The Ridge High wrestling team was celebrated for their exