A prominent highlight of the meeting was the presentation on the branding initiative aimed at boosting tourism through the promotion of the five generals’ houses. This initiative involves installing flags or signs to publicize these historic sites. The council discussed plans for a collaborative meeting with neighboring municipalities, including Peepac, Ladstone, Far Hills, and potentially Burnersville, to enhance this effort in conjunction with the Somerset Hills 250th community garden project. The Spanner House’s opening during the Fall Fest, in alignment with the county’s “Journey Through the Past” event, was also announced, with county-led marketing efforts already underway. To ensure broader visibility, the council decided to send out a “rave” alert to further promote the event.

Community engagement through events was another focal point. Committeewoman Gina Lisa-Fernandez highlighted the upcoming community day scheduled for October 11th, which features 30 registered exhibitors and activities like a golf simulator, inflatable attractions, face painting, and a petting zoo. An adult beverage tent and performance by the band Hoy Poy are among the attractions, with improved parking arrangements following issues from the previous year. A call for volunteers was made to assist with the event. Furthermore, a trunk or treat event is set for October 25th at the farmers market, inviting families to decorate their vehicles for children in the community. Lisa-Fernandez also reported on the progressing community garden project and plans for a new dog park. She humorously noted that the dunk tank water for the event would be “extra cold.”

Infrastructure and public works were also addressed, with updates on the milling and paving of Tuttle and Riverwood Avenue. Scheduled to start on November 1, the project aims for completion before Thanksgiving, pending weather conditions. Notices about the project will be sent to residents by October 23. Ongoing maintenance efforts, such as ball field preparations and roadside mowing, were reported, and issues like dust suppression on gravel roads were highlighted due to dry weather. Street lighting issues on Hills Drive and Robertson Road were also discussed, with commitments from utility companies JCPNL and ENM to address broken electrical feeds.

Health and safety issues were brought to the fore as well. Updates from the board of health included the success of a flu shot clinic serving 62 individuals and ongoing lead screenings sponsored by the county. Concerns about lead pipe inspections were raised, particularly involving New Jersey American Water, as residents reported confusion over testing in areas developed post-1978. Additionally, a safety concern at the intersection of Route 206 and Old Dutch was discussed, with members urging action to address visibility issues caused by overgrown brush.

The council also acknowledged the busy October schedule, emphasizing Fall Fest as a community event celebrating its 25th year. Other community activities included a barbecue organized by the PBA for seniors at Dustin Park and a fraud scams presentation scheduled for November 12 at the library.