The council’s approval of the new equipment for Unity Square Park and Cooper Field came after passionate appeals from the public, including a member of the Trenton Soccer League who thanked the council for their support. The upgrades to the soccer fields are part of a broader discussion on recreational opportunities for Trenton’s youth, which also included concerns about the delay in building promised soccer fields and the lack of resources for children in Unity Park. Community members highlighted the need for translated documents in Spanish to help non-English speaking parents engage with the park’s offerings.

Another topic that arose during the meeting was the proposed ordinance to make smoking or vaping cannabis in public unlawful. This sparked a debate on its potential impact on medical cannabis patients and fears of criminalizing impoverished residents. The council decided to table the ordinance until the July meeting to further clarify its legal and medical implications, as well as to seek counsel from the Cannabis Regulatory Commission. Concerns were raised about the possibility of incarceration for repeat offenders who fail to pay fines and the dangers of smoking marijuana in vehicles, particularly using bongs.

The meeting also touched on the development of a restoration hub by Creative Change Counseling, Inc., with funding from the Juvenile Justice Commission and the county. This hub aims to offer an array of support services for at-risk youth and families, including assessments, case management, and life skills training, and plans to collaborate with local agencies and faith-based organizations.

In matters of public health and safety, the council discussed the installation of metal detectors and baggage search machines at City Hall and police headquarters. The administration clarified the necessity of both types of equipment to ensure the security of these premises, with council members expressing support for the combined approach.

The city’s economic development was another focal point, with a new Housing and Economic Development (HED) director being mentioned. The council addressed concerns about response times for inquiries and suggested that those experiencing delays should contact the business administrator or Chief of Staff. Additionally, the council discussed a redevelopment project application and the rehabilitation of blighted properties, with a firefighter advocating for civil servant involvement in revitalization efforts.

A council member emphasized the need to serve the entire community, regardless of race, nationality, or immigration status.

The issue of school safety was brought to the council’s attention by a teacher from Trenton Central High School, who spoke about systemic issues at the school, including fights and the treatment of teachers by students. Although the council has limited control over school district matters, they agreed to pull an ordinance for further discussion to address the concerns raised.

Moreover, the council discussed the acquisition of a new location for the Trenton Animal Shelter to alleviate overcrowding and reduce expenditures. Director Wilson explained that the new location would enable the relocation of animals from Pennsylvania, leading to substantial cost savings and improved conditions. The council expressed their support for the resolution and the need for donations and support for the shelter.

The meeting concluded with the tabling of appointments due to the lack of resumes provided for council review. The council reiterated the importance of transparency and requested that appointees present themselves at the July meeting. Additionally, the Police Director clarified that a reported stabbing at Trenton Central High School was actually a simple assault that occurred off school grounds, with recent incidents involving students bringing knives to school being addressed.