The council’s support for ranked-choice voting was a major highlight. A resolution backing this voting system, which allows voters to rank candidates in order of preference, was introduced. Senator Andrew Zwicker, who sponsors the legislation, provided a statement emphasizing the benefits of ranked-choice voting, such as increased voter turnout and more positive campaigning. The resolution was described as an “enabling bill,” giving municipalities the option to adopt ranked-choice voting. Advocates like David Goodman of Represent Us of New Jersey and Veronica Azwa of Voter Choice New Jersey praised the council, noting that Princeton was positioning itself as a leader in electoral reform alongside cities like Hoboken and Jersey City.

Public comments further underscored the importance of this initiative. Avery Doran highlighted the system’s potential to empower marginalized communities and foster more civil campaigns. Renee Steinhagen added personal context, expressing gratitude for the council’s leadership. Barry Bender from Forked River also thanked the council, emphasizing the role of local support in influencing state legislators. The discussion concluded with a photo opportunity, capturing the solidarity among supporters of the reform.

Parking issues for residents of the Princeton Housing Authority (PHA) were another pressing topic. Victoria from Bruce Circle raised concerns about limited parking spaces at Spruce Circle, compounded by competition from park visitors. She expressed frustration over the requirement to contact the police for permission to park in the municipal lot across the street, leading to complications and towing threats. Mr. Payne supported her comments, calling for a cooperation agreement between the council and the PHA to comprehensively address these issues.

Council members acknowledged the relevance of these concerns. An administrator and an engineer were among those present to explore solutions. It was noted that the informal agreement allowing PHA staff to park in the municipal lot was not intended for residents. A council member suggested reintroducing resident parking stickers, although previous attempts resulted in more stickers than available spaces. The idea of a lottery system was floated, but the council stressed the need for a formal cooperation agreement to resolve the parking challenges.

The meeting also saw the introduction of several ordinances. Ordinance 2024-25 was introduced without discussion, with a public hearing scheduled for September 23, 2024. Ordinance 24-33, concerning the bond for replacing the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system at the municipal building, was also introduced, with a public hearing set for September 9, 2024. Both ordinances passed via roll call votes.

Resolutions were another focal point. Resolution 24-254, supporting ranked-choice voting in municipal and school board elections, was discussed extensively. The council also approved a resolution awarding a contract to Jesco Inc for a new 2025 Leeboy 7000C paver, costing $8,119. Another resolution extended a bid contract with GE Inc for traffic signal maintenance services for one year, with a not-to-exceed amount of $42,400.

Additional resolutions included authorizing an increase to a contract with Santis Construction Inc for repairs to the Harrison Street Park Bridge, raising the contract amount by $2,996 to a new total of $7,850. A more substantial resolution authorized a payment of $354,935 to the township of Lawrence for the purchase of a 2680 XP Track Beast Recycler Grinder for the Joseph H. Mahar Jr. Ecological Facility. This shared service arrangement was highlighted as cost-effective.

The council also authorized a contract for a chassis-mounted mechanical street sweeper for $352,900, necessitated by new state storm water management regulations. Financing was discussed, with funds coming from the capital budget and grants. Finally, a resolution to increase the budget for professional services related to the design of the Trune Road Improvement Project by $77,500, bringing the new total to $164,000, was passed without debate.