The meeting began with the council passing ordinances which involved amending the zoning regulations and the municipal code. A third ordinance, granting municipal consent for the operation of a cable television system, was also passed. These decisions were made without notable debates or disagreements, indicating the council’s unanimous approval.

The council then turned to recognize the efforts of the emergency services and public safety personnel, who had been instrumental in handling recent water emergencies in the town. Councilman Uhrin and Mayor Wahler conveyed well wishes for the upcoming holiday period and expressed gratitude for the personnel’s hard work. Uhrin also acknowledged Council President Frank G and reminded residents to be cautious while traveling during the holiday season.

The council also addressed the agenda for the first meeting of the New Year, January 2nd, 2024. This included various resolutions, such as the reorganization ordinance, mayor appointments, and the annual regular appointments. Additionally, resolutions authorizing the return of fees and bonds, as well as the appointments of council committees for Public Safety, Public Work, Finance, and Personnel were discussed.

The meeting then opened to the public for comments, where several residents expressed their concerns about the crisis in Gaza. Rahim Hashi, a senior at Piscataway High School, urged the council to pass a resolution calling for a humanitarian ceasefire in Gaza, emphasizing its impact on the local community and the need for a stance on peace and justice. Another resident, David, raised questions about specific agenda items, including the addition of new vehicles and the use of a tax assessor list. Mayor Wahler responded to David’s inquiries, providing explanations for each issue.

Further comments from the public echoed similar sentiments on the crisis in Gaza. Resident Khed Zed emphasized the importance of calling for a ceasefire, stating, “We are calling for a ceasefire because hundreds of thousands of lives are at risk.” He urged the council to forward a resolution to the U.S. Congressional delegations and the President of the United States.

Council President Frank G responded to the public’s concerns, stating, “We traditionally do not get involved in foreign policy, but we do not condone what’s happening here.” He acknowledged the residents’ concerns and expressed a willingness to consider the proposed resolution and to set up a meeting to discuss the matter further.