Oakland, New Jersey Development News
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Borough Council Meeting - July 14, 2026
Published: Jul 14, 2026
Oakland Leverages CDBG Grants for Infrastructure, Secures Additional Funding
The Council discussed the successful utilization of Community Development Block Grants (CDBG) for infrastructure projects, particularly in the Pleasure Land neighborhood. These grants have funded the replacement of water systems and are currently being used for storm sewer system replacements. The borough has been effective in executing these projects promptly and has secured additional funding from "unprogrammed funds" due to the county's need to spend down money. The borough administrator indicated ongoing opportunities for additional CDBG funding, with a call scheduled with the director next week.
Residents Criticize Lack of Transparency in Oakland's New Waste Contract; Second Public Comment Period Denied
The council meeting featured a lengthy discussion and public comment period regarding the new solid waste disposal contract with Pompton Lakes. Residents expressed significant frustration over a perceived lack of transparency throughout the contract negotiation process, highlighting that the new 32-gallon can size was not adequately communicated until after the contract was signed. Several speakers criticized the council for not being upfront about the changes and for not seeking further public input or alternative solutions. The council acknowledged communication gaps and apologized for the disconnect, but also defended the cost savings and the need for worker safety as drivers for the change. A debate also arose regarding the reinstatement of a second public comment period, with a motion failing to pass.
Lakeshore Drive Storm Sewer Pipe Replacement Approved; DEP Permits and Future Projects Discussed
The Council approved a proposal from Boswell Engineering for $30,000 to address a collapsed 24-inch storm sewer pipe on Lakeshore Drive. The pipe, approximately 140 feet long and draining into Crystal Lake, has developed sinkholes and requires replacement. The cost includes significant fees for necessary DEP permits. The project aims to start in August to facilitate repair work. Additionally, the council discussed ongoing storm sewer system replacements in the Pleasure Land neighborhood using CDBG grants and future plans for repairing outfalls, which are structures where pipes terminate into bodies of water and also require DEP permits.
Oakland Council Considers, But Ultimately Halts, Independent Police Department Assessment
Mayor Talami announced that the council is considering commissioning an independent, third-party assessment of the Oakland Police Department. This assessment would focus on policies, procedures, staffing models, training, supervision, and accountability processes, including school crossing guard coverage. The stated goal is to ensure the department meets the highest standards of safety, compliance, and accountability, and to provide a solid starting point for the new police chief. The timing is deliberate, aiming to proactively review operations rather than react to a crisis. Resolution 26-433 for this study was on the agenda, but it was not introduced by the council and therefore died. Despite some council members and residents expressing disappointment, the consensus was that it was not the right time for such a study due to current staffing issues and the department's existing certification process.
Independent Police Department Assessment Study Resolution Fails to Be Introduced by Oakland Council
Council President Talamini announced that the borough is considering commissioning an independent, third-party assessment of the Oakland Police Department. The resolution (26-433) for this study was on the agenda. However, after a lengthy discussion and consideration, the council decided not to introduce the resolution, effectively halting the proposed study. This decision was met with disappointment by some council members and residents who felt it was a missed opportunity for good governance and improvement, especially given the recent change in police leadership. The rationale for not proceeding included concerns about current staffing levels and the cost of such a study, with some suggesting the department could address issues internally with proper staffing.
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The Oakland News archive
Borough Council Meeting - June 23, 2026
Oakland, NJ Town Carnival - Day 4 - June 20, 2026
Oakland, NJ Town Carnival - June 17, 2026
Flag Day Ceremony - June 14, 2026
Borough Council Meeting - June 9, 2026
Borough Council Meeting - May 26, 2026
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