A primary focus of the meeting was the ongoing debate over the vision for Vernon’s town center, reflecting resident concerns about development, especially in light of zoning regulations. A council member highlighted a petition and past decisions affecting current projects, emphasizing the need to clarify the town center’s vision and engage the public. A proposal was made to review zoning regulations, questioning whether retail and office space requirements on the first floors of town center developments had shifted over time. The deliberation included discussions on a core and outer section concept for the town center, with an urgent call for public engagement to address these concerns.

The council acknowledged past public meetings on related issues, such as the town’s sewage plants, and recognized the importance of keeping residents informed about the master plan approved in 2022. It was clarified that retail on the ground floor is not a zoning requirement, though the original plan from 1995 included various infrastructural elements. Concerns were raised that altering zoning regulations could lead to potential lawsuits from property owners. Members with deep familial ties to the area shared personal experiences with zoning changes and noted that successful town centers require specific population densities. There was a consensus on the need for public outreach.

Another topic was the council’s concern over financial oversight, particularly relating to municipal purchasing. Resolution 2612, which would allow purchases under New Jersey state contracts without council approval, sparked debate about transparency and accountability in spending taxpayer money. Some members raised concerns over the absence of a cap on purchases, advocating for council oversight on larger budget items. Ultimately, the resolution was tabled, mirroring concerns about Resolution 2613 related to purchasing authority and thresholds. The council’s decision to table these resolutions highlighted a division over balancing operational efficiency with financial oversight.

The swearing-in of new council members, including Patrick Rizzuto, marked the beginning of their terms. Congressman Josh Gottheimer administered oaths and shared his enthusiasm for Vernon’s history and community involvement. Gottheimer’s remarks praised the dedication of newly sworn-in members and emphasized working collaboratively for the community’s benefit. The council also acknowledged the service of local officials and first responders, appreciating their contributions to the township’s safety and well-being.

The appointment of Bill Higgins as the council president for 2026 was unanimously supported, with Sandy elected as vice president. The new council members expressed gratitude and outlined goals for their terms, with a focus on transparency, effective governance, and enhanced public access to information. One member proposed guidelines for social media conduct among council members and emphasized responsible monitoring of public funds.

Additional discussions included proposed changes to the council’s meeting schedule, the appointment of a liaison for development matters, and the selection of a new chief financial officer for the township. The council underscored the importance of transparency in these appointments, highlighting the need for qualified individuals familiar with the community’s financial needs.

Public comments provided a platform for residents to express their views on development and infrastructure. Concerns were raised about local apartment developments, the town center concept, and potential traffic issues on Route 515. Residents called for thorough traffic studies and greater public understanding of development impacts, emphasizing the importance of clear communication between the council and the community.