A significant portion of the meeting was devoted to a recurring problem concerning water drainage between neighboring properties on Christopher Drive. The council heard from residents affected by water runoff, which has resulted in pooling water and potential property damage. Engineering staff from the Town Council had been engaged in surveying the area and proposed solutions, including cleaning the drainage easement and extending the drainage pipe. A resident, Mr. Rocco, voiced his concerns over the impact of water pooling in his yard on his property value and called for a timely resolution. His neighbor, Ms. La, cited compliance with permits and additional drainage installations as per the town’s guidance.

Another drainage-related discussion arose from concerns about the installation of a channel drain and PVC pipe pitched towards a resident’s house, leading to South Broad Street. The resident outlined the efforts taken to redirect their gutter system onto their property, which had led to several inspections and expenses. The council debated the amount of concrete in the yard and its approval status, focusing on the potential impact on a nearby pool. The director of community and economic development admitted errors by town staff in attempting to find a solution and assured continued efforts to resolve the issue. The council members called for civility and collaboration between the parties involved to find a common ground solution.

In addition to the drainage issues, the meeting addressed the operations of the animal shelter. There were concerns about staffing levels and the ability of the shelter to manage an overflow of animals. The council confirmed that no cuts to staffing levels had occurred and discussed a proposed increase in overtime to ensure adequate animal care. The proposed budget amendments included this provision for increased overtime, which the council members voted to approve. During the public hearing on the introduced budget, the council expressed appreciation for the collaborative effort in creating a lean budget.

The council also added a new resolution to the agenda to establish a contract with Phoenix Distributors for the sale and trade-in of surplus police firearms and related accessories. This move was approved without significant controversy.

The meeting included recognition of various initiatives, declaring May 18th as Armed Forces Awareness Day and acknowledging May as Mental Health Awareness Month. Furthermore, the council reviewed updates to Beverage Control licenses, results of a bond sale, and authorized the transfer and expansion of premise of an alcohol coverage license for a local business.

Public comments offered a glimpse into community concerns, ranging from questions about the Mercer Arc’s housing project for individuals with special needs to the impact on the community. Additional concerns brought forward included issues related to fireworks, water quality, and property drainage, including a debate about the placement of a fence. The director addressed these concerns, especially focusing on property drainage issues and the flow of water between properties. Plans for an upcoming meeting with Trent Water Works to discuss water quality and infrastructure were also shared.

The consent agenda, which encompassed various agreements, extensions, tax refunds, and performance bond releases, was approved with at least one council member expressing satisfaction with the ongoing collaboration with the Rutgers Cooperative Extension on stormwater management programs.

As the meeting came to a close, the council members extended well-wishes for Mother’s Day and reminders about upcoming community events, including a festival and planning sessions related to floodwaters and lead pipe problems.