The meeting began with Mayor John McCormick presenting a proclamation to POAC and Pace for their work with the autism community. Speakers, including Sue Bordon from the Woodbridge Board of Education, celebrated the town’s efforts in creating a supportive educational landscape. Lena Suarez Angelino, a social worker, highlighted the challenges special needs families face, emphasizing the community’s role in providing necessary resources.

Additional commendations were given to teachers and paraprofessionals for fostering an inclusive atmosphere for preschool children and for their unwavering dedication to education. The positive influence of community programs like Buddy Ball and the Mayor’s Cafe was also noted.

The council then turned to other agenda items, approving various ordinances for second and third readings and passing first reading ordinances, alongside 22 resolutions by consent. The public comments section shifted the focus to the town’s animal welfare policies, specifically the management of feral cats.

Community members raised concerns about the disappearance of TNR cats from a colony and questioned the current level of protection for these animals. The importance of the TNR program was emphasized, with speakers advocating for its role in controlling feral cat populations and ensuring their well-being. The emotional weight of the issue was underscored by specific cases of rescued cats presented by the speakers.

Discussion ensued about the township’s approach to stray animals, with one resident highlighting the environmental and public health implications of the increasing stray population. The council acknowledged these concerns, providing insights into the township’s initiatives to assist with TNR and animal control. Despite not having a designated budget for TNR, the council expressed openness to supporting organizations involved in these efforts.

One council member highlighted resident complaints about stray cats, while another updated on community events and programs, such as senior art exhibitions, yoga classes, and youth activities.

The meeting concluded with a joint session with the health department, where updates on the Animal Control Clinic, Public Health Grants, and Health mobile services were discussed. The council’s engagement with these issues underscored the ongoing efforts to address both human and animal welfare in Woodbridge Township.

The absence of a clear policy for TNR cats in the township emerged as a issue, warranting future discussions. The council’s recognition of this gap and willingness to consider collaboration with TNR advocacy groups suggest potential developments in local animal welfare policy.