The council’s approval of resolution 2025-186 marked a key development in ongoing infrastructure projects. The resolution authorized a change order with JA Alexander for road improvement projects on Union Grove, Bliss Kill Daily, and Long View Roads. The financial aspects were carefully reviewed, with a Department of Transportation grant of $286,530 and a budget allocation of $320,000 for the projects. JA Alexander’s contract amount was $309,000, with an additional change order of $8,500 for necessary materials, bringing the total to $317,000. This total remained under budget by $2,141, which the council approved after brief discussions.

Another major topic was the council’s progress on affordable housing obligations. An update was provided on the township’s fourth-round affordable housing requirements. The council had passed an amended housing element and fair share plan by the June 30, 2025, deadline. There were no developer objections, except a request for additional information from Fair Share Housing Center. The council successfully responded to these requests and anticipated filing a consent order with Judge Menon. This consent order necessitates the preparation of an amended housing element and fair share plan by March 15, 2026, along with an updated spending plan in line with new regulations. These efforts aim to provide the township with immunity from builder’s remedies, thereby maintaining control over zoning decisions. The council acknowledged the strategic planning and contributions of individuals such as the township planner and clerk, which helped avoid significant developer challenges.

Recreation programs and public works updates also featured prominently in the meeting. Upcoming recreation activities include basketball games starting January 9, 2026, and clinics for younger players that began on December 6, 2025. Other programs include a holiday workshop for air-dry clay, a winter dance session, and a Lego engineering program beginning in February. Registration for community garden plots is set to start in January. The council commended the Department of Public Works for their effective snow removal efforts during a recent storm, which left Bedminster roads clear while neighboring towns faced issues.

The farmers market season wrapped up successfully, with a holiday market featuring 32 or 33 vendors and attracting 656 visitors despite inclement weather. The council expressed gratitude to volunteers and the public works department for their contributions.

Additionally, the meeting included discussions on the implementation of artificial intelligence in the police department with the adoption of a technology called Blue Voice, aimed at improving compliance with legal directives. The council addressed issues with an aging phone system, which experienced disruptions due to electrical surges, though backup systems ensured continued communication.

In individual committee reports, two individuals, Patty Seagull and Susie Stevenson, were recognized for their service and upcoming retirements during a Board of Education meeting. Updates from the Land Use Board included a recap of administrative meetings and a successful farmers market season.

Other discussions involved a recent meeting with property owners and business operators in Pluckman, facilitated by local church representatives. The meeting featured a presentation on small business loans and grants from the New Jersey Economic Development Authority, which was well-received.

The meeting concluded with council members expressing holiday wishes and sentiments about the winter season. Caitlyn was acknowledged for passing her registered municipal clerk’s exam.