The Tenafly Council Meeting on December 17, 2024, highlighted a significant push towards environmental sustainability with the introduction of a proposed "Skip the Stuff" ordinance. Councilwoman O'Connor reported that the Environmental Commission is advocating for this initiative, which aims to reduce plastic waste by allowing customers to request plastic utensils only when needed for takeout orders. This ordinance has already seen success in other New Jersey municipalities, including Hoboken and Jersey City, and is expected to benefit local businesses by lowering costs associated with unnecessary plastic utensils.

O'Connor emphasized the importance of this ordinance in combating plastic pollution, stating, "It's a win-win for the businesses themselves because it's gonna lower their bottom line." The council expressed interest in discussing the ordinance further at the next meeting, with plans to draft a sample for consideration.

In addition to environmental efforts, the council also discussed community engagement, particularly following the success of the recent Winter Wonderland event. Council members expressed gratitude to residents and local businesses for their participation, noting the event's popularity and the potential for future gatherings.

The meeting also touched on upcoming developments, including plans for veterans' housing on Serpentine Road, which are set to be presented to the planning board in February. The council is considering an ordinance to allow overnight street parking for residents of these new apartments, aiming to maximize the housing project's effectiveness.

Overall, the meeting underscored Tenafly's commitment to sustainability and community involvement, with several initiatives poised to enhance both environmental health and local engagement in the coming months.