Full Notification

Leonia’s Budget Challenge:
 
We are focusing on next year’s budget earlier than usual—out of necessity. Our small borough is being hit with substantial cost increases that we do not control. These include:
 

• Estimated pension increases mandated by the State of New Jersey at 7%.
• A 36% increase in health and insurance benefits, one of our largest line items, set by NJ
• Tipping and sewage processing fees up 10% or so set by the Bergen County Utilities Authority
• Electric utility costs, which have risen 115% over the past five years, 40% this year alone!

 
These bills are relentless, and at times it’s remarkable that our little boat can stay afloat.
What may provide some reassurance is this: the expenses we do control are holding steady—coming in within 1% (up or down) of inflation. We are also pulling out every stop to offset these uncontrollable increases without substantially decreasing services (more on that later in this update).
 
Normally, the budget process begins in November or December for the following year. This time, we began working on the 2026 budget back in August to get a head start on finding savings. Here’s a LINK to the September 3, 2025 budget presentation at the Mayor and Council meeting.  
 
We are managing headcount through natural attrition and pursuing new, creative ways to deliver services cost-effectively. I want to commend the Finance Committee—especially Chair Christoph Hesterbrink—and our Borough Administrator Marisa Mesropian for their diligent work on behalf of residents.
 
Without these proactive measures, Leonia taxpayers faced a 12–15% increase in the municipal portion of property taxes. Thanks to the work underway—and despite the State of NJ eliminating roughly $100,000 in savings we were counting on by changing health insurance rules at the last minute—we are now on track for a more manageable 3%-6% increase, if all goes well. While no one welcomes an increase, this is a far cry from the double-digit spike we initially feared.
 
To stay informed, I encourage you to participate in our next Budget Town Hall in the first quarter of 2026 (date to be announced soon).  We will present exactly where we are and get your input.  The session will take place on the second floor of the new Municipal Center at 229 Fort Lee Road, next to the Library.
 
Bulk Trash pilot program:

We’re exploring a bulk trash pilot to increase efficiency and reduce costs. Under normal circumstances, I would hesitate to reduce any service—especially given what we all pay in taxes. But these are not normal budget circumstances, and we need to test smart ways to save without materially impacting residents.
This pilot comes with strong endorsements from:

• DPW Committee, led by Councilmember Diane Scarangella
• DPW Superintendent John Villareal

Both believe this is worth testing—and I agree.
What’s changing (pilot):

• Pickup frequency: from twice a month to once a month
• Duration: 6 months, starting January, 2026

Why we’re testing this:

• Personnel savings: One monthly pickup allows us to redeploy crews to other high-priority DPW tasks.
• Tipping fee reduction: We’ll measure tonnage to see if consolidating pickups reduces disposal costs.
• Curbside integrity: A monthly schedule may help deter abuse, such as improper contractor dumping.

Communication & calendars:

• We’ll publish specific pickup dates as soon as they’re set and include them in a forthcoming status update.
• Your printed community calendar will still show the old twice-monthly cadence.  Only one of the two monthly dates will remain valid.
• Help us reduce confusion and keep the borough tidy by sharing the update with neighbors.

How success will be measured:

• On-time completion of routes
• Crew hours saved and redeployed
• Changes in monthly tonnage/tipping fees
• Resident feedback (convenience, cleanliness, compliance)

If the pilot works—saving money without materially reducing service—we’ll consider making it permanent, with the data to back it up.
Promise Church Update:
 
In my previous status report, I provided you with the background on the pending application by the Promise Church on Grand Avenue.  Essentially, the Church is looking for 3 variances to go along with their proposed expansion plans.  You can re-read all the background information HERE.
 
I just learned the ONLY way for you as a member of the public to get your comments/opinions on the record is to appear in person at a Planning Board meeting and offer comments during the public portion.  You cannot write an email or letter to indicate the same.  If you do, that letter, email or other form of communication will NOT become a part of the public record and can’t be considered by the Planning Board when they make any decisions. 
 
Why is this you ask?  Well, that’s a good question.  Basically, this semi-judicial proceeding which is dictated by state law must provide the applicant or, in this case, the applicant’s attorney with the opportunity to cross examine anyone (including members of the public) who offer comments or pose questions about expert testimony which has been offered.  Those are simply the rules. 
 
It should not discourage anyone in any way from getting their comments on the public record so that your opinion(s) can be heard and weighed appropriately by the Planning Board. 
 
