Rockleigh council authorizes Polaris utility vehicle for trail recycling and emergency response; residents raise questions about use and insurance

The Borough of Rockleigh Mayor and Council voted on May 4, 2026 to authorize the QPA to purchase a Polaris utility vehicle via New Jersey State Contract at a price of $26,832.69. Council discussion established the vehicle’s primary uses would be recycling collection in the woods behind Borough Hall and, if needed, assisting injured hikers.

Council reviewed two vendor quotes: one priced higher because it included an $8,000 water‑pump accessory, while the lower quote omitted accessories and was roughly $26,000. The CFO, Kunjesh Trivedi, told the council the currently allocated funds available for the purchase were approximately $24,000; councilmembers agreed not to buy additional accessories now but left open adding accessories later.

During the public comment period resident Anthony Ferretti (36 Piermont Road) asked how the ATV would be funded, who would be authorized to operate it and whether the borough would insure it. Mayor James Pontone said the borough would obtain insurance and that authorized users would be listed (he indicated fire department personnel would be among authorized operators); he also described locks and control measures to govern use. The council agreed procurement would include requirements that vendors hold valid licenses and insurance.

Residents suggested alternate uses, including daily DPW pickup along Piermont Road, but council members cautioned that adding non-core duties could increase costs. The mayor and administrator noted that enforcement of trail littering has been difficult historically and that improved collection was part of the rationale for the purchase.

Next steps: the QPA/Public Works will proceed to procure the vehicle via state contract and obtain insurance; the CFO and administrator will report back on coverage and vendor documentation.