A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to public comments about warehouse developments and their impact on local traffic. Residents expressed frustration over the lack of clarity regarding traffic regulations and enforcement, particularly on Schoolhouse Road, which has seen an increase in truck traffic. One resident, Michael Bryan, voiced his concerns about the influx of tandem dump trucks and the inconsistencies in traffic signage. He expressed dissatisfaction with the lack of response from the traffic division after leaving multiple messages and highlighted confusion about the status of planned traffic cameras, which a division representative reportedly had no knowledge of.

Other residents echoed these concerns, questioning the township’s strategy in managing the traffic impact of new warehouse developments. Norman Roberts cited a town-commissioned traffic study, which identified failing intersections that could not handle existing and future traffic levels. He criticized the disconnect between the study’s findings and the new warehouse ordinance, urging the council to provide clear answers before proceeding with votes on the ordinance. Roberts underscored the need for the ordinance to address the issues highlighted by the study, particularly regarding warehouses built “on spec,” without confirmed tenants.

Residents also called for more transparency and community engagement in the decision-making process. They expressed a desire for a coherent strategy to manage the implications of ongoing and anticipated warehouse expansions on traffic and community wellbeing. Concerns about the removal of zoning board requirements for warehouse developments were also raised, with residents emphasizing the need for community awareness of significant regulatory changes.

Additionally, the council meeting addressed environmental initiatives, with updates from the Environmental Commission and the Shade Tree Commission. The commissions reported on their ongoing efforts to preserve Franklin Township’s natural resources and enhance green spaces. The Shade Tree Commission detailed its collaboration with municipal departments and the Board of Education to plant trees across the township, contributing to environmental sustainability and community beautification efforts. Notably, the commission highlighted the Hutcherson Memorial Forest’s recognition as one of the oldest forests in the United States.

The Environmental Commission presented its work on preserving natural resources, conducting site plan reviews, and advocating for environmental initiatives. The commission’s achievements included an annual stream cleanup, completion of the Franklin Township Community Energy Plan, and a micromobility study. Upcoming initiatives include a food composting pilot program and goals for achieving Sustainable Jersey silver certification.

Public comments also addressed the licensing of a new cannabis dispensary. Concerns were raised regarding the behavior of one of the dispensary’s owners, who allegedly used a racial slur on social media. The speaker questioned the council members’ awareness of the owner’s background and connections, emphasizing that granting the dispensary a license in a diverse area like Franklin Boulevard was inappropriate. The comments highlighted broader concerns about equity in the cannabis business landscape, with wealthy individuals reportedly monopolizing opportunities that could have been granted to local applicants.

The meeting included discussions on property tax assessments, with questions about whether recent increases were justified. A resident called for clearer communication from the council regarding the basis for tax assessments, emphasizing the need for responsible budgeting to maintain affordability in Franklin. The council explained that the assessment process involves a five-year cycle, with comparable sales within neighborhoods evaluated to determine annual values. Residents have the right to appeal assessments by providing evidence of comparable sales.

Updates on various township projects, including the Easton Avenue corridor plan and Hamilton Street safety improvements, encouraged resident participation. The meeting concluded with the adoption of several ordinances related to municipal budget appropriation limits, massage therapy regulations, and open space preservation.