A point of discussion was the need for a stormwater management ordinance, driven by repeated flooding issues affecting residents, particularly in areas like the Colonial Woods neighborhood. A council member highlighted the persistent flooding problems linked to inadequate management practices, like improper grading from nearby property developments. The proposed ordinance seeks to address these issues by requiring maintenance of stormwater systems and imposing regulations on developments exceeding certain size thresholds to ensure they manage excess runoff effectively. The council noted the importance of balancing environmental protection with financial considerations for homeowners, emphasizing the need for clear guidelines to prevent misunderstandings and ensure compliance without imposing prohibitive costs on residents.

In addition to stormwater management, the meeting saw discussions about the downtown development Phase 2 project. Some residents, including Joker Kovak, voiced strong opposition, citing a lack of transparency in property appraisals and settlement decisions. Kovak pointed to a significant discrepancy between a past appraisal of a property on Lakeside Avenue and the settlement amount approved by the council, raising concerns about a perceived financial loss for the township. The council addressed these concerns, asserting that the settlement was a strategic decision to avoid potential litigation costs that could have amounted to $50 million. The council emphasized the need to move forward with development projects to mitigate financial burdens on taxpayers and revitalize the downtown area.

The meeting also covered financial matters, including the township’s budget and the allocation of opioid funds. The council reported an increase in the sewer commission’s budget by 3.56%, attributing it to negotiated employee pay raises. The administration defended the financial strategies employed, citing early budget completion as providing more options for the council moving forward.

In a related development, the council discussed a new cannabis business application. The application from a company named Chemistry LLC was scrutinized for missing critical documentation, leading to a decision to provide the applicants with one week to address deficiencies. The council stressed the necessity of maintaining fairness and transparency in the application process while ensuring that potential businesses meet all requirements.

There was also a discussion about enhancing communication and transparency with the community, particularly concerning the film industry’s activities in West Orange. The council considered creating a dedicated section on the township’s website to streamline information about film permits and address residents’ concerns about potential scams. This initiative aligns with West Orange’s goal to be recognized as a “film ready” and “film friendly” community.

The council acknowledged the West Orange Fire Department’s response to a recent fire incident, expressing gratitude for their efforts and adopting a turtle named “Pickles” as a mascot. Discussions included reminders about Halloween safety and the annual St. Cloud Halloween parade.