Laura F., the town’s beloved children’s librarian, received a proclamation for her 49 years of service, with acknowledgments coming from the mayor and town officials. Her commitment to the library and its youngest patrons, especially during the challenging times of a global pandemic, was the focus of emotional commendations. Adding to the celebratory atmosphere, the council recognized Sophia M. as one of the first young women in the town to achieve the rank of Eagle Scout. Her notable leadership, community service, and successful completion of a project to build a bridge at the Green Village Conservation Trail in Chatham were commended.

However, the tone shifted when residents took the floor during the public comment session to express urgent concerns over pedestrian and bicycle safety. Dana N. highlighted the dangers faced by children and teens on the roads, urging the council to take immediate steps to enhance safety measures. She emphasized the risk to youth and the need for more permanent solutions. Barbara, a resident, recounted an accident involving her son, advocating for the establishment of a pedestrian safety task force. Andrew pointed out the safety issues in school zones and on Park and Mountain avenues, while Steve called for pedestrian safety education and enforcement, referencing statistics on pedestrian fatalities and vehicle collisions. John, from a nonprofit organization, spoke about the growing use of electric scooters and bicycles and the high rate of pedestrian fatalities in New Jersey.

The council responded to these concerns by indicating that a pedestrian safety task force was under consideration, which would address and work towards solutions for the safety issues raised. Additionally, the meeting included discussions on traffic studies, sidewalk improvements, and the installation of valves and other safety measures for cyclists and pedestrians.

On the administrative side, the council addressed several resolutions and ordinances. They approved a bill list, authorized professional services contracts, submitted grant applications for pedestrian paths, and authorized contracts for gas pressure relief valves and recycling services. Modifications to the cooperative agreement with Union County and ordinances related to parking restrictions, capital improvements for the fire department, and sewer service systems were also discussed. Salary and compensation for township officials were on the agenda, along with community event reports, such as the annual restaurant month, a 5K run for mental health, and historical preservation efforts.

Infrastructure projects were a part of the meeting, with the council announcing road milling and paving plans, the receipt of grant awards for sidewalk replacements, and field improvements. Large projects, including drainage work, road reconstruction, and flooding projects, were updated, along with progress at the sewer plant and the need to address slow delivery times for parts. The council emphasized collaboration between the town, police, and schools on the Pedestrian Task Force and safety campaign. A citizens’ hearing brought questions regarding a proposed agreement between the township and the Board of Education, with particular focus on the term “lease” and the nature of the agreement. The session concluded with the council moving into executive session to discuss attorney-client privilege and contract negotiations related to the municipal complex.