Haddon Heights Council Tackles Traffic Safety and Brewery Expansion
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Meeting Type:
City Council
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Meeting Date:
03/19/2024
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Recording Published:
03/19/2024
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Duration:
48 Minutes
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State:
New Jersey
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County:
Camden County
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Towns:
Haddon Heights
- Meeting Overview:
In a recent meeting, the Haddon Heights Borough Council addressed community concerns, including a proposal for a change in traffic patterns near a school and a local brewery’s plan to expand its outdoor seating. Residents voiced their concerns about the traffic on Garden Street and the potential safety hazards for school children. The Council also discussed a brewing company’s application to improve their establishment, touching upon the need for a tailored approach to the borough’s right-of-way. Additionally, cyber security training for officials and questions about a proposed sober living residence were on the agenda, highlighting the council’s focus on the safety and well-being of the community.
The meeting opened with residents expressing concerns over traffic safety, particularly on Garden Street in front of the school. Hayden Woodworth presented a request for the street to be designated as one-way, citing high traffic volume and safety concerns, including incidents of cars entering their driveway and executing hazardous K-turns. Another resident, Anton Donev, echoed these worries, pointing out the chaotic traffic during school dismissal times and extracurricular activities. The council members acknowledged the importance of neighborhood consent for such changes and mentioned that the chief of police was consulted and had no objections to the proposal.
The council then shifted focus to the Tanner Brewing planning board application, which proposed to keep the sidewalk clear while installing picnic tables in the curb strip, contingent on construction code approvals. The council deliberated the need for the applicant to enter into an agreement with the mayor and council to permit the improvements within the borough’s right-of-way. One council member expressed concerns about the process’s unique nature and the precedent it might set.
Moving on to matters of governance and risk, the council discussed the upcoming elections and the importance of consolidating all official risk at a subsequent council meeting. The topic of cyber security was also brought up, with council members emphasizing the need for all officials to undertake cyber security training to ensure borough compliance and enhance overall cyber security efforts.
During the public comment period, residents raised questions about a proposed sober living residence. The council was cautious in their responses, citing ongoing legal considerations and deferring to the advice of their solicitors for when more information could be released to the public. Queries about the law firm handling the property purchase and the agency responsible for approving the facility were also brought forward, but detailed information was withheld due to these legal sensitivities.
In addition to these concerns, the council also reviewed various administrative tasks and reports from community departments. Updates on community events and projects, such as those from the fire and police departments, were shared. The council discussed upcoming meetings and reviewed various resolutions, including the introduction of new ordinances concerning animal licenses and the management of traffic flow within the borough.
Zachary Houck
City Council Officials:
Christopher Morgan, Tom Ottoson, Regina Philipps, Kate Russo, Matthew Pagan, Kate Harron, Kelly Santosusso (RMC, Cmr)
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Meeting Type:
City Council
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Meeting Date:
03/19/2024
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Recording Published:
03/19/2024
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Duration:
48 Minutes
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Notability Score:
Routine
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State:
New Jersey
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County:
Camden County
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Towns:
Haddon Heights
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