One of the meeting’s most debated topics was the city’s decision to contract Animal Control Solutions, a company facing opposition from several residents, for animal services in 2025. The contract, valued at over $24,000, surpasses the $11,500 proposal from existing Animal Control Officer Carolyn Murphy, raising questions about fiscal responsibility and transparency. Concerns were further amplified by allegations against Murphy, which residents claimed had not been publicly addressed or communicated.

Lori Stago, representing Lambertville Animal Welfare, voiced apprehensions, noting the community’s lack of access to details regarding complaints against Murphy. Stago argued that the decision seemed hasty and ill-informed, highlighting the need for clarity and justification for opting for a more expensive service.

Kathy Williams, speaking on behalf of an absent community member, echoed these points, stressing the importance of public awareness and fairness in municipal decisions. Williams emphasized the necessity for a transparent review process and suggested postponing the decision to allow Murphy to address the allegations and defend her professional reputation.

Resident Judith Kissa also called for a delay in the final action on the resolution concerning animal control services, citing insufficient public information and the need for greater transparency. Kissa insisted that the council should ensure residents are fully informed before moving forward with such a decision.

The meeting further delved into personal experiences with the current animal control officer. Luc Mahalick recounted a distressing encounter involving aggressive dogs and expressed dissatisfaction with Murphy’s response. Mahalick described the incident as “horrendous,” citing delayed communication and lack of action, and advocated for a change in the ACO position. Despite his negative experience, Mahalick acknowledged that others might have had more positive interactions with Murphy.

Conversely, Chris Mhart defended Officer Murphy, arguing against the assumption that a new provider would offer superior service. Mhart contended that the council should await the outcome of pending litigation before making any decisions, emphasizing the principle of “innocent until proven guilty.”

The council’s deliberations on this topic underscored a broader call for accountability and transparency, with residents demanding a thorough assessment of the rationale behind selecting a higher-cost service. This debate reflects the ongoing tensions within the community regarding animal welfare and the management of local services.

In other matters, the council honored the Finkle family and their hardware store, a community fixture for over 107 years. The store’s history, from its origins as a horse and buggy operation to its evolution into a beloved local hardware store, was celebrated through a proclamation. Rachel Finkle expressed gratitude for the community’s support, recounting the store’s journey and its role in aiding contractors and residents alike. The council acknowledged the deep connections fostered by Finkle’s, with members and attendees sharing personal anecdotes and expressing a collective sense of loss over its impending closure.

The council also recognized Paul and Helen “Bambi” Co for their extensive contributions to Lambertville. Bambi, serving as the Director of Social Services since 1988, plans to retire in March 2025. The council declared January 19, 2025, as “Cool Day” in honor of their service. Paul Co, a long-time planning board member, emphasized the collaborative nature of the board and the friendships built through their work. The commendation highlighted Bambi’s compassionate response during crises and her dedication to fostering a supportive community environment.

Council members and residents reflected on the positive engagement from the public over the past year, focusing on achievements in affordable housing and stormwater management.

Environmental concerns also featured prominently, with discussions on “forever chemicals” in the water system urging the council to take proactive measures. A speaker recommended legal action against manufacturers contributing to contamination, drawing attention to efforts by other New Jersey towns to address similar issues.