At Promise Church’s request the September meeting did not include further hearings on their application.  I am expecting their application to be continued at the October meeting scheduled for Wednesday, October 22nd at 7:30 pm in the new Municipal Center Building adjacent to the library on the second floor.  At this October 22nd meeting, it is expected the applicant themselves will testify before the Board. 
 
I encourage anyone who has a point of view on this application and wants it to make a difference to attend the meeting, hear what is being said and make a public comment expressing yourself. 
 
Rear Angle Parking (RAP) Report Card:
 
A Mayor might fear raising Rear Angle Parking (RAP) again as “picking at a scab” or “kicking a hornet’s nest.” But I promised transparency—good or bad—when we introduced RAP, and I now have more data to share with you.
 
I recognize that some neighbors simply don’t like RAP. I get it. Change is not always easy. But the data doesn’t lie: RAP is demonstrably safer than traditional front-in parking. I won’t repeat all the reasons why—it’s outlined HERE if you’d like a refresher. Instead, let me highlight the newest results from the Leonia Police Department.
 
From January 1 through September 30, 2025, Broad Avenue has seen an 81.5% decline in accidents involving cars pulling out of parking spaces compared with the old front-in approach. This is extraordinary. Personally, when RAP was first introduced, I was hoping for a 50% improvement which I thought would be pretty remarkable by itself.
 
To put it into perspective: before RAP, Broad Avenue averaged 1.2 accidents per month from cars backing into traffic. In 2025 so far—now that most drivers are accustomed to the change—there have been just two accidents total across nine months. That’s the 81.5% decline.
 
And that figure doesn’t even capture the additional safety benefits:
 
–Bicyclists are less at risk, since drivers now face the bike lane before pulling out.
–Children are safer, since passenger doors open toward the sidewalk instead of the street.
–Everyday convenience has improved too—your trunk is closer to the sidewalk when loading groceries or strollers.
 
E-bikes and scooters add another layer. They move faster than traditional bicycles, making them harder to spot when backing into traffic. RAP helps by ensuring drivers are already facing oncoming lanes before pulling out.
 
For those interested in double-checking the numbers, here’s the breakdown: HERE.
 
I do not discount the frustration some have felt in adjusting to a new system. That frustration is real, and I’ve heard it.  (I think we all have.)  But when an approach proves far safer and saves Leonia $1 million in taxpayer dollars as part of the overall project, I believe it is clearly the right choice for the majority of residents. Faced with the same decision again, I would make it every single time.
 
Redevelopment:
 
With your input—and following three Town Halls dedicated to collecting feedback—Leonia’s redevelopment plan created by your friends and neighbors is now moving toward formalized approval. This week, as required by law, certified mail notices are being sent to all residents and property owners located within the designated redevelopment zones, as well as to those who live or own property within 200 feet of these areas.
 
The Planning Board will conduct its final review and approval of the plan, after which the governing body will formalize the plan by ordinance. [HERE is the redevelopment plan] reflecting adjustments made in response to the feedback, reviews, and recommendations we’ve received throughout the process.
 
Redevelopment is the most important initiative we can undertake for Leonia’s long-term success. It affects not only how our town looks and feels, but also the quality of life and financial stability of our community. If you have not yet done so, I encourage you to review [this link HERE from a prior update], which explains why redevelopment is so critical and what is represented in our plan.
 
Sidewalk Maintenance:
 
I’m very proud of our little town and Leonians. There is a major effort underway across town to dramatically improve sidewalk safety.  Leonians are cooperating to fix problems, many hiring contractors and partnering with their neighbors to keep prices down by locking in some bulk savings.  
 
The objective here is simple: safe and passable sidewalks.  For example, if you can’t run a baby stroller over a sidewalk without getting stuck or the wheels snagged, it’s reasonable to say your sidewalk is not in compliance.  This simple reasonableness standard is what you should maybe keep in mind when evaluating your own sidewalk. 
 
At the same time, I admit our rolling out our sidewalk safety initiative hasn’t been perfect.  There were some growing pains.  Mistakes have been made.  Specifically, we should have done a better job in explaining various violations and describing the same.  That’s on us.  And we have largely fixed those shortcomings in our approach now based on experience. 
 
