An important segment of the meeting was devoted to the AO Polymer site, which has been under scrutiny since being placed on the national priorities list in 1983. EPA representatives Rich Pajel and David Montoya outlined the history of contamination at the site, explaining how volatile chemicals had leaked into the groundwater due to poor waste management practices at a resin manufacturing plant that operated from the 1960s to the early 1990s. They detailed the remediation efforts, including a soil vapor extraction system and a groundwater pumping and treatment system that operated until 2018 and 2020, respectively.

The council members were presented with visual data showing the extent of the chemical plume in the groundwater. Discussions focused on the concentration levels of various contaminants, including trichloroethylene (TCE), trichloroethane (TCA), and perchloroethylene (PCE). The EPA representatives assured that current contaminant levels are below the thresholds that would necessitate additional remedial measures, and emphasized the importance of ongoing monitoring.

Public concerns centered around the potential health risks posed by vapor intrusion, particularly for children and vulnerable populations frequenting nearby areas such as Station Park. Peter Hansen, a principal owner of Ecosciences and an expert in vapor intrusion, concurred with the EPA’s findings. He noted that while the presence of such contamination sites is unfortunate, they are not uncommon in New Jersey, and progress has been made in cleaning up the site.

Additional discussions highlighted the need for continued vigilance and possible further testing, despite the EPA’s assurances. Concerns were raised about fluctuations in contaminant levels and the potential impact of these changes on public health. Council members and residents urged for increased transparency and ongoing communication to ensure community safety.

Another topic was the potential health risks associated with a specific site near Station Park. It was noted that contamination levels of certain chemicals, particularly TCE, had spiked following the removal of a system designed to extract these chemicals. Representatives from the environmental oversight agencies reassured that cleanup goals had been met and that overall contamination levels were declining.

During the public comment period, residents expressed their distress over historical and ongoing contamination issues. One resident recounted personal health impacts due to groundwater pollution and urged the council to take more proactive measures. Another resident, Jim Castore, provided a historical perspective on health issues stemming from past contamination, emphasizing the need for further investigation and transparency.

In addition to environmental concerns, the council discussed other matters, including the recent increase in rabies cases in the county and the necessity for pet vaccinations. A health update revealed approximately 200 cases, with 29 reported in Sparta alone during August.

The council also tackled issues related to local businesses and their participation in planning meetings. Business owners expressed frustration over the current structure of meetings, which they felt did not allow adequate time to present their concerns. The business development committee requested the planning board to consider implementing time limits on speakers to ensure businesses could effectively communicate their messages.

Moreover, the council approved the introduction of an ordinance aimed at amending the township’s flood damage prevention regulations. This ordinance, in response to new statutory guidelines from FEMA and New Jersey’s state legislature, aims to ensure compliance with national flood insurance program regulations. The council emphasized the importance of communication and adequate notice to property owners about the changes, particularly those in flood-prone areas.

The council also discussed the status of Chief Financial Officer Sam Rome, who is currently on leave, and the appointment of an interim CFO. Additionally, updates were provided on other committee activities, including efforts by the master plan subcommittee and the film ready committee, which is anticipated to gain designation from the New Jersey film commission.

Further discussions included the community’s response to a recent celebration for a local resident and the challenges faced by the Sparta Food Pantry due to the loss of a major food supplier. The council member responsible for website updates promised to ensure that information about the food pantry is made accessible online.