The primary issue dominating the public comments was the new dog park’s location in Lyman Park. Residents expressed frustration over not being notified about the park’s development and construction. One resident criticized the lack of communication from the township, stating, “I came home one day looking for work, and there’s this big fence taking the whole thing. I didn’t even know about it except for what you saw on Facebook.” Concerns were raised about the park’s proximity to a children’s swing set, posing potential safety risks. Another resident echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the importance of maintaining spaces for children, “They do not consider that they are taking that space from the children.”

The debate over the dog park also touched on broader issues of municipal responsiveness and community engagement. Residents questioned the decision-making process behind the park’s location and the lack of consultation with the community. A council member admitted to the communication breakdown, acknowledging, “There should have been communication,” and conceded that the oversight could not be justified. Additionally, concerns about the park’s cleanliness, particularly dog waste, were raised, with one resident questioning, “Who wants to go… in a park that smell?”

In response to these grievances, a council member explained that a review of available spaces had led to the current placement of the dog park. They suggested that residents consult the township’s website or contact the flood resilience officer for clarity on flood mapping and regulations, as the area was in a flood zone. The council member also reflected on the need for improved dialogue between the council and residents, implying that both sides must listen more actively.

Shifting focus from local parks to community events, the council heard from Randy Shamber, representing Propel for Quanic, who advocated for the upcoming Pride Festival. Shamber requested the issuance of a Pride Month proclamation and the display of pride flags at town hall, noting that this would mark the fifth consecutive year for such a proclamation. He highlighted the festival’s significance as a primary fundraiser for Propel, a nonprofit relying entirely on volunteers. Shamber also requested that the council absorb the $750 cost for police presence during the festival, citing increased threats against Pride events and the LGBTQ community. He shared the emotional impact of past proclamations, stating, “I had people come to me in tears of joy for your support for the community here in Puquanic.”

In the legislative portion of the meeting, the council introduced and unanimously approved ordinance number 2025-07. They also passed several resolutions, including R2025-101, which supports requesting community project funding from US Congressman Mikey Cheryl for upgrades to the Brooklyn sanitary sewer pump station, and R2025-104, which approved payments for itemized claims. The resolutions passed without significant objections from the council.

During committee updates, a council member reported on the activities of various committees, including the flood committee and the senior advisory committee. The flood committee had recently appointed Ken Hardacre as chair and Nick Deano as vice chair, with plans to return for further discussion. The senior advisory committee discussed the Senior Olympics, which had lowered the age for participation to 60. Additionally, the council member highlighted the grand reopening of Carney Bank after renovations and the upcoming grand opening of Cafe Classico in the Fireside Plaza.