Madison celebrates EV City of the Year award and bids farewell to Bea Henderson

The Madison Borough Council meeting on March 24, 2025, highlighted several significant community updates and tributes. The meeting began with a moment of remembrance for Marion Hoffman, a longtime board member of ATD Fourth World New York and a dedicated volunteer for refugee resettlement in New Jersey. Hoffman, who passed away recently, was recognized for his commitment to civic duty and his respect for election law, notably demonstrating his voting principles during his last council appearance.

In a notable achievement, Madison was awarded the Electric Vehicle Association's EV City of the Year for 2024, acknowledging the borough's efforts in promoting electric vehicle use and sustainability. The mayor expressed gratitude to the community for their contributions to this recognition.

The council also discussed a recent visit from the Central Avenue Cub Scout troop, who engaged in a mock council meeting proposing a law requiring all homes in Madison to have a pool. The proposal sparked a lively debate about the benefits and costs associated with pool ownership, ultimately resulting in a tied vote that required the mayor to cast a deciding no vote.

Additionally, the council celebrated local businesses with ribbon-cutting ceremonies, including the opening of the Solwood Studio Performing Arts at the Madison Presbyterian Church and a farewell event for Bea Henderson, the retiring owner of San Francisco Mercantile after 46 years in business. The mayor reflected on the community's fond memories associated with Henderson's store, emphasizing its impact on local culture.

Lastly, the council addressed potential cost increases for the Heller Center project, which aims to restore the historic building and improve accessibility. The meeting underscored the borough's ongoing commitment to community engagement, local business support, and infrastructure development.