The proposed USA Track and Field project dominated the meeting’s agenda, as township engineer Mr. Russell Chapola presented two conceptual plans. Concept plan one includes all necessary track events but sacrifices substantial parking and grass areas, raising feasibility concerns. Concept plan two, while preserving parking and grass, eliminates a synthetic turf field and requires modifications to the JFK Center, such as locker room and weight training area renovations. This project is classified under Category 2 of the USA Track and Field designations, with its hefty price tag sparking debate among council members.

Council members discussed the potential loss of the baseball diamond and football field, both essential community resources. The high construction costs were juxtaposed against potential revenue from hosting events, with one council member urging exploration of alternative accrediting bodies to preserve the football field. The council emphasized the importance of balancing upgrades with existing community needs, underlining the necessity of retaining vital recreational facilities.

In other discussions, a high-end athletic facility was proposed, featuring walking tracks and various sports fields. Suggestions included reducing space for less popular field events, such as javelin and shot put, to increase parking and maintain resident amenities. There was a consensus on the need for a facility that aligns with community interests without sacrificing current offerings. Mr. Chapola was tasked with providing additional project updates via email.

The council addressed an ongoing lighting project, with the Deputy Manager reporting progress on converting streetlights to LED technology. Phase one saw 17 streets in Penny Packer Park upgraded, with the next phase awaiting utility company agreements for nine additional streets. Phase one completion on Veterans Parkway included 21 upgraded lights. Coordination with the county was noted as important for phase two, along with repairs needed in the municipal complex’s parking lot. The Department of Public Works (DPW) surveyed non-functional lights and installed motion-sensitive cameras in parks to deter vandalism.

Police department updates highlighted the presence of 71 sworn officers, with five attending the police academy. The installation of automatic license plate readers is underway, funded by a grant. The department is preparing for reaccreditation, boasting continuous accreditation for 12 years, a rare achievement in New Jersey. New police licensing legislation requires 20 officers to relicense by 2025, with initial licensing fees covered by the department.

The fire and EMS departments reported new volunteer recruits and completed CPR and AED certification renewals. However, issues with an aging fire engine were noted, highlighting future replacement needs. The inspections department announced all clerks’ certification and licensing. The DPW is installing water softeners for JFK boilers and reassessing roof repair quotes for expanded leak coverage.

The council reviewed several resolutions, including payment authorizations, legal appointments, and tax overpayment resolutions. Adjustmentsttention was given to Resolution 68, which was tabled, involving redemption in installments for a municipal lien. The tax collector’s annual report revealed a 96.99% collection rate for 2024, with discussions on unpaid taxes and municipal liens.

Community engagement was emphasized, particularly for upcoming events like a town hall meeting on the school board election and a March 11 referendum. The council announced a digitization project for township record-keeping, with an estimated cost of $177,900. A FEMA grant application aims to offset costs, particularly for Planning and Zoning Board records.

Public comments included concerns about unlicensed solicitors, with Councilman McIntosh seeking updates on approved permits. The council addressed the concentration of group homes. Residents raised issues about tree maintenance, with the DPW tasked with investigating utility easements for tree removal responsibilities.