The council meeting began with a presentation by Mr. Henry on the Camden Joint Insurance Fund (GIF) safety incentive program. Mr. Henry emphasized the importance of accident investigations, detailing the steps necessary to conduct thorough investigations, including preserving accident scenes, gathering information, and documenting incidents. He stressed that proper documentation is crucial, stating, “if it isn’t documented, it won’t stand up in court.” The presentation underscored the necessity of immediate corrective actions and the availability of training resources through the GIF to prevent future accidents.

Following Mr. Henry’s presentation, Councilwoman Regina Philipps introduced a proposal for K9 donation bins, designed to fundraise for the police department’s K9 units. The bins, managed by a nonprofit organization, would be placed in designated locations such as the sports complex on Devon Avenue and the back area of Hofs Park. Councilwoman Philipps explained, “they set up the bins in town, we pick the locations,” ensuring that the nonprofit would handle maintenance and collection duties. Each bin was expected to generate between $100 to $120 per month, potentially yielding $2,400 annually, which could be used for K9-related expenses like food and veterinary care. The council discussed branding the bins with the borough’s logo and considered the environmental benefits of promoting recycling and reducing waste.

The council transitioned to discussions about waste collection bins, noting the responsiveness of the chosen vendor. The proposed bins, to be placed in visible locations, would be emptied twice a week. While some council members appreciated the frequency, there were concerns about potential misuse, especially in areas frequented by children. The council emphasized the importance of visible placements to mitigate issues such as overflow and littering.

During the Bar Engineers report, updates on several construction projects were provided. The Haddon Heights Road program, particularly Garden Street between First and Second, was reported as nearly complete, with only a few punch list items remaining. Other projects, including those on Maple and East High streets, were out for bid, with openings scheduled for August 27th. The second phase of the St. Martin’s project was also out for bid, with the council hoping for favorable outcomes by the next meeting in September. Additionally, an accessible playground project at Hofs Park was in the design finalization stage, coordinated with the recreation committee and the CFO to expedite equipment ordering.

Further updates included the construction of the Lake Street Pump Station emergency bypass, expected to be completed by the end of August, weather permitting. The council also announced the approval of a multi-use trail, part of a request sanctioned by the county open space committee.

In new business, the council introduced Ordinance 2024-1551, appropriating $12,500 for a capital improvement fund aimed at purchasing an ambulance and stretcher under a shared service agreement. The public hearing and final adoption of this ordinance were scheduled for September 3, 2024. This ordinance, introduced by a council member, was unanimously supported by the rest of the council.

Several resolutions were presented, including the approval of active membership for a new firefighter and various budget insertions related to grants and funding. One resolution authorized refunds for summer recreation fees, while another permitted St. Rose of Lima Church to conduct a 50-50 raffle drawing. A minor issue regarding a typo in one of the resolutions prompted a brief discussion to ensure necessary amendments were made.

The public comment portion of the meeting was opened, but no members of the public came forward to speak. Subsequently, the council recessed for an executive session before adjourning the meeting smoothly, with motions moved and seconded by council members.