One notable issues was the discussion of tax appeals totaling over a million dollars each. A resident, Pat Dnan, raised concerns over the financial implications of resolutions R24 173, 174, 175, and 176. These resolutions, pertaining to tax appeals, could potentially impact the township’s financial stability. Dnan questioned the council on measures to prevent frequent appeals by commercial entities, especially considering the significant portion of the tax bill allocated to the Board of Education. The potential total impact was highlighted as reaching $4 million, prompting discussions on the need for adjustments in tax assessments.

Township Attorney Miss Yer provided clarity on the origins of these appeals, explaining that they stemmed from the Tax Court rather than the Morris County Board of Taxation. The attorney emphasized that commercial properties are assessed differently than residential ones, with a focus on income generated by businesses. The economic effects of the COVID-19 pandemic were noted as having impacted commercial property assessments. Experts reviewed the cases, with a commercial appraiser recommending reductions based on decreased income. Miss P elaborated that the settlement payouts, totaling just over $328,000, would be covered by existing reserves, therefore not affecting taxpayers directly.

Adding to the financial discussion, another resident, Tucker Kelly, echoed concerns about the tax appeals’ impact and questioned the compensation of council members, noting their funding via taxpayer dollars. Kelly referenced a historical tax appeal involving the mall. He urged for transparency regarding the future financial impacts and strategies to reclaim assessment values.

In parallel, community concerns were voiced by John Oaks, president of the Rockaway Township Soccer Association. Oaks expressed fears over the potential loss of the program’s main soccer field, set to be sold in December. Highlighting the importance of the soccer program, which enrolls 609 children across various divisions, Oaks stressed the need for affordable sports options in the community. He urged the council to consider alternative locations for the soccer activities, emphasizing the dynamic between club and township programs and the necessity for a dedicated soccer hub.

Further community issues were raised by Ru Patel, who addressed the council regarding the heavy traffic from dump trucks on Mount Hope Road. Patel described the situation as both a public safety hazard and a quality of life issue, citing noise and road debris as major concerns. The council had previously taken steps by engaging with Tilcon and state police to address these traffic concerns, although specific details of their inspections were not discussed during the meeting.

The council also approved the appointment of Douglas Sclar as an alternate public defender, meeting a request by Judge Smith and the court administrator. This unanimous decision was made without opposition or questions regarding Sclar’s qualifications, which were reviewed prior to the meeting.

Other notable discussions included the council’s decision not to accept a private driveway on Polara Drive as a town street, following a report indicating it served only three houses and was in poor condition. The township administration conveyed this decision to the property owners’ attorney.

Mayor Joseph Jackson announced the opening of the Dermatology Institute and Laser Center on Green Pond Road, with a ribbon-cutting ceremony scheduled for October 10. Additionally, the mayor referenced a recent community event at the Shabad House, emphasizing the positive impact of gatherings that promote unity and light.

The council meeting also covered routine updates such as upcoming community events, including a fall cleanup, mental health workshops, and flu vaccination campaigns.