Borough Happenings

Email Update

May 2, 2025

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Annual Clean Up Day - Walk Ups Welcome!

Saturday, May 3, 9:00 AM - 12:00 Noon


Please join the Mayors Wellness Campaign and the Environmental Commission for our Annual Clean Up Day on Saturday, May 3 from 9:00 AM to 12:00 Noon. Keeping our environment clean and beautiful is an important step to maintaining a healthy, safe and enjoyable community. By working together we can make an impact. Flyer.


Looks like the weather is going to hold out in the morning. Looking forward to seeing you this year. As a thank you for volunteering the Kona Ice Truck will be coming to both locations. Only registered volunteers will receive a ticket for a free cup! Walk ups are welcome.

 

Details available at www.franklinlakes.org/pride. E-mail questions to drobinson@franklinlakes.org or CWHolden@verizon.net

2025 Municipal Budget Public Hearing

Tuesday, May 6, 7:30 PM


The Mayor and Council introduced the 2025 Municipal Budget at its April 1, 2025 meeting. The public hearing and adoption of the budget is scheduled for the Mayor and Council meeting to be held on Tuesday, May 6, at 7:30 PM, in the Conference Room at Borough Hall. Click on the links below for documents relating to the budget:

2025 Budget Fact Sheet

2025 Municipal Budget - summary

2025 Municipal Budget - budget document

From Shade Tree Commission

Tree Planting for Arbor Day


Arbor Day, a day set aside for the planting of trees was celebrated on Friday, April 25. Mayor Charlie Kahwaty issued a Proclamation urging “all citizens to plant trees to gladden the heart and promote the well-being of this and future generations” and Columbia Bank donated a tree which was planted at Muni Field by the Shade Tree Commission. Pictured left to right, Shade Tree Commission Chairman Michael Tulp, Councilwoman Michele DeLuccia, Shade Tree Commissioners Donna Robinson and Marion Mahn, Councilman Joel Ansh, Mayor Charlie Kahwaty, Councilwoman Gail Kelly, Councilman Gary Sheppard and Shade Tree Commissioners Michael Kolenut, Matt Howell and John Christ.

From Franklin Lakes Parks & Recreation Foundation

Scholarship Opportunity

Deadline: Friday, May 2, 2025


The Franklin Lakes Parks and Recreation Foundation is pleased to award two (2) graduating seniors from the Class of 2025 a $1,500 scholarship each. Applicants must be a current resident of Franklin Lakes. *Please note applicants do not need to attend Ramapo or Indian Hills High School.


To apply, see details at www.franklinlakes.org. Applications are due by Friday, May 2, 2025 at 11:59 PM. Scholarship recipients will be notified by the end of May. Scholarships will be awarded at the Tuesday, June 17, 2025, Mayor and Council Meeting at 7:30 PM in the Council Chambers at Borough Hall.

From Police Department

Cars, Cops & Caffeine

Sunday, May 4, 8:00 AM to 11:00 AM



Franklin Lakes Police Department is hosting Cars, Cops & Caffeine to bring police officers and the community members they serve together-over coffee and cars- to discuss issues and learn more about each other. The event is informal and welcoming, there is no fee or registration, all coffee and refreshments will be provided at no cost. Franklin Lakes Police vehicles and other emergency vehicles will be on display. All cars are welcome, from the exotics to vintage and classics. Flyer. We hope to see you there! Location: Veterans Plaza at corner of Franklin Ave and Pulis Ave.

From Franklin Lakes Police

The Franklin Lakes Police Department 

and NHTSA Urge Families and Caregivers: 

Once You Park, Stop, Look, Lock.


Vehicular heatstroke is the leading cause of non-crash, vehicle-related death for children 14 and younger in the United States. The Franklin Lakes Police Department and the U.S. Department of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) urge parents and caregivers to learn about and share critical information about the dangers of leaving children alone in hot cars. Help NHTSA spread the word: Once You Park, Stop, Look, Lock. Visit our website for full article.

From Police Department

Ride Safe on the Roads:

Franklin Lakes Police Department and NHTSA Urge

Drivers to Be Bicyclist-Aware!


The Franklin Lakes Police Department and the U.S. Department of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) are urging everyone to be alert to keep bicyclists safe. Nationwide, 1,105 bicyclists were killed and an additional 46,195 were injured in 2022, with 16 killed in New Jersey.


