A significant portion of the public comment segment focused on allegations concerning the Howell Township Police Department, particularly the treatment of Kevin Cabell, a former officer. Brian Cabell, identifying himself as the business administrator with extensive emergency service experience, addressed the council, expressing deep concern for his son’s experiences within the police department. He stated, “the egregious practices of Howell Township Police Department as condoned by their leadership has led me to stand before you tonight.” He described how his son had devoted nine years to service and had aspired to a lifelong career in law enforcement, only to become the subject of harassment and ridicule from his colleagues.

Brian Cabell criticized the leadership, particularly Chief Staro, for failing to protect his son and for employing tactics to suppress criticism, referencing the DARVO principle—deny, attack, and reverse victim and offender roles—used by the chief. He urged the council to reflect on their mission and value statements, claiming that the department had failed to uphold these principles. He questioned the safety of residents, suggesting that they might also be targets of discrimination by officers who hold biases, particularly against the LGBTQ community.

Elizabeth Lightbody Simer, who introduced herself as Kevin Cabell’s aunt, echoed the concerns raised. She described her nephew as a kind and dedicated individual who had been subjected to bullying and threats from fellow officers, stating, “he was bullied, tortured, and threatened daily.” She emphasized the emotional toll this experience had on Kevin, noting that while he was dedicated to public service, he faced betrayal from those he trusted. She urged the council to take this opportunity to educate the police department on the importance of equality and respect for all individuals, regardless of their background.

Dr. Cabell also expressed frustration at the ongoing harassment that culminated in Kevin’s resignation from a career he had longed for. She addressed the council directly, urging them to consider the implications of their leadership on both the officers and the community, asking, “are the residents in the community being targeted because of their perceived sexual orientation?” She called for accountability from Chief Staro and his leadership team, emphasizing the need for the governing body to uphold the values they had pledged to serve.

The public comments culminated in a motion to close the public portion of the meeting. The council was advised to refrain from commenting on the issues raised due to ongoing litigation regarding the allegations made by Kevin Cabell. The request emphasized the council’s position of not making public statements on matters that are currently in the legal process.

In other matters, Matt Howard, the Director of Community Development, provided an update on a longstanding Mammoth County grant application for improvements at a local park. Initially intended for a concession stand and restroom building, the project had to pivot due to complications involving the sanitary force main. Consequently, the decision was made to abandon plans for bathrooms and instead focus on other park enhancements. Howard outlined a new approach that includes improvements such as paving walking trails, grading fields, installing storage buildings for league use, and adding shade structures, benches, and picnic tables. He also clarified that the concession stand was no longer feasible, citing the growing popularity of food trucks as a more practical solution.

Public comment was invited regarding the revisions to the grant application, and there were no citizens who chose to speak on the matter. The council would proceed with the necessary documentation for the grant revisions and anticipated construction to begin in the spring.

The council also addressed several municipal projects and events. Road repaving projects on Five Points Road and Newton’s Corner Road were scheduled for October, with work to be conducted overnight to minimize traffic disruption. Upcoming community events were highlighted, including Howell Day, the Fall Fest, and Optimus Club annual car show, along with an energy assistance day hosted by New Jersey Natural Gas aimed at helping residents with winter utility bills.

The council moved on to the business portion of the meeting, discussing and approving a series of resolutions. These included resolutions numbered 24-322 to 346b and the appointment of Wendy Gazer to the Howell Township Lake Restoration and Wildlife Management Committee. Additionally, resolutions related to the insertion of special items of revenue in the 2024 budget, such as grants for senior services, the national opioid settlement, and drunk driving enforcement funds, were addressed and approved individually.

During discussions on unfinished business, the council addressed ordinance 24-34, which proposed amendments to Chapter 57 of the Township Code regarding animals, specifically concerning fines for animals running at large. This ordinance was adopted with unanimous support following a public hearing. Ordinance 24-35, which sought to amend regulations concerning daycare operations, was also introduced. The discussion revealed concerns about unlicensed daycare operations and the need for enforcement mechanisms to ensure compliance with state licensing.

The council then introduced several additional ordinances aimed at regulating parking and prohibiting certain activities in public spaces. These included ordinances to prohibit specific vehicles from parking in public parking lots and on public streets, as well as an ordinance to prohibit camping and sleeping in public streets and on public property. Each of these ordinances received unanimous support from the council members.