I encourage you to complete your sidewalk work within the deadline indicated on any violation notice you may have received or apply through the Building Department by using this FORM for an extension based on any exceptional individual circumstances.  You will find the Building Department, which issued these violations, very reasonable in their consideration of possible extensions. Once you’ve filled out the form, you may send it to [email protected] and [email protected].
 
The Building Department and our Borough Administrator, Marisa Mesropian, have put together a comprehensive set of suggestions on sidewalk repair that you can view HERE, and are supplementing this information with additional descriptive materials.  Sidewalk repair does not always involve having to completely replace a slab or slabs.  There are other ways, as highlighted in this guidebook, to potentially satisfy a violation without replacement.  
 
When/if you need to replace a sidewalk slab and it is adjacent to a borough owned tree (which may have caused the necessary repair in the first place), it might be a really good idea to consider putting a sidewalk cutout adjacent to the tree.  This sidewalk cutout PICTURED HERE would minimize the likelihood of the tree pushing up on the sidewalk as it continues to grow and will give the tree more space to flourish.  If you have any questions about this or any other sidewalk matters, please email the Building Department at [email protected] or call them during business hours at 201-592-5780 x253. 
 
We have created a webpage on the borough website devoted to Sidewalk Maintenance which includes, among other things, answers to frequently asked questions and a sidewalk repair guide.  Sidewalks are but one of a number of items dictated by the borough ordinances - check out the Easy Ordinance Guide on the borough website.
 
Fall Planting Season:
 
Don’t forget to take advantage of, if you want, a free shade tree planted at Borough expense on your private property.   This is a critically important program to help us maintain and replenish our tree canopy.  The Shade Tree Commission’s private planting program information is HERE, (funded through the tree replacement fees collected when healthy trees are legally removed).  Included on this link is information about how to request a tree as well as the types of trees available.  Your participation helps ensure the green oasis which is Leonia today will also exist for future generations.  Your children are worth it and your property values will reflect the quiet tree lined streets just a stone’s throw from NYC.
 
A Collectibles store is coming to town:
 
On Broad Avenue, the commercial space once occupied by Gallery Episodes is also set for a new chapter. Gallery Episodes, which featured an artist co-op, was a creative and successful venture, but it had to close when the owner left to care for his ailing mother. The space will soon become a store specializing in collectibles, with a particular focus on sports and theme cards such as Pokémon, sports cards and others.
 
As a general rule, I encourage everyone to continue supporting our local merchants. Their success is our success. A vibrant business district not only provides useful products and services, but also strengthens our sense of community and helps bolster property values.
 
And for those who would like to see more restaurants in town, the best way to encourage that growth is to patronize the ones we already have.  Prospective restaurant owners pay close attention to whether the local community supports existing establishments when deciding whether to invest in Leonia.
 
Stuffing Party:
 
To save about $2,000, Leonia volunteers stepped forward today for an old-fashioned envelope stuffing party. The level of volunteer spirit in town over the past couple of years has been nothing short of remarkable.
 
Within minutes of sending out a Nixle request, a dozen volunteers had already signed up—and more responses kept coming until we actually had to cut off participation. Drinks (non-alcoholic) and cookies were served, and everyone had a reasonably good time rolling up their sleeves and getting to work.
 
For peace of mind, please know that no private information was ever visible to our volunteers. Everything they put into the tax mailer is already public information.
 
The bottom line: Leonia volunteerism is up—way up. Join in, be part of the “fun” crowd, and know that you’re contributing to something that makes our community stronger. There truly is something for everyone.  There are many committees, commissions, and other opportunities where your volunteer help would make a difference. From time to time, as with this stuffing party, we’ll also reach out for special projects.
 
If you’d like to get involved, please sign up on the borough website HERE
 
Speaking of volunteers…
 
I need a few people who have a very specific skill set in fundraising and development.  I’m not talking about development in terms of zoning or buildings, I’m looking for people who have success at raising money.  Think about your college’s alumni donation programs.  I believe the professionals who work in the development offices at colleges and universities are a good reflection of the skills I’m seeking now to help Leonia on a volunteer basis.
 
Why am I doing this?  There are naming and development/fundraising opportunities in Leonia which will assist all of our Departments and Commissions with their fundraising efforts.  I believe there is a lot of untapped potential.   I’m hoping some people with these skills will step forward and contact me directly at [email protected].  I would be happy to discuss what I have in mind and take it from there. 
 
If we are successful with these enhanced private fundraising efforts, it will lessen the financial pressure on all of us as taxpayers.
 
