Community Events

The Mayor and Council of the Borough of Tennifly officially proclaimed the month of June 2026 as LGBTQ+ Pride Month. This proclamation acknowledges the historical struggles and ongoing challenges faced by the LGBTQ+ community, reiterates the borough's commitment to civil rights, human rights, equality, inclusivity, resilience, respect, dignity, freedom, and visibility. It also emphasizes the importance of education, awareness, and advocacy to combat prejudice and discrimination. The proclamation was preceded by discussions about upcoming Pride Month events, including a flag-raising ceremony on June 1st and a Pride parade on June 6th. The Tennifly Pride committee is seeking donations to support these events, with information available through JP Padetto at the Tennifly Volunteer Ambulance or via their Instagram and Facebook pages. There was also clarification on the planned route for the flag-raising ceremony, starting at Oresco and marching to Hila.