The council’s approval of the stormwater management ordinance was a development. This ordinance was designed to bring Bridgewater into compliance with state laws concerning stormwater control. Council members discussed the financial implications of the ordinance, particularly the costs associated with inspecting privately maintained detention basins. The township engineer clarified that the ordinance would not increase fees for the township but would require owners of privately maintained detention basins to notify the township annually about their maintenance activities.

One council member estimated that there could be “six to 700 outfalls” requiring attention.

Public comments on the ordinance were invited, with a resident voicing strong support. The resident highlighted the importance of the ordinance for the community, stating, “I can’t tell you how important I think this is… we all have had water in our basement… the cost of doing nothing is far greater than the cost of doing something.” The resident also referenced the tragic loss of lives during Hurricane Ida, framing the ordinance as a necessary measure for enhancing safety and infrastructure resilience. Following this input, the council unanimously passed the ordinance.

The meeting also included a report from a council member on a recent zoning board meeting about a proposal by Somerset Property Associates LLC to convert Class A office space into a senior daycare facility. This proposal was seen as beneficial for the community, providing resources for seniors and repurposing office space creatively.

In another segment of the meeting, Councilman Pedrosa acknowledged the passing of George Baitman, a lifelong Bridgewater resident and active community member. Pedrosa reflected on Baitman’s contributions and shared his connection to him through their shared educational background. He also recounted a ceremony at the historic Prince Rogers Cemetery, honoring the sacrifices of the United States Colored Troops during the Civil War. Pedrosa encouraged others to watch a video he posted on Facebook featuring a reenactor discussing this important history.

Councilman Kirsh reported on several community events and observances. He highlighted the significance of the September 11th remembrance ceremonies, the Somerset Patriots Day event supporting individuals with disabilities, and the U Mid-Autumn Lantern Festival celebrating Chinese American culture. Kirsh also spoke at George Baitman’s funeral and noted the positive turnout and engagement from families at events like the JCC Community Day and the Touch a Truck Event. He mentioned an upcoming fall food drive in collaboration with the Bridgewater United soccer association to collect food for the Food Network of Somerset County.

During the public comment period, Joan Gyer commended a local police officer’s professionalism in handling a situation with a young adult male and raised concerns about a recent increase in the theft of political signs from residents’ homes. Gyer urged the council and the public to use social media to denounce this behavior, stating, “this needs to stop.” She also emphasized the importance of focusing on issues like lowering taxes, storm damage prevention, and gun violence safety.

Kathy Franco expressed her discontent with the appearance of the municipal building’s front entrance, citing overgrown weeds. Franco also questioned the delay in providing public access to the Vare property, purchased in 2018, and mentioned concerns about the current state of Camp Cromwell, including broken fences and overgrowth. She called for clarity on the number of redevelopment projects in the township and the council’s strategy for attracting new businesses.

The council also addressed various resolutions, including a contract for snow removal services for the upcoming winter season and the authorization for purchasing road salt. A resolution supporting a New Jersey Department of Transportation project concerning the Route 202, 206, and Route 22 interchange was also discussed, with questions about the public’s awareness of the project’s details.

Mayor Matthew Moench expressed gratitude towards the council and staff for the successful September 11th ceremony and highlighted recognitions given to Councilman Allen Kurdyla and Council Vice President Howard Norgalis as “Seniors of Distinction” from Congressman Tom Kane Jr.’s office.