The contentious discussion centered around the proposed ordinance 20-24-1, which aimed to enhance efficiency and service delivery by consolidating the three advisory boards into one entity to be known as the community services advisory committee. Council member Leticia Fraga proposed amendments to the ordinance, suggesting an increase in the number of committee members and alternates, and renaming the new body as the “advisory committee on affordable housing, Human Services, and racial, social, and economic equity.” Despite the amendments being approved, the proposal met with strong resistance from community members who expressed a shared sentiment that the consolidation could diminish the effectiveness of the Civil Rights Commission and reduce the public’s involvement in government matters.

Community members Walter Bliss, Larry Spou, and Melissa Guzman, among others, delivered powerful statements against the disbandment of the stand-alone Civil Rights Commission. They emphasized the commission’s vital role in maintaining vigilance against discrimination and ensuring that issues of hate remain a priority for local governance. Mickey Mendelson, a representative from Not In Our Town Princeton, and Dewar Hammond also expressed distress over the lack of prior input from the Civil Rights Commission members and the public, urging the council to delay action and allow time for more thorough discussion.

Residents Veronica, Wilma Solomon, and Kim Dorman shared their concerns about the reduction in the commission’s visibility and functionality, urging the council to consider preserving the Civil Rights Commission as an independent entity. Eugene Evans, Ronald Ponder, and Tommy Parker’s partner, Joan Race Parker, called for a more inclusive process and the establishment of an oversight committee to ensure direct communication and coordination among the existing commissions.

In response to the community’s feedback, council members expressed various viewpoints. Councilwoman Michelle Pirone Lambros thanked the community for their engagement, while Councilwoman Eve Niedergang acknowledged the process’s shortcomings and the need for a new vision to deliver services effectively. Mayor Mark Freda shared comments from Jeff Grosser highlighting the Human Services Department’s efforts to improve communication and collaboration.

The meeting also brought to light other community concerns, such as the increase in unhoused individuals in Princeton, which one council member stated had risen by 400% in recent years. This highlighted the ongoing need for collaborative efforts to address such community issues. Councilman Leighton Newlin made a statement about the emotional challenges faced by underserved populations, particularly the African American community, and the importance of addressing discrimination and civil rights violations.

In addition to the discussion on the proposed ordinance, the meeting commenced with an awards ceremony for the Princeton Fire Department, recognizing members for their long-standing service and commitment to the community. The police chief’s monthly report was presented, noting the success of the winter coat drive, which collected and distributed over 350 winter coats to those in need.

Another announcement was the award of a $1 million grant from the New Jersey Department of Transportation for pedestrian improvements to T Hune Road. The grant is expected to fund the completion of missing sidewalks.

Councilwoman Eve Niedergang also made several announcements, including introducing a new open space manager and an upcoming initiative from the library to declare Princeton a book sanctuary. She reminded residents of the annual dog licensing requirement and announced a free rabies clinic.

The public comments section saw residents like Michelle Tuck Ponder and Irene Bamun raising concerns over pedestrian safety and affordable housing, respectively. The latter sparked a discussion about the percentage of affordable units in the new Avalon development and the importance of providing sufficient affordable housing opportunities.

Other ordinances discussed included the consolidation of various advisory boards into a new committee and the proposed dissolution of the sewer committee, with its functions transitioning to the sewer staff. The council approved a resolution for public parking fee regulation and introduced an ordinance authorizing the lease of a portion of the community park south tennis facility. Discussions also included the approval of resolutions related to alcoholism and drug abuse grants, landfill gas monitoring, and solid waste collection.