A major topic of the meeting was the potential health risks associated with diesel emissions from a proposed warehouse development. One resident, David Moet, used a striking metaphor, comparing the exposure to diesel fumes to smoking cigarettes. Moet presented a pack of cigarettes during the meeting, citing the Surgeon General’s warning about the serious health risks of smoking, including lung cancer and heart disease. He argued that allowing the warehouse to operate would force residents, particularly children, to inhale harmful diesel emissions, effectively “forcing the residents to be smoking packs of cigarettes.” Moet urged the council to reject the warehouse proposal to protect the health of the community.

A counterpoint was raised by another speaker who challenged the focus on pollution. This speaker highlighted the economic repercussions of shutting down businesses due to pollution concerns, stating, “you lost over $4 million in lost revenue.” They emphasized the need for jobs in the community, especially for families struggling to meet basic needs, such as purchasing school supplies for children. The speaker criticized ongoing litigation related to the warehouse as “frivolous,” arguing that it had already cost the town significant tax revenue and could lead to further lawsuits and tax increases.

Public safety was another prominent issue discussed. A resident expressed concern for elderly individuals, including their grandfather, who may be at risk while crossing streets without adequate supervision. They suggested placing a police officer or a crossing guard at critical locations to enhance safety. Council members discussed the possibility of increasing patrols on Irwin Street, where speeding had become a notable issue, especially with children present at bus stops. Additionally, concerns were raised about a school bus stop on Hudson Street, with suggestions to relocate it for safety reasons. Council members considered the adequacy of crossing guards in specific areas, particularly at Logan Hill, and the potential reinstatement of a crossing guard at that location due to safety concerns.

The council also addressed enforcement of existing truck route restrictions. One council member urged the mayor to communicate with the chief of police to enhance enforcement on streets already designated for weight restrictions. They explained that while several streets are currently posted, measures would need to be updated once the council adopts an ordinance based on the new truck routes.

Tax billing practices were another focus of the meeting. A motion to extend the grace period for tax billing to September 4th was unanimously approved after a roll call vote. A resident voiced gratitude for the extension, emphasizing that many in the community had not received their tax bills. The resident referenced a conversation with County Administrator Alex Lorak, who confirmed that Phillipsburg was delayed in submitting necessary information, resulting in the county striking the tax rate on July 18th. The tax collector explained that generating estimated tax bills would incur additional costs and that they were not anticipating the late receipt of the tax rate, which arrived on July 22nd. The collector clarified that the office was engaged in printing and mailing bills immediately after receiving the certified rate.

The meeting also included discussions on various community events and initiatives. A positive announcement was made regarding an upcoming community event known as “Sneaker Day,” set to take place on August 25th. Arrangements for the event and requests for waivers for certain fees associated with using Walter’s Park were discussed, with the council appearing supportive of waiving these fees to facilitate community engagement for youth activities.

Councilman Clark provided updates on local events, including the upcoming Peber Railroad Festival scheduled for September 14th. He also mentioned his recent meeting with Senator Cory Booker, who donated $500,000 to Warren County’s Habitat for Humanity. Clark noted ongoing discussions regarding the American Legion building, which requires a new roof, and expressed optimism about obtaining grants to facilitate this repair.

The meeting continued with mentions of a “First Responders Day” at the local Farmers Market, scheduled for the upcoming Sunday, which includes a “touch a truck” event for children. One council member highlighted the town’s initiative to provide summer jobs for youth, enabling them to earn money for school-related expenses, and expressed the importance of instilling pride in the community through these opportunities.