A major portion of the council meeting was dedicated to addressing the persistent sewer system problems in the town. The council elaborated on the recent smoke testing in various parts of Verona, which exposed potential interconnections and illicit connections affecting township inlets or laterals. These tests revealed problems such as incorrect connections between inlets and the sanitary system, necessitating further investigations through dye testing and video recording to pinpoint the issues accurately. The council discussed the necessity of homeowners maintaining their sewer cleanout caps, which separate the sanitary system from the street. Many older homes lack these external cleanouts, complicating homeowners’ ability to manage sewer issues effectively. A draft letter is set to be circulated to residents, notifying them of any identified issues and outlining necessary repairs. The communication will emphasize the importance of maintaining cleanout caps to prevent costly sewer line problems.

The council plans to address these issues urgently, as the area has already required emergency repairs. The project is poised to start soon, with further video testing necessary to complete the assessment of the pipes’ condition. The repairs are critical for both public and private properties.

The council also tackled the Peck and Creek repairs, focusing on bank stabilization following considerable damage from a hurricane. Plans to stabilize approximately 400 linear feet of the bank are almost complete, with permits obtained and bidding for construction expected to start soon. The project has an estimated cost of $350,000 and involves removing existing structures along the banks and grading slopes to prevent future erosion. The council assured that hydraulic studies had been conducted to prevent downstream flooding and that the enhancements aim to smooth channel flow to mitigate soil erosion during extreme weather events.

Discussion then shifted to an impending special meeting to discuss plans for a new emergency services building, scheduled for August 13. Concerns were raised about the timing of the meeting during the summer months, potentially limiting resident participation. There were calls for increased public notification to ensure that the community could contribute to the discussion on this significant project. The proposed $40 million building’s financial implications were considered substantial for the community, emphasizing the need for clear communication and resident engagement. The administration clarified that the August 13 meeting is planned as a work session without formal action but will allow public input. There was a suggestion to extend the public comment period into mid-September to accommodate more resident feedback.

In other business, the council discussed the newly acquired Lakeside Avenue parking lot, which will feature 83 parking spaces, including electric vehicle charging stations and handicap spaces. Construction is scheduled to commence in the coming weeks, supported by a $1 million grant from the New Jersey Economic Development Board. The lot’s proximity to transit and the town center is expected to benefit community access.

The meeting also covered updates on various infrastructure projects, including the primary clarifier pump station project set to accelerate in September, progress on the UV disinfection system, and microscreen projects. A recommendation for the Fairview Avenue drinking well project is anticipated soon, with actions expected in upcoming council meetings. Additionally, the council chambers technology upgrade project is planned, with design work for community center and town hall roofing projects underway.

Discussions also touched on the need for a facilities audit to include the community pool, emphasizing the necessity of assessing all township structures. Concerns were voiced about recent paving work on Route 23, which had not met quality expectations.

Finally, the council approved Ordinance 202510A, focused on capital improvements, with a vote of 4 to 0. The ordinance appropriates over $10 million for infrastructure projects, highlighting community priorities such as the Everett Field project, which has seen active advocacy and fundraising efforts from the Verona Baseball Softball League.