Two ordinances were introduced and received unanimous support. Ordinance Number 2024-17 pertains to accepting a blanket sanitary sewer line easement and dedication of sewer improvements for the Village of Stony Run, located in Block 9, Lot 1. Ordinance Number 2024-18 involves the dedication of a sanitary sewer easement and existing improvements at the Route 73 Bowling Center, located in Block 195, Lot 2. Both ordinances will be published on October 1, 2024, with a public hearing scheduled for October 10, 2024.

During the meeting, the council also approved several resolutions. Resolution 2024-R159 amends a contract with Booth Mechanical Inc. for the 2021 valve replacement project. Resolution 2024-D160 awarded a contract to Bot Electric for the Collins Lane Park project at a total cost of $79,950. Additional resolutions included 2024-R161, which authorizes a collaboration between the Maple Shade Board of Education and the township to provide a school resource officer, and Resolution 2024-R162, establishing a shared services agreement for class three officer services.

The council then addressed the approval of an expenditures list, which totaled over $296,200 across various funds, including current and grant funds. This financial overview led to a motion for approval that garnered unanimous consent from the members present.

A resident inquired about the potential closure of a road for the upcoming Holiday Festival. The council responded that they were awaiting confirmation from Main Street Maple Shade regarding a $3,000 contribution toward the festival’s costs. They expressed intent to close the roadway if this funding was confirmed, noting that around $4,000 of the township’s financial support would be redirected to cover the festival’s expenses.

The township announced a new grant program aimed at enhancing the visibility of Main Street businesses. The council encouraged local businesses to apply for the grants, which could fund projects such as new signage or window displays to improve the aesthetic appeal of the area and foster community engagement.

During the meeting, the importance of recycling was highlighted. The council noted that Maple Shade is underperforming compared to county averages. Single-family homes in the town recycle approximately 10% less than the county average, while multifamily homes recycle about 50% less. The council emphasized adherence to recycling regulations, such as the prohibition of Styrofoam and yard waste in blue bins. They also discussed the promotion of tools like the Recycle Coach app and upcoming initiatives, including the collection of plastic latex balloons and Halloween costumes for recycling.

Public works efforts were also addressed, with announcements regarding the filling of potholes and small roadway repairs expected in the coming weeks. The Collins Lane lighting project was awarded a $125,000 grant aimed at enhancing lighting in Collins Lane Park. The Recreation director called for participants for the annual Halloween parade scheduled for October 26, encouraging community groups to join the festivities.

Financial health updates included a report from the tax collector, who noted a collection rate of 1.27% higher than the previous year, with receipts totaling $31,177,728. The Construction department reported a 2% increase in permit fee collection despite a 15% decline in inspections, urging residents to schedule inspections to avoid larger issues later. Emergency Medical Services reported responding to 2,272 calls through August 31. The fire department detailed 280 incidents, including five working fires and 21 public education events, confirming compliance with state safety standards.

The council provided updates on the wastewater treatment facility, discussing the replacement of three screw pumps and ongoing issues with bearing noise affecting residents. Improvements to the chlorine contact tank and ongoing problems with the Main Street force main were also addressed. Emergency measures regarding a well pumping motor jammed due to sand issues were discussed.

The Kings Highway water plant was brought up in the context of a Congressional Grant, with plans to bring additional wells into service while purchasing land to mitigate floodplain issues. The Main Street plant’s aging infrastructure was also a concern, particularly with new regulations regarding contaminants like 1,4-dioxane and PFOS.

In new business, the council highlighted an upcoming Small Business Bash scheduled for the Saturday after Thanksgiving, intended to encourage local shopping. The event is being organized through the Business Development Council, with efforts to engage local businesses in various promotional activities, including discounts for customers.

The council reviewed the storm drain mural application process, coordinated with Clean Communities. The first application for a mural has been submitted, with the council noting the importance of ensuring that the mural aligns with local ordinances and contains an educational component.