The meeting’s most discussion centered around affordable housing, with the township council reviewing a critical resolution aimed at contesting the state’s fair share estimates for affordable housing units. The township has proposed a modified estimate that reflects a ten percent reduction from the state’s initial figures, based on analysis and adherence to state-defined metrics. This decision aligns with the township’s strategic approach to affordable housing, as the council prepares to meet the state-imposed deadline of January 31 for municipalities to accept or challenge their fair share estimates. This resolution is the preliminary step in a broader, multi-faceted process intended to refine the township’s housing plan by June 30.

The township’s affordable housing obligations were further detailed by a presenter, who explained the state’s calculations under the Mount Laurel Doctrine, highlighting a present need for 30 units and a prospective need for 146 units. Adjustments made by planners to account for developable land resulted in a revised prospective need of 141 units. The council expressed appreciation for the thorough analysis, underscoring that this obligation marks the beginning of a more extensive dialogue about affordable housing in the community. The resolution to adopt these obligations was passed unanimously.

In addition to affordable housing, the meeting saw two new appointments to the township planning board: Emily Chang and Dan Miller, appointed as alternates one and two, respectively. This was an acknowledgment of the township’s robust volunteerism, which the mayor noted as a vital component of the community’s vibrancy and governance effectiveness.

The council also tackled updates to several ordinances. Among these was Ordinance 202-02, which involves leasing municipal property for cell tower operation. The new operator will manage subleases with carriers, presenting a revenue opportunity for the township, with the winning bid surpassing the reserve by about $20,000. This ordinance passed unanimously, with a public hearing scheduled for February 25th. Another ordinance, 202-03, set salary ranges for township employees not covered by collective bargaining agreements, aligning with market conditions. Similarly, Ordinance 202-04 updated the township’s by-laws, proposing to combine the Recreation Standing Committee with the Administration and Personnel Committee. All these ordinances were approved with unanimous support, each set for a public hearing on February 25th.

The council also introduced Ordinance 202-05, amending the police licensing code to comply with new state requirements, and Ordinance 202-06, updating private alarm systems to reflect modern practices. Each of these ordinances received unanimous approval as well.

Community initiatives discussed included the upcoming phase two of the Shunpike restoration project, encouraging resident participation in the spring. The library announced the opening of its back hallway for a spring book sale and donation drives for those affected by wildfires in Los Angeles and local homeless individuals. Additionally, the library launched a new children’s program called sensory playtime, aimed at engaging all five senses for enhanced learning, and offered residents free access to Consumer Reports.

Public safety updates highlighted the Green Village Fire Department’s installation dinner, where new officers were sworn in, and Peter Faucet was honored as the fireman of the year. The emergency squad’s annual fund drive was noted, along with a request for used chainsaws to aid in emergency response efforts. The Pic Street Bridge’s closure was addressed, with a temporary traffic light installed to manage increased traffic.

Finally, the council recognized January as a month of remembrance for Martin Luther King Jr., with a food drive and prayer service held at the Chatham United Methodist Church. The mayor participated in a joint proclamation with the borough, celebrating Dr. King’s legacy and noting the community’s active involvement in the event.