Pompton Lakes council adopts police reorganization ordinance after residents question 'brass' levels

Pompton Lakes Borough Council voted to adopt Ordinance 24-24, amending chapter 2 of the borough code to revise the police department’s organizational structure.

Administration said the chief requested the reorganization to reflect changing population and operational needs; the ordinance is structural and does not authorize hiring additional patrol officers. During public comment, a resident (Randy of 443 Montclair Avenue) asked, “How many chiefs do we need?” and expressed concern about adding command-level positions and perceived excess “brass.” Administration replied the change is a reorganization and clarification of roles; the council moved forward with final adoption.

Council approved the ordinance by roll call. Staff said this ordinance simply updates municipal code to match the department’s requested structure; any future staffing changes would require additional council action and budget consideration.