A major focus of the council meeting was the proposed amendment to the tree preservation ordinance. The ordinance, prompted by the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection’s revised Municipal Stormwater General Permit, aims to establish comprehensive regulations concerning tree removal and replacement. The council underscored the importance of balancing environmental preservation with property rights, reflecting input from key stakeholders, including the Fair Haven Shade Tree Commission and numerous residents.

The proposed ordinance mandates that any healthy tree removed must be replaced, supporting the community’s tree canopy and mitigating risks associated with deforestation due to disease and storms. A notable aspect includes generating funding for the Shade Tree Commission to plant new trees throughout Fair Haven. During the discussion, council members raised concerns about various elements of the ordinance, including the protection of “Heritage trees” and the process for overseeing tree removal and replacement applications.

Questions arose regarding the clarity of the application process and the enforcement mechanisms to ensure compliance. The council debated the role of a designated decision-maker and the use of financial deposits to guarantee tree replacements. Additionally, the importance of post-planting tree maintenance was emphasized, with suggestions for incorporating guidance from the Shade Tree Commission to ensure newly planted trees thrive.

Concerns were also raised about the adequacy of documentation when removing hazard trees and the responsibilities of property owners in maintaining tree health.

Shifting focus, the council introduced new regulations for e-bikes and e-scooters. The ordinance addresses safety concerns due to the rising number of serious accidents involving e-bikes, particularly among teenagers. The regulations prohibit e-bikes from being used on sidewalks, though riders can walk their bikes to bike racks. The council emphasized the importance of educational initiatives to ensure compliance, particularly for younger riders unfamiliar with road rules. There was a consensus on involving the police department in these educational efforts to promote safe riding practices.

The council’s discussions extended to public comments about the enforcement of e-bike regulations, especially regarding penalties for juvenile offenders. A resident raised concerns about imposing fines on minors, highlighting potential gaps in accountability for juvenile violations.

In addition to tree preservation and e-bike regulations, the council addressed several other topics. These included the management of the Shade Tree Trust Fund, debates about the allocation of funds for tree replanting versus maintenance, and funding for the Fish Chapel parking lot improvements. The council discussed various funding options, including using bonded capital and pay-as-you-go strategies, to address stormwater mitigation measures and other project expenses.

The meeting also touched on a proposed deer hunt in Fair Haven, with a resident advocating for alternative population control methods such as surgical sterilization and immuno-contraception.

Community events and initiatives were also highlighted, with discussions about the holiday season, the installation of new trees in borough properties, and the Green Team’s upcoming Sports Swap event. The council emphasized the importance of continuing traditions and promoting community engagement and sustainability.