A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to scrutinizing the township’s legal expenses, which have substantially increased over the past year. A resident, Harry Kennedy, raised critical questions regarding two withdrawn resolutions that highlighted the doubling of labor attorney fees from $10,000 to $20,000. Kennedy sought clarification on the approval process for the attorney’s involvement in depositions and a pending court case, questioning who had authorized these expenditures. He expressed concern about potential duplicative legal representation, given the township’s existing attorney arrangements through the Joint Insurance Fund (JIF). Kennedy underscored the issue by pointing out the stark difference between last year’s legal fees of approximately $155,000 and the current year’s projected $298,000. He questioned the rationale for needing multiple attorneys, especially when some council members had not requested additional representation.

The discussion on legal fees highlighted broader concerns about fiscal responsibility within the township. Residents emphasized the importance of transparent decision-making processes to ensure accountability and efficient use of taxpayer money.

Environmental concerns also took center stage, with residents voicing apprehensions about a site previously involved in electroplating and powder coating operations. The facility, which transitioned from electroplating to powder coating until its closure in 2025, had been undergoing testing and cleanup efforts due to contamination. Elevated levels of contaminants, including chromium and PCBs, were found in a 2019 sampling, raising worries about the potential for groundwater contamination affecting local water sources like Timothy Lake, a site for recreational activities.

Residents expressed frustration over the lack of accessible information regarding the site’s environmental status. One individual articulated concerns about the implications of these contaminants for residents relying on well water, particularly with many children playing in nearby school fields. The speaker urged the community to remain vigilant to prevent a potential disaster affecting health and safety. In response, an official noted that the EPA had been monitoring air quality and contamination levels at the site.

The discussion also touched on the response efforts, including medical testing for first responders who had been at the site during the incident. Officials confirmed that no first responders had tested positive for harmful metals, although concerns about potential contamination remained.

Another resident, Cheryl Fox, brought up concerns regarding water testing, referencing past testing conducted by Gloucester County. She revealed that she had recently inquired about the possibility of further water testing by the county, only to find that the county would not be conducting new tests. This prompted her to consider private testing at a significant cost. Fox asked for recommendations on ensuring the safety of local water supplies, emphasizing the importance of community health during this uncertain time. Officials reassured residents that they were monitoring the situation closely and encouraged community members to reach out with questions and concerns.

Despite the challenges, the council expressed gratitude towards the local fire and police departments for their efforts in managing the situation. Officials took a moment to acknowledge the community’s resilience and the importance of coming together during challenging times. They encouraged community engagement and expressed a commitment to providing updates and addressing issues as they arose.

As the meeting drew to a close, officials shifted focus to lighter topics, including an upcoming community day event scheduled for September 20th. The event aims to support local charities, fostering community spirit and engagement. A motion to adjourn was made.