The meeting commenced with Mayor Debbie Walker recognizing the Saywood South 12U All-Star baseball team for winning the Cal Ripken Bay Ruth 2024 Northern New Jersey state championship. This achievement marked a historic first for Old Bridge. The team had a busy night, including receiving awards from Senator Henry at Minino Park and an escorted bus ride to the meeting with police support. Brian, presumably a coach or organizer, accepted a certificate of recognition and attributed the team’s success to the improved conditions of the fields at Minino Park.

In a move for public safety, Chief Montagna introduced John Robel as the newest member of the Old Bridge Police Department. Robel, who has a five-year tenure with the Long Hill Police Department and a degree in criminal justice, took the oath of office with his family present, receiving badge number 304. The council expressed enthusiasm for his addition to the department.

Public safety emerged as a topic, particularly concerning the local police department’s staffing and the challenges posed by state laws. A speaker emphasized the community’s priority on safety and the department’s efforts to quickly replace retiring officers. The speaker highlighted the issue of repeat offenders, noting the state’s rules that often result in offenders being released soon after arrest. Citing a case where a suspect had reportedly robbed a car 16 times, the speaker urged community members to contact state officials to advocate for legal reforms to hold repeat offenders accountable.

During the public comments segment, several residents raised concerns about community safety. Emily, representing the Wood Haven community, detailed recent security incidents, including a burglary at her home and an attempted luring of a teenage girl. She noted that only 11 out of 15 security cameras in her community were operational, with several obstructed by trees. Emily requested increased security measures, including 24/7 on-site security personnel and more security cameras.

Crystal Cornish, also from Wood Haven, echoed these concerns, stating that the community felt unsafe and that communication with the management company had been largely ignored. Cornish emphasized the necessity for a visible police presence to ensure the safety of residents, particularly children.

In response, Police Chief Montagna addressed the issues raised, asserting that the reported incidents were not as severe as claimed. He clarified that there had been only one burglary in the development and that the luring incident involved an adult being approached by someone asking for a phone number. Chief Montagna emphasized the proactive measures taken by the police department, including daily patrols and detective engagement in patrol duties. He encouraged residents to bring their concerns directly to him for collaborative resolution.

The council expressed appreciation for the residents voicing their concerns. Councilman Asi congratulated the police department for adding new officers and recognized public safety as a priority. Councilwoman Dar Caro reiterated the importance of community safety and suggested a meeting between residents and the Chief to discuss their needs further.

The meeting also covered various administrative reports, including the 2024 annual road replacement program. Discover Construction LLC was awarded the contract as the lowest qualified bidder. The project, scheduled to start in the Fall of 2024 and last for 90 days, will include milling, resurfacing, pavement striping, under drainage installation, and compliant curb ramp construction. Additionally, bids were opened for the 2024 commuter parking lot restriping, awarded to Dan Suy and Sun Incorporated, with work expected to take one week in Fall 2024.

The council announced a September 11th memorial service at 6:00 p.m. at the Old Bridge Municipal Complex and encouraged community participation. Old Bridge Day was also highlighted, scheduled for September 21st from 12:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m., along with the Parks and Recreation Department’s fall brochure detailing various programs and registration dates.

During the meeting, residents also voiced concerns about internet service provided by Optimum, electric costs, and illegal dumping. Scott Landrew raised issues with the internet service, suggesting that the township facilitate alternative options, such as Verizon’s FiOS. Another resident criticized the Council for not lowering electric bills despite community votes for clean, affordable energy options. Nina Jock expressed frustration over illegal dumping and the financial burden of waterfront cleanups, questioning the commitment of the Public Works Department and the Council.

The council concluded the meeting by moving to a closed session to discuss litigation matters. The motion to exclude the public received unanimous support from the council.