Public safety was a primary concern, with the Council receiving updates from the Office of Emergency Management (OEM), which reported no need for a coordinated response to an earthquake that had no local impact. The fire department logged 387 calls in February, most of which were EMS-related, but also included eight fires, half occurring in South Orange. The police department noted one robbery, 14 larceny thefts, five auto thefts, a recent burglary, and a fight at the local high school. The police also highlighted their initiative to distribute free gun locks and disseminate gun safety information, which the mayor recommended be included in the town’s newsletters and website.

The discussion on public safety seamlessly transitioned into the topic of domestic violence. The council recognized the need for more volunteers to assist with domestic violence cases and also addressed the process of dealing with incidents of graffiti.

A significant portion of the meeting focused on the consideration of electric scooters and bicycles within the town. The conversation revolved around the need to institute regulations to ensure the safety of these modes of transportation while also fostering their usage within the community. The council reviewed various town ordinances and engaged with public feedback on this topic. The council agreed to proceed with the drafting of an ordinance to regulate these vehicles.

Furthermore, the council took steps to enhance the town’s biking infrastructure. They authorized an engineer to seek proposals from traffic consultants to update the town’s bike plan, emphasizing the importance of promoting biking and ensuring safety. The council acknowledged the value of data on crashes and speeding to inform the consultant’s work.

The meeting also touched on the drafting of a code of conduct, which is slated to be discussed by the township committee. This code targets bias and harassment, especially in the context of youth sports events.

Public engagement at the meeting revealed the community’s vested interest in various issues. A community board member updated the council on the board’s focus areas for the upcoming year, including use of force reviews, community engagement, and restorative justice initiatives. Another community member brought forth concerns and suggestions about neighborhood parking rules, the need for the Board of Education to approve an easement for The Greenway, and the proposed e-bike ordinance. This prompted a response that the e-bike ordinance was in its early stages, and there is a need to inform law enforcement about the differences between e-bikes, scooters, and mopeds while considering the community’s needs.

Lastly, the council announced an upcoming award ceremony to honor members of the Maplewood Police Department for their exemplary service. This event aims to recognize the dedication and achievements of the town’s law enforcement officers.