Council makes two police appointments permanent, debates sergeant‑promotion rule and advances SRO plan with high school

The borough approved a motion to make two probationary officers permanent in the Old Tappan Police Department. Chief Weaver recommended that Patrol Officer Drilon Fazliu and Patrol Officer Tyler Martinez be appointed as permanent members after they completed more than 12 months of service and required training. Council approved the appointments by voice/roll call and agreed to prepare a memorializing resolution for the next meeting.

Council then considered whether to waive an ordinance requirement that a candidate have three years of patrol service (excluding probationary time) to be eligible to participate in the sergeant promotional process. Two officers sought a waiver so they could compete earlier. The police chief recommended against a waiver and council members noted that there are four fully eligible internal applicants; the council did not adopt a blanket waiver and said it preferred to adhere to the ordinance and the promotional schedule.

Separately, council discussed a proposed three‑year contract with the local high school to supply a school resource officer (SRO). The school board has approved covering 10 months of salary in year one; the borough would pay the remainder and will negotiate contract terms including scheduling and summer coverage. Council members discussed operational details — an SRO working eight‑hour school‑day shifts with summer coverage back at patrol — and the chief said she had identified a likely candidate. The council authorized the committee to proceed with hiring steps and said the agreement will be returned for formal approval.