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Madison Today
By the People, for the People
Madison Council Marks Women's History Month, Advances Affordable Housing Measures
Passionate debate on leaf blowers also heard at borough council meeting
Mar. 16, 2026 at 11:50am
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The Madison Borough Council held a meeting on Monday night where they issued a proclamation declaring March 2026 as Women's History Month, approved several affordable housing ordinances, and heard a heated debate from residents and landscapers regarding potential restrictions on gas-powered leaf blowers.
Why it matters
The council's actions on Women's History Month and affordable housing measures demonstrate their commitment to supporting women's leadership and addressing housing affordability in the community. The debate on leaf blowers highlights an ongoing tension between environmental concerns and the practical needs of local businesses.
The details
During the meeting, the council issued a proclamation recognizing the contributions of women in government, education, healthcare, and other fields in Madison. They also approved three ordinances related to the borough's affordable housing obligations and appropriated funds for environmental site investigation work and redevelopment projects. Much of the public comment period focused on the possibility of future restrictions on gas-powered leaf blowers, with residents arguing for regulations to address noise, air pollution, and health impacts, while landscapers and property owners opposed any ban due to the cost and effectiveness of electric equipment.
- The Madison Borough Council held the meeting on Monday, March 16, 2026.
- The council is scheduled to revisit the borough budget on March 23, 2026, with a public hearing and adoption vote planned for April 29, 2026.
The players
Robert Conley
The mayor of Madison, New Jersey.
John Forte
The president of the Madison Borough Council.
Al Landrigan
The chair of the Madison Borough Council's Public Safety Committee.
John Range
The chair of the Madison Borough Council's Finance Committee.
Sarah Murray
A physician who spoke in favor of restricting gas-powered leaf blowers.
Colette Kreskis
A nurse who spoke in favor of restricting gas-powered leaf blowers.
What they’re saying
“This is part of the process. There is no ordinance to share at this point because it has not been developed.”
— Robert Conley, Mayor
“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”
— Gordon Edgar, Grocery employee
What’s next
The council plans to continue gathering feedback from landscapers and other towns that have adopted similar leaf blower regulations before developing any proposal.
The takeaway
The Madison Borough Council's actions demonstrate their commitment to supporting women's leadership, addressing affordable housing, and carefully considering the community impact of potential leaf blower regulations, balancing environmental concerns with the needs of local businesses.
