The proposal to sell the GTMUA to a private entity emerged as the most issue. Residents expressed concerns about how the sale would affect utility billing and services. The potential privatization of the GTMUA also raised questions about the transparency of the bidding process, with three parties reportedly interested in the purchase. The State Comptroller’s Office had granted permission to proceed with the sale, yet the details of the sale process and its implications for the GTMUA team members and the township’s debt were a focal point of discussion.

The township’s financial obligations were scrutinized, with the council disclosing that the township’s debt stood at approximately $63.9 million as of December 31, 2024. The council further discussed financial matters in the context of the 2024 township budget, including a $2 million budget appropriation from the sewer utility to the general fund.

Another major topic was the unanimous council vote to amend the Land Development Ordinance, effectively prohibiting short-term rentals in all residential districts. This amendment aimed to address concerns over the impact of short-term rentals on the character and stability of residential neighborhoods.

The council also tackled the introduction of ordinance 0-24 D14, a bond ordinance authorizing $300,000 for emergency repairs to the sewer utility system. The discussion on this topic included considerations of the use of surplus funds versus the decision to bond for the repairs. The council explained the necessity of a bond ordinance and the fiscal strategies for utilizing the funds.

In terms of routine legislative actions, the council moved through the consent agenda without any requests to remove items and conducted public hearings on ordinances amending chapters related to swimming pools and streets and sidewalks. These hearings did not elicit comments from the public, and the ordinances advanced to the second reading without incident.

Public comments included a range of issues from the appointment of Emergency Management committee members to requests for clarification on previous construction loans. One resident’s email requested information about the township’s communications with the New Jersey Controller’s office regarding the GT sewer utility, to which the response stated that such communications are exempt from disclosure under the Open Public Records Act. Another resident’s email expressed support for the Gloucester Township Sewer Utility, recognizing the township’s significant investments in infrastructure, equipment, and personnel.

Aside from financial and legislative matters, the council issued a proclamation supporting the “Click It or Ticket” mobilization to advocate for seat belt usage. Furthermore, the council announced community events, including Gloucester Township Day and the township’s inaugural Juneteenth celebration.