The most significant item on the council’s agenda was the approval of a developer agreement with TKG Pro1 LLC. The agreement detailed compliance with local ordinances, performance guarantees, and required inspections by the township engineer, zoning office, and building inspector. It also addressed maintenance responsibilities during construction, including stormwater management, insurance, and liabilities. The agreement stipulated that all utilities should be installed underground unless otherwise approved.

In addition to the developer agreement, the council addressed several ordinances. Ordinance 24-15, which amends and restates Chapter 195 concerning land use and development, was adopted following a review by the planning board. Ordinance 24-16, exempting nonprofits and small rental units from the fee for filing the annual registration of Certificate of Insurance, was also adopted. Other adopted ordinances included establishing salary ranges for non-union employees and supplementing traffic regulations.

Public safety was a major topic during the meeting. The Clark Police Department reported a total of 1,844 calls for service in November, with notable enforcement efforts resulting in 18 adult arrests, many related to shoplifting. The department’s report highlights ongoing initiatives to enhance community safety, particularly during the busy holiday season. The Clark Fire Department responded to 47 calls in November and emphasized fire safety during holiday cooking. The council urged residents to remain vigilant against fire hazards and potential crime, particularly with online deliveries during the shopping season.

The council meeting also covered community events and activities. The tree and menorah lighting event was a success, attracting over 1,500 residents, while the “Breakfast with Santa” saw 990 attendees. The council highlighted these events as opportunities for community engagement and festive celebration. Upcoming recreational activities, such as indoor soccer and family skate night, were also promoted to encourage resident participation.

The library director reported on November’s activities, noting 6,782 visitors and the acquisition of a color poster printer for public use. Upcoming library events include gingerbread house-making sessions, a family movie matinee, and a winter reading challenge starting in January, designed to engage families and children in educational and creative pursuits.

The council addressed financial matters, approving the payment of claims totaling $386,500.126 and authorizing the transfer of funds within the 2024 municipal budget. The council also awarded a contract for IT support services and a contract with Inservco Insurance Services for claims servicing. Additionally, the council supported a resolution amending the Fair Housing Act as proposed by the New Jersey Institute of Local Government Attorneys.

In a move to enhance transparency and community involvement, the council opened the meeting to public comments, but no residents came forward to speak. Despite this, the council emphasized the importance of community input and encouraged residents to engage with local governance.

The meeting concluded with reflections and holiday wishes from the mayor and council members. They expressed gratitude for the collaborative efforts of the council and various departments throughout the year, while also encouraging residents to contribute to ongoing food and toy drives. Public safety officials were thanked for their dedication, particularly during the holiday season, with acknowledgments of reduced calls to the police department—a potential record low in the last decade, as noted by a council member.

The business administrator provided updates on drone activity in the area, noting discussions with the FBI and homeland security. Plans for additional radar to monitor drone activity were mentioned, reflecting ongoing efforts to address resident concerns and ensure airspace safety.