The conversation around rank choice voting drew attention during the meeting. A council member advocated for adopting rank choice voting, citing its potential to decrease negative campaigning and voter fatigue. This member referenced the success story of a recent campaign that engaged younger and disaffected voters through rank choice voting and proposed a resolution to support state bills S1622 and A4042. The resolution calls for state resources to raise public awareness about the voting method and urges legislative leaders to advance the bills. A resident, Rob Peterson, expressed strong opposition, labeling the practice as “rank choice roulette” and raising concerns about election integrity, complexity, and potential ballot exhaustion. Another resident, Alex Clark, defended the method, pointing to increased voter turnout in New York City’s mayoral primary and arguing that it encourages competition and coalition-building among candidates.

The meeting also spotlighted an ongoing debate over an ordinance regulating the feeding of feral cat colonies. Residents and council members raised concerns about the potential health risks and property damage associated with unregulated feeding. The proposed ordinance aims to recognize responsible caretakers of spayed or neutered cat colonies while identifying non-compliant locations. Discussions revealed a division among council members about the practicality and desirability of such regulations, prompting a motion to table the matter indefinitely for further community input. Some members emphasized the need for a structured approach to managing the colonies, while others warned of enforcement challenges and potential conflicts between neighbors.

Traffic safety concerns were also a focal point, particularly regarding the installation of a traffic light and pedestrian crossing. A member of a homeowners association underscored the safety risks posed by the high volume of school buses and vehicles, advocating for municipal support to expedite the project’s implementation. The council clarified that while a state traffic analysis found the proposal met necessary warrants, full approval was pending. Funding options were explored, including potential state inclusion in its capital plan, which could delay implementation for years. Alternatively, the township could fund the project immediately if included in its capital budget. The council also discussed the possibility of community contributions from the homeowners association to fund the traffic light.

Beyond these primary topics, the council addressed several other community issues. Residents proposed hosting World Cup events to foster community engagement, given the township’s diverse demographics. While council members expressed enthusiasm, logistical challenges, particularly staff capacity, were noted. The council suggested utilizing community spaces and forming a civilian committee to help organize the events without straining municipal resources.

In addition, the council discussed a summer health series aimed at promoting residents’ well-being, a celebration marking Franklin Township’s 250th anniversary with Revolutionary War-themed events, and opportunities for youth involvement in the Franklin Township Youth Council. They also addressed delays in issuing third-quarter tax bills due to pending certification of tax rates from the county.

The meeting also included updates on local business concerns, such as the proposed dispensary NJ Green Scene, which faced challenges due to a township decision to cap the number of dispensaries. The council’s stance on this issue highlighted the ongoing debate about local regulations and their impact on new businesses.