The meeting took a serious turn when the topic of pedestrian safety was raised, driven by community concerns over a recent car crash on Park Avenue. A local resident, backed by a petition with over 600 signatures, made an emotional appeal to the council, requesting a reduction in the speed limit, improved signage, automated speed monitoring, and a comprehensive study of traffic calming measures. The resident emphasized the urgency of the situation, citing the devastating impact of the accident and the need for prompt action to prevent future tragedies.

In response to the community’s concerns, the council had previously increased police presence, installed temporary signs, and initiated a traffic safety study. The Police Captain present at the meeting stressed the importance of conducting a certified study to determine appropriate solutions and highlighted the consideration of a safety campaign, potential changes to speed limits, and the adjustment of school zones.

Further addressing road safety, the captain confirmed the effectiveness of digital speed signs and mentioned the possibility of pursuing grant funds to acquire more. Additionally, a representative from Union County Connects introduced the Vision Zero program, a strategy aimed at eliminating traffic fatalities and serious injuries, and offered to share a draft proposal with the council.

The discussion on safety broadened to include the Transportation Advisory Board’s concerns regarding the absence of speed limit signs and the need to examine the town’s master plan for improvements in walkability and bikeability. The council’s dialogue with residents and board members illustrated a collaborative approach to tackling the issue of road safety in Berkeley Heights.

The meeting also brought to light concerns about a state bill related to low-income housing, which was met with frustration from the council due to its potential to impose challenging negotiation deadlines and affect the town’s vacant land formula. The bill, criticized for favoring developers and overlooking the impacts on local infrastructure and the environment, prompted discussions about its potential to increase litigation costs for townships. A former councilwoman called for the Governor to veto the bill, emphasizing the need to protect the town’s zoning authority and consider the broader implications of such legislation.

Economic development in the downtown area was another key topic, with the council noting an increase in businesses and restaurants.

As the meeting progressed, the council moved to enter an executive session to discuss matters of attorney-client privilege and the wastewater treatment plant, signaling the importance of these issues, though details remained confidential. The resolution to enter executive session was approved, and the meeting concluded shortly thereafter.