NJ Election Mail In Ballot Drop Box is now in Leonia:
 
Thanks largely to the efforts of our Council President Jordan Zeigler and Marisa Mesropian, Borough Administrator, Leonia now has its own NJ Election Mail In Ballot Drop Box.  Located adjacent to the War Memorial at the back of the library, it is now open to receive mail in ballot drop boxes. 
 
The placement of the ballot drop box next to our War Memorial is fitting. Our veterans fought long and hard to preserve our democracy—including 42 Leonia men who made the ultimate sacrifice with their lives—so that future generations could enjoy the same Constitutional rights including free and fair elections.
 
In choosing this location, we also ensured full compliance with all security requirements, including 24/7 video surveillance. Personally, I always vote by mail because of the convenience, and I look forward to using this new drop box for the first time in the upcoming election.
 
You can see a photo of this new box HERE along with Jonathan Mandel, Borough Clerk, who also played a role in securing it for us.
 
Dinosaurs in Leonia:
 
As many of you are already aware, the Dinosaur Park that operated in Overpeck adjacent to our DPW facility has closed permanently.  Recent news articles, including in the NY Times and The Record, have mentioned how the dinosaurs are up for sale. 
 
A handful of residents approached me about the possibility of obtaining a dinosaur for display somewhere in Leonia. 
 
After speaking with the Executive Director of the Dinosaur park, I was told they are very close to finalizing a sale with an institutional buyer who will be taking all the dinosaurs as part of the deal.
 
As Mayor, I asked if he might consider donating one of the dinosaurs to us in Leonia.  He committed to seriously considering my request and spoke highly of his experience in Leonia and how we have always been a ‘good neighbor’. 
 
As long as the maintenance costs associated with caring for the dinosaur aren’t too onerous, (I don’t know how much food it consumes daily), I think we should find a place for the creature, perhaps somewhere in Station Parkway.  I know the kids would love it.   Keep your fingers crossed.
 
E-Bikes and Riding on sidewalks:
 
When I was a kid, riding my bicycle around Leonia with friends gave us a real sense of freedom.
 
Times have changed, and today some children are now riding e-bikes. These can reach much higher speeds, and when used on sidewalks—especially in the business district with heavy foot traffic—they create real safety risks.
 
Accidents have already happened, and the consequences can be serious. The Leonia Police Department is keeping watch, but the first and best line of defense is parents reminding their children: no riding e-bikes on sidewalks in the business district ever, and always wear a helmet.
 
This is a personal plea. I’ve seen kids riding without helmets, and the danger is real. We do not want to see life-changing injuries in our community. Our children are still learning to make good decisions, and it’s up to us as parents and neighbors to help keep them safe.
 
Volunteer Spotlight: Sebastian Marks:
 
As I’ve said before, volunteerism is alive and well in Leonia. A wonderful example this summer was the work of Sebastian Marks, who interned in my office before starting his freshman year of high school.
 
For his project, Sebastian set out to inventory every sidewalk cutout in town that did not already have a tree planted. On some of the hottest days of the summer, he walked every block of Leonia—clipboard in hand—carefully noting each location, address, and whether overhead wires were present.
 
At my request, he then prepared and delivered a formal presentation to the entire Shade Tree Commission, which you can view HERE.  His work will immediately be put to use, beginning with the fall plantings scheduled for the end of this month.
 
The Commission was thrilled to have this information, the Borough now has a valuable tool for planting new trees, and Sebastian gained real-world experience not only in data collection but also in presenting his findings to adults in a professional setting.
 
Needless to say, I will be more than happy to provide Sebastian with a strong recommendation in the future. His work ethic, diligence, and results speak for themselves. This was truly a win all around—for Sebastian, for the Shade Tree Commission, and for the entire town.
 
Smelling the Roses:
 
On my way home the other day, there was a magnificent sunset in Leonia pictured HERE.  It reminded me of the need to pause every once in a while and appreciate the many gifts of nature and life in general. We tend to rush from place to place and bounce from task to task without “smelling the roses’.
 
As I took this photo (without any filters or enhancements) I couldn’t help but marvel at the beauty of nature and think about how the majority of Leonians are doing what we can to protect our natural environment for the benefit of future generations. 
 
That’s all for this month…
 
Kind regards,
 

Bill Ziegler
Mayor
312 Broad Avenue