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As for the 2024 goals of the Forestry Department, Director Gordon explained the allocation of <br />$160,000 for contractual services. This budget includes the ambitious targets of planting 350-400 <br />new trees, conducting an estimated 50-75 stump removals, and addressing the removal of <br />hazardous trees to enhance public safety. <br />Director Gordon then explained 2024 goals regarding fleet maintenance, which entail the <br />continued replacement of police cruisers with eco-friendly and efficient hybrid models. The <br />department also aims to optimize the fleet by disposing of underutilized vehicles and replacing <br />single-use equipment with multi-use alternatives. Director Gordon highlighted that the <br />overarching objective for the year is to sustain and enhance the efficiency of fleet maintenance <br />practices. <br />Director Gordon provided insights into the 2024 Parks and Public Properties initiatives, <br />explaining the collaborative effort with the Lakewood Board of Recreation to enhance the safety <br />and appeal of all athletic fields and courts. Emphasizing a commitment to cost-effective <br />improvements, Director Gordon noted that the Public Works Department oversees maintenance <br />for 17 parks, with specific attention to upcoming improvements at Edwards Field. <br />Regarding the New Refuse and Recycling Facility, Director Gordon highlighted the progress, <br />noting that Phase 1 is nearly completed. The development includes a new recycling center and a <br />renovated truck parking facility. The 2024 goals for Refuse and Recycling entail a multifaceted <br />approach: reducing the recycling contamination rate, increasing education on recyclables, <br />streamlining workloads, and implementing rules and regulations for the new drop-off facility. <br />During the discussion, Councilman Shachner asked about commonly mistaken recyclable items. <br />Director Gordon responded by explaining that products, such as styrofoam, are often mistakenly <br />included in recycling. <br />Director Gordon went on to explain the initiatives within the Water Waste Department, starting <br />with an overview of the 2023 Watermain Replacement Project. He then provided insights into <br />the upcoming projects, highlighting the 2024 and 2025 Watermain Replacement Projects. <br />In terms of the 2024 goals for Wastewater Management and the Wastewater Treatment Plant <br />(WWTP), Director Gordon outlined plans for the addition of two sewer employees. He <br />emphasized the department's continued work on the backflow prevention program. Furthermore, <br />Director Gordon discussed the ongoing efforts to streamline work processes and work orders <br />through the utilization of Geographic Information System (GIS) technology. In terms of the <br />WWTP's 2024 goals, Director Gordon explained the focus on completing the commissioning of <br />High-Rate Treatment (HRT) and the advancement of technology and maintenance systems <br />within the WWTP. <br />Director Gordon provided an overview of the Lakewood Park Parking Lot Improvement project, <br />describing it as a complete makeover that includes the addition of 38 new parking spots, new <br />walkways for electric vehicle (EV) charging stations, new pavement, new lighting, new storm <br />sewer systems, new landscaping, and more. He then shared exciting news about Lakewood <br />Skatepark Phase 2, indicating that the project is currently underway. In addition, Director <br />5 <br /> <br /> <br />