Council advances memorial bench and tree dedication program, considers ordinance codification

Council members presented details of a proposed memorial bench and tree dedication program that would allow residents and families to create on-site dedications. The proposal was discussed as a program to be codified, and council members asked codification staff to advise where in borough ordinances the policy should be placed.

Council members described the program components: 6-foot benches selected for engraving rather than removable plaques to reduce vandalism and upkeep, benches priced at about $2,000 and to be maintained by the borough for a limited period; trees priced at about $700 with specific early-year replacement stipulations (the borough will replace a tree that dies within the first year; replacement responsibility and cost-sharing rules change thereafter). Plaques at the base of trees would be offered and could remain with the donor if a tree is removed; placement of benches and trees would be at council discretion and may be located on borough property or in front of a donor's home where allowed.

Councilwoman Grant said the policy language should specify eligibility, and members discussed limiting dedications to residents and New Milford community groups (to avoid commercial or out-of-town dedications). The council praised staff work on designs and costs and agreed to draft ordinance language for the program and bring it back for consideration at the December meeting.

Why it matters: the program creates a formal path for memorials on borough property while defining cost, maintenance, and eligibility rules. Council members discussed program safeguards—engraved benches to deter theft of plaques, replacement rules for damaged items, and limits to avoid commercialization.

Next steps: staff will coordinate with codification services and present draft ordinance language to the council at an upcoming meeting.