The council was briefed on the purchase of Creek Turn Park and the engagement of an LSRP for environmental services since 2018. The park’s design plans were shared, including the intention to reserve 60% of the area for open space, while earmarking 4 acres along Route 38 for commercial development to help cover acquisition costs. The presentation by Scott covered various aspects of the site’s characteristics, such as elevation, proximity to Rancocas Creek, and the shared driveway with a neighboring law office. The council discussed the need for specific permits for constructing trails and boardwalks and raised questions about the plans for pedestrian access from a nearby senior development, considering the possible impact on traffic and safety.

Sergeant Antonucci reported an incident at Tavern and Table where a bar fight escalated to shots being fired. Although there were no injuries, the event prompted concerns about local safety and discussions on measures to prevent similar issues, including additional patrols and better crowd management at closing time.

The council also addressed the municipal roadway design, incorporating vehicular, pedestrian, and bike access, and debated the practicality and cost of various park features. The proposed outdoor classroom or amphitheater and the park’s signage and pathways were topics of conversation, with an emphasis on creating an engaging visitor experience. The future phases of the park were outlined, including connections to neighboring communities and enhancements to the shoreline.

During the meeting, council members considered the artistic design elements of the park, such as lawn mounds and the preservation of a troll sculpture. The practical uses of these features, including whether the mounds would facilitate activities like sledding, were debated. The council also discussed the eradication of invasive bamboo and ivy to protect existing trees. The comprehensive inclusion of stakeholder input was commended, and the council expressed enthusiasm for the project, which would offer various amenities like accessible picnic areas, fishing line recycling receptacles, and educational signage about the site’s history.

A public hearing allowed community members to voice their support for the park design and stakeholder engagement. The council deliberated on the timeline for the project, considering funding through a Green Acres application, and the odds of securing the grant. The importance of securing additional capital funding of $500,000 for the current year’s budget was underscored to match the grant and support the $250,000 already appropriated.

Maintenance concerns about the park’s features, such as mounds and a kayak tie-up, were brought up. The council decided to maintain a slope ratio that simplifies mowing and discussed the kayak tie-up’s placement concerning tide changes and ice flows. Additionally, the council planned for the preservation of historical artifacts and educational signage to inform visitors about the area’s past. The estimated cost for the first phase of the park’s development exceeded $1.4 million, with the council acknowledging the higher costs associated with prevailing wage rates.

The designation of Burlington County towns as overburdened communities was scrutinized, with discussions on the criteria and implications of this classification. The council also received updates on housing elements and fair share plans, with no objections and readiness for a compliance hearing.

The council conveyed appreciation for the town planner and committee’s efforts in various initiatives and discussed upcoming events such as the 100th anniversary dinner dance and Black History Month celebrations. Financial matters, including project expenses over 20 years, were reviewed, and motions were passed to pay bills and adjourn the meeting. Council members expressed gratitude for contributions from various individuals and considered the broader implications of different decisions and designations.