One notable matter at the meeting involved a public comment from Thomas Price, a resident of South Spring Road, who voiced concerns about quality of life and safety in his neighborhood. Price highlighted reckless driving and excessive noise as major issues, stating, “It happens all the time… we can’t sleep at night with our windows open.” He had previously submitted a petition with 125 signatures, seeking action from the Council, but lamented the lack of sustained police presence and enforcement. Price recounted specific incidents, such as a driver losing control and damaging a speed limit sign, emphasizing the dangers posed to pedestrians, particularly children. He urged the Council to take immediate action to address the situation, noting, “I’ve talked to other City officials about it, no change.”

Following Price’s comments, the Council discussed several ordinances and resolutions. Ordinance 2024-45, amending the classification and compensation plans for the municipal judge, was presented by Councilman Franchetta. This ordinance, along with Ordinance 2024-46, which denied a request to amend the Center City Redevelopment Plan for a property on South 6th Street, passed without public input or dissent.

Another ordinance, 2024-49, concerned a sewer extension project for Cavalo Drive, appropriating $210,000 and authorizing the issuance of $200,000 in bonds to finance part of the project. This ordinance, like others, was adopted unanimously after a public hearing that saw no comments from the audience.

In addition to these legislative actions, the Council adopted several resolutions. Among them was Resolution 2024-25, recognizing Maria Marcato upon her retirement from public service. Marcato, who had served as a community service worker since January 2018, expressed her gratitude to the Board, stating, “Thank you to the board for inviting me to this special meeting. Similarly, Resolution 2024-374 recognized Thomas Shelton’s retirement, although he was not present to receive the recognition.

The meeting also saw the Council address Ordinance 2024-50, which approved easement agreements for drainage construction. Like previous ordinances, this too was adopted without public comment following a hearing. The Council also moved to schedule a public hearing for Ordinance 2024-51, which aims to amend the classification and compensation plans for the City’s alternate public defender, on September 10, 2024.

The consent agenda featured multiple resolutions, including Resolution 2024-375, approving the fiscal year 2024 budget for the Department of Community Development, and Resolution 2024-376, authorizing a shared services agreement for rock salt acquisition. Notably, Resolution 2024-387 involved a purchase order for email protection services amounting to $583,436. The consent agenda was approved with some abstentions, particularly from Council member Dr. Elizabeth Arthur on Resolution 2024-405.

Mayor Anthony Fanucci communicated various appointments, including reappointments to the Zoning Board of Adjustment and the Planning Board, which the Council ratified. Additionally, a council member reiterated concerns about traffic safety in East Vineland, specifically mentioning fatalities linked to reckless driving and the operation of ATVs. The council member stated, “there’s been 12 deaths in the last 18 months all as a result of careless driving,” underscoring the gravity of the issue. Other members echoed these concerns, stressing the need for parental involvement in promoting safe driving practices.

Community engagement was also a theme, with announcements of events such as a karaoke night on September 6 and a food truck festival on September 8. Council members highlighted these events as opportunities for local engagement and encouraged public participation.