As road users, bicyclists are an essential part of the transportation system, and their safety is a top priority. From children riding to school to older adults staying active and healthy, everyone deserves to be safe on our roads. Vehicle drivers play an essential role in ensuring bicyclists’ safety and should always be aware of bicyclists, always giving them enough room on the road, being careful not to pass too closely, and look left-right-left and behind when turning right on red. Visit our website for the full article.

From Environmental Commission

Community Garden Volunteers Wanted!

Saturday, May 17 at 9:30 AM


Join us for the Opening of the Franklin Lakes Organic Community Garden on Saturday, May 17 at 9:30 AM at McBride Field, Franklin Lake Road. Help us kick off the season by planting vegetables and herbs.


Students can earn community service hours! To RSVP, please email Lana Sherman or Linda Altomare. Event flyer.

From Library

Purchase a Raffle Ticket

Drawing is on May 17 at Franklin Lakes Day 


Franklin Lakes Free Public Library Foundation is having a Car and 50/50 Raffle, 4000 tickets will be sold and the price is $100 per ticket. To purchase a ticket mail a check made out to Franklin Lakes Library Foundation, 470 DeKorte Drive, Franklin Lakes, NJ 07417.

Please include number of tickets you would like to purchase, your name, phone, address and email address. Winners drawn May 17, 2025. Flyer.

From Borough Clerk

Voter Registration Deadline for Primary Election is May 20, 2025

Primary Election Day: Tuesday, June 10 – Polls Open 6 AM until 8 PM


Register to vote by May 20 in order to vote in the June 10 Primary Election. Voters may register or check their registration status at Vote.NJ.Gov. The Borough Clerk’s office will remain open until 8 PM on Tuesday, May 20 to accept paper applications (available at the Borough Clerk’s office and at Vote.NJ.Gov).


Voters are encouraged to take advantage of Vote-By-Mail or Early In Person Voting to avoid crowds on Election Day. For more information, visit the Borough website at www.franklinlakes.org/elections or contact the Borough Clerk’s office at 201-891-4000 x1200.

From Environmental Commission

FLOW Film Festival

June 5


Join the Franklin Lakes Environmental Commission at the Annual Flow Green Film Festival. The event is a joint venture of the Franklin Lakes, Oakland and Wyckoff Environmental Commissions and Green Teams in partnership with the Franklin Lakes, Wyckoff and Oakland Public Library and Senior Center. Flyer with full details.


  • Thursday, June 5 at 7:00 PM, Feeding Tomorrow, Oakland Senior Center, 20 Lawlor Drive

Franklin Lakes Summer Camp and Safety Town

June 30 thru August 1 - Recreation Camp

July 7 thru July 17 - Safety Town

 

 

All registrations can be completed online at www.wyckoffymca.org/rec.

From Community Director

Soles4Souls - Shoe Drive 4 The Planet 

May 1 – May 31, 2025 


Please join the Mayors Wellness Campaign and Baker Street, Health in Motion Podiatry for a shoe drive Soles4Souls, “Shoe Drive 4 The Planet” during the month of May we are collecting lightly worn shoes for Soles4souls. Please drop off new or lightly worn shoes to Franklin Lakes Borough Hall, 480 DeKorte Drive. 


If you donate one pair of lightly used you will receive one (1) free shoe exam, three (3) pairs you will receive a free foot exam from Baker Street! 


Click here for Souls4Soles and click here for Baker Street Podiatry

Farmers & Artisan Market - Coming Soon!

Saturdays, May 10 through October, 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM

 

The Franklin Lakes Mayors Wellness Campaign is excited to announce the launch of the Farmers & Artisan Market, starting this Spring at Veterans Plaza. This market will be a vibrant gathering place for community members to enjoy fresh produce, unique handcrafted goods, and much more - all while supporting local farmers and artisans.

Why You Should Attend:

  • Fresh Produce: Shop for locally grown fruits, vegetables, dairy, meats, and baked goods.
  • Unique Handcrafted Items: Find one-of-a-kind creations made by talented local artisans, including jewelry, pottery, candles, and textiles.
  • Support Local: By shopping at the market, you're supporting small businesses and sustainable practices within our community.
  • Family-Friendly Atmosphere: Join your neighbors for a fun and lively experience with music, food, and more.


Calling All Vendors: Are you a local farmer, artisan, or small business owner looking to showcase your products? We’d love to have you as part of the Franklin Lakes Farmers & Artisan Market! How to Register: To secure your spot, simply fill out the Farmers & Artisan Market vendor registration application.


Don't miss out on the chance to be part of Franklin Lakes' newest community tradition. Whether you're shopping or selling, the Farmers & Artisan Market promises to be a fun, exciting way to connect with the local community and enjoy all that Franklin Lakes has to offer.

Franklin Lakes Recreation Golf Outing

Monday, May 12, 10:00 AM

  

Please join us for an unforgettable day of golf and more at the 2nd Annual Recreation Golf Outing on Monday, May 12th, hosted by the Franklin Lakes Parks and Recreation Foundation, the Franklin Lakes Football Booster Club, and the Franklin Lakes Baseball Booster Club.


The event will take place at Arcola Country Club, located at Route 4 and Paramus Road, Paramus, NJ. For additional details on sponsorships, registration, or donations, please visit: Franklin Lakes Golf Outing 2025.

Franklin Lakes Day - Vendor Registration Open 

Saturday, May 17, 2:00 PM to 5:30 PM

  

The Borough of Franklin Lakes is hosting Franklin Lakes Day during the Lions Club Carnival on Saturday, May 17th from 2:00 PM to 5:30 PM. The Carnival will be open from Wednesday, May 14th through Sunday, May 18th. Rain date 5/18. Location: Parsons Pond Park Commuter Lot


Vendors wanted! If you would like to participate as a vendor please fill out the registration form. Event flyer


Details at www.franklinlakes.org/fld. For additional information, email Dina Robinson, Community Director, or call 201-847-8200.

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Memorial Day Ceremony

Monday, May 25, 9:30 AM - Rain or Shine


Join Mayor Kahwaty and Council for a Memorial Day Ceremony, Monday, May 25th at 9:30 AM, to commemorate our fallen heroes and in memory of all those who have served our country in a ritual of reflection, celebration and remembrance. Memorial wreaths will be presented by Borough organizations. The Ceremony will take place at Veterans Plaza, 745 Franklin Avenue (between Pulis Avenue and Bender Court). Live music by The 17 North Band and free breakfast from the Market Basket will be served. All are welcome, rain or shine. 

Mayor's Wellness Walk & National Trails Day

Saturday, June 14, 9:00 AM - 10:00 AM 

 

Please join the Franklin Lakes Mayors Wellness Campaign on Saturday, June 14 at 9:00 AM to walk with Mayor Charles Kahwaty! Mayor Kahwaty will lead us in the annual Wellness Walk in honor of National Trails Day.


Let’s explore the beautiful Old Mill Woodlands Trail. Bring family, friends, and your camera to capture the views and perhaps even do some birdwatching. It's a great way to start your day and meet your neighbors. Come out, enjoy the outdoors, and most importantly, have some fun! Meet behind Borough Hall at the Gazebo.

Hometown Heroes Banner Program

Deadline: Friday, August 1, 2025


The Borough of Franklin Lakes is proud to launch a Hometown Hero banner program. The banner program is open to all Franklin Lakes Veterans past and present! The banners will be hung for display for the month of November for 3 years from year of purchase; (2025, 2026, and 2027). Please see a sample banner. For more information on how to order please see attached Hometown Hero banner submission form. All submission forms, copy of Veteran’s DD-214 (if available) and artwork (high resolution PDF or JPEG at 600dpi) must be submitted by email to drobinson@franklinlakes.org by August 1st. 

Baskets 4 HOPE - 3 v 3 Basketball Tournament Registration Open

Saturday, June 7, 2025


The Franklin Lakes Mayors Wellness Campaign will host the annual Baskets 4 Hope, 3 v 3 Basketball Tournament on Saturday, June 7th on the outdoor basketball courts at Pulis Avenue Recreation Field. It’s time to register and put together your team of 4 players and come up with creative team names. Teams of four (4) are recommended, as you are guaranteed three games in the tournament. Every registered player will receive a reversible basketball jersey. Location: Franklin Lakes Outdoor Courts, 1 Vichiconti Way, Franklin Lakes, NJ.


This year’s tournament will raise money in memory of Larry Sellitti. Larry dedicated 37 years to the Franklin Lakes Department of Public Works, where he retired as Forman in July of 2024. Throughout the past few years, Larry battled many health issues including heart disease and kidney failure. Please help us raise funds to donate memorial benches to Franklin Lakes, Maywood, and Ringwood. The three towns Larry spent his life; working, raising his three sons, coaching, and growing up.  


Register at www.franklinlakes.org/baskets - $160 per team/$40 per person. Event flyerVolunteer flyer.  To volunteer or sponsor, email the Community Director at drobinson@franklinlakes.org

From Recycling Coordinator

Schedule a Curbside Collection for Bulk Waste, and Metal/Appliance Recycling


Details on curbside collections that need to be scheduled, visit Metal/Appliance and Bulk Waste. Residents must schedule a collection by completing a request form for bulk waste and metal and large appliance pick-up no later than10:00 AM the day before the scheduled date of collection.

Schedule a Collection

Metal/Large Appliance

Bulk Waste Collection

May


15

June

6

5, 19

Donate Bulk Waste Items


Before you place any bulk waste items out for curbside collection, consider donating any furniture or household items. A list of local organizations is available at www.franklinlakes.org/donations.

BCUA Collection Schedule

 

The Bergen County Utilities Authority (BCUA) will conduct Household Hazardous Waste and Tire Recycling, Mobile Paper Shredding, and Electronics/Computer collections. See below chart for dates.

Mayor and Council Special/Work Session Meeting

 

View the Mayor and Council Agenda for the 7:30 PM Special/Work Session Meeting in the Conference Room at Borough Hall on Tuesday, May 6, 2025.

Upcoming Meetings


  • Monday, May 5 at 7:00 PM, Board of Health Meeting, Conference Room
  • Tuesday, May 6 at 7:30 PM, Mayor and Council Work Session Meeting, Conference Room
  • Wednesday, May 7 at 9:30 AM, REACH Meeting, Ambulance Corps Building
  • Wednesday, May 7 at 7:30 PM, Planning Board Meeting, Council Chambers
  • Thursday, May 8 at 6:00 PM, Planning Board Special Meeting, Council Chambers

Upcoming Community Events


  • The Old Stone Music and Coffee House – Join us on Friday, May 2, 7:30 PM, at The Old Stone. Mountains Apart Group will be performing, giving us a great night including a mix of current Pop and Indie, Classic and Yacht Rock, and some Oldies with strong vocals, impressive musicianship and engaging personalities. It’s going to be a great night! As always, doors open at 7:30 PM. Music will be from 8:00 -10:00 PM. There will be a $10 cover charge which includes entry and unlimited coffee, tea, a cold drink and baked goodies. BYOBOW is allowed.
  • Franklin Lakes United Methodist Church Spring Rummage Sale - Friday, May 2, 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM, and Saturday May 3rd (9:00 AM - 2:00 PM). This is a great time to start your spring cleaning and consider donating your clean, gently used items to the sale. Donations can be dropped off Monday, April 28 thru Wednesday, April 30 (9:00 AM - 3:00 PM). We cannot accept large furniture, electronics, computers, books, or picture frames. Flyer.
  • Franklin Lakes Girl Scouts Fundraiser - Friday, May 9, Kara Kakes is donating 15% of all sales to the Franklin Lakes Girl Scouts. Mention "Girl Scouts" at checkout. Thank you for your support. Flyer.
  • Franklin Lakes Library - Find out what's happening at the Franklin Lakes Library, view our weekly newsletter. A full list of programs and services is available at franklinlakeslibrary.org.
  • Franklin Lakes Chamber of Commerce - Monthly Networking Meetings, 7:00 AM, second Friday of the month at the OEM Building.

Stay Connected with Ramapo Indian Hills Board of Education

Ramapo Indian Hills Highlights & Happenings - Monthly Newsletter

Help Keep Franklin Lakes Safe!

www.franklinlakes.org/policeactivityblotter

The Latest Buzz 


"The Latest Buzz" will give updated status reports on those issues that seem to generate the most buzz throughout town, that may be under-reported in other news outlets. We will keep this information fresh and up-to-date, with the "Last Updated" date noted at the end of each article.



For more information on the following topics visit: www.franklinlakes.org/buzz.

Event Calendar

Garbage & Recycling

Community Events

Contact Us

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Visit our website at www.franklinlakes.org.

Borough of Franklin Lakes

County of Bergen



480 DeKorte Drive, Franklin Lakes, NJ 07417

(201) 891-4000

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