A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to addressing concerns raised by resident Charles Orowitz regarding recent drone sightings. Orowitz described seeing a drone “the size of a car” over Deer Run, urging the council to take action. He referenced past interactions with state and federal representatives to highlight the severity of the situation. The Mayor responded that the investigation was under federal jurisdiction, assuring that there were no immediate public safety concerns.

The public safety director and the officer in charge of the situation informed attendees that they were collecting reports from residents and working with the Morris County prosecutor’s office. They noted plans for an upcoming meeting with state and federal officials to gain further guidance. The director emphasized the importance of documentation and encouraged residents to report any sightings through a structured process. While the council committed to transparency and keeping the community informed, residents, including Orowitz, reiterated the need for decisive action and clear communication.

Another important topic of the meeting was a presentation by Fred Hunt, chair of the Historic Preservation Advisory Committee (HPAC). Hunt introduced the 2024 historic site survey, which did not include any new sites or removals but did feature updates and corrections to existing site descriptions. Hunt highlighted the inclusion of information about the Old Hickory Tavern, an East Jersey Cottage from the early 1700s that was demolished. He clarified that while the survey lists historic sites, it does not impose restrictions on property owners who wish to modify or demolish their properties.

Following the presentation, the council unanimously passed a resolution to accept the survey. The council also recognized Meridi Crawford Collins for her previous volunteer work, appointing her to fill an unexpired term on the HPAC.

The meeting then shifted to committee reports, where updates on various local initiatives were provided. A report on the library announced it was now open seven days a week, with an expanded digital collection accessible through various apps. Upcoming events include a concert by resident Jang Son Lee and a special story time with Santa Claus. The library is also serving as a donation site for local charities.

The Parks and Recreation representative discussed the ongoing construction of a woodland-themed playground in Can Park and various holiday activities. These included yoga programs and the last opportunity for children to submit letters to Santa, with participation already noted from 60 children. The library also planned events such as a Taylor Swift-themed karaoke and various craft activities, encouraging community engagement and support for local charities through food and toy drives.

Community announcements included the fifth annual House Business Decorating Contest, with a driving list for families to view entries. Starbucks in Gillette offered free coffee to participants of the Holiday Lights tour, and Oak Flour Brewery provided $1 hot cocoa. Voting for favorite entries was encouraged, with the Long Hill Prize Patrol set to distribute awards with Santa on December 18, weather permitting.

Additionally, a photography contest titled “A Look to the Sky” was announced, with an entry deadline of January 15. The Parks and Recreation Department also announced first aid, CPR, and AED training classes in collaboration with the Long Hill First Aid Squad, emphasizing the importance of these skills. Acknowledgment was given to Charlotte Maguire for her efforts in cleaning the turf field, and a call was made for more volunteers for the Recreation Committee.

The Mayor announced a documentary screening on managing stress and anxiety via social media, scheduled for December 7, with a live panel discussion to follow. A pancake breakfast fundraiser hosted by Sterling Fire Company was also scheduled for January 12.

Concluding the meeting, the administrator’s report detailed November activities, including tree removal, holiday decorations, and leaf recycling efforts. The police department’s October report highlighted a $22,000 grant for new body-worn cameras and welcomed new recruits who would begin training at the Morris County Police Academy.