The centerpiece of the meeting was the presentation by Amelia Brown from Ever Solar, who introduced the community solar program to the residents of Union Township. This initiative, made permanent in 2023, is designed to extend solar savings to 75,000 households across New Jersey, with Union Avenue’s project slated to serve around 500 local residents. Brown emphasized the program’s consumer-friendly aspects, noting the absence of startup or cancellation fees and highlighting its accessibility for both renters and homeowners without requiring any installations on individual homes.

This community solar project involves placing solar panels on warehouse rooftops, with the generated energy feeding into the local power grid. Residents participating in the program could see annual savings of approximately $600 on their utility bills, with a straightforward enrollment process that includes a $50 sign-up incentive.

In light of increasing concerns over scams in energy savings programs, a committee member took the opportunity to assure the public of the legitimacy of this community solar initiative. This reassurance was timely, considering the rising apprehensions surrounding similar programs in the market.

Following the solar presentation, the committee tackled several pressing ordinances and resolutions. Among the decisions was the amendment of the municipal code concerning sewer system user charges. In addition, an ordinance was introduced to facilitate a handicapped parking space on Kenneth Avenue.

The committee also addressed ordinances related to local registration fees, parking fees, and municipal court violations, all of which were passed without dissent. A draft ordinance concerning filming regulations, designed to align local statutes with state requirements, was approved for future consideration.

Resolutions of note included the approval of custom artwork for the new main library and a change order for a road resurfacing project. Furthermore, the committee greenlit an agreement with the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission for online access to records and approved several financial resolutions related to road construction payments.

Community engagement was further highlighted with the approval of various event permits. Requests included a vacation Bible school banner from Connecticut Farms Church and a youth basketball clinic by the First Baptist Church of Fox Hall, both of which were unanimously approved pending requisite departmental approvals.

Operational updates were provided by the municipal court, fire department, police department, and other township divisions. Notably, the police department’s report covered significant enforcement activities, including truck enforcement and traffic violations, alongside a notable arrest involving a controlled substance and a handgun.

The fire department’s report detailed its response to 184 service calls, including significant fire incidents and a brush fire requiring external assistance. Community outreach efforts continued with a planned presentation at Union High School focusing on fire safety.

Public comments brought attention to budgetary concerns, with residents questioning the expenditure on custom artwork and emergency air conditioning for the municipal building. Clarifications were sought on the Title VI plan for New Jersey Transit and the potential for tax overpayments.