The council addressed the proposed cannabis ordinance, which aims to increase the licensing fees for new and renewal licenses to $15,000 and $10,000, respectively, from the previous amounts of $500. This adjustment is intended to allow for the Chief Financial Officer to engage an external firm to audit the financial records submitted by cannabis cultivators, thereby improving oversight. The council later passed a resolution for issuing these licenses, which included Hillview Med Incorporated. This firm had been previously operating without a valid local license since January 1, causing concerns about compliance with local regulations and construction standards, such as fencing and security measures. These issues prompted the council to emphasize the importance of strict adherence to licensing ordinances moving forward.

Another topic was the approval of various sidewalk replacement projects in Green View Park, Popper Avenue, and Rock LGE Terrace. The contract for these projects was awarded to Cellan Sun General Contractor for $249,600. Additionally, the council discussed the Route 23 sewer project, approving a change order that increased the contract with PNA Contractors by $3,956.48, bringing the total to $5,682,700.93. Despite this increase, the project remains under budget by $16,000, and restoration work is ongoing.

Financial matters were also a key focus during the meeting. The council approved the sale of Rescue 2, a fire department vehicle, for $31,000. Fire Company 2 had requested 18% of the sale proceeds, claiming they had contributed that percentage of the funding back in the 1980s. However, the council agreed with the town manager’s recommendation to deposit the full proceeds into the reserve for fire apparatus, emphasizing that this would benefit the entire fire department.

The council also discussed the appropriation of $30,000 for the acquisition of an ambulance, a necessary administrative step as the amount had been previously budgeted but not formally appropriated due to uncertainties during the pandemic. Additionally, the council approved the purchase of Spatial Data Logic software for the health department, which will assist in managing licenses. This acquisition is fully funded by a grant, highlighting efficient use of taxpayer dollars.

The meeting included updates on several community projects and events. The Martin Berry House phase 3 construction project saw a reduction in costs by $7,500 due to decreased work requirements. The Parks and Recreation committee reported progress on projects such as the anticipated opening of pickleball courts and a delayed tree planting initiative now scheduled to be completed by September 30. The council also noted upcoming community events, including a fundraiser by the American Legion Post 450 and a Unico ceremony on September 11.

In terms of environmental initiatives, the council mentioned the styrofoam collection scheduled for January 2025 and the mayor’s river cleanup event planned for April 12. The environmental committee has exceeded its goal of collecting 1,000 items for recycling. Additionally, library repairs to the parking lot were noted, with thanks extended to the Department of Public Works.

The council also addressed parking concerns on West Parkway, particularly in relation to Atlantic Health’s request for parking restrictions near their facilities. The council debated the necessity of these restrictions, with differing opinions on whether current regulations were sufficient or if additional measures should be taken. Some members suggested monitoring the situation during the upcoming school season to assess the impact of existing parking conditions.

Expressions of condolences were made regarding the passing of Frank Spaz, a community member recognized for his contributions to the town. Congratulations were also extended to new members of the fire department. Updates from the Economic Development and Senior Citizen Advisory Committees highlighted ongoing efforts to enhance community engagement.

In public comments, a resident expressed gratitude towards the Shade Tree Commission and inquired about the memorial tree program and a grant for a sidewalk rail across from the high school. The council clarified that the memorial tree program still exists and that the sidewalk grant is being divided into phases, with the first phase moving forward.