DEP flags riverfront parcels; Pompton Lakes seeks $500,000 for DPW garage replacement

Borough administration told council a recent DEP site investigation identified issues on several parcels behind businesses on Wanakyu Avenue, including placement of fill in the riparian zone and clearing of trees. Staff said the DEP will likely issue notices of violation and require a restoration plan; the borough engineer is preparing a report and will work with property owners and the DEP on remediation.

At the same meeting, the borough administrator reported submitting a $500,000 direct-line-item request to Senator Fanaccio for the state budget to help fund replacement of the Department of Public Works garage. Administration said the request was prepared on short notice to meet the senator’s appropriation deadline and that the grant would partially fund the DPW facility replacement if awarded.

Council members expressed disappointment that residents raised concerns about the riverfront parcels a year earlier and said they want a clearer account of why action did not occur sooner. Administration said prior site investigations occurred but private landowners did not respond to notices; DEP’s further inquiry prompted the most recent enforcement activity.

Staff promised to circulate the DEP site investigation report to the governing body and to keep council informed about any formal notices and restoration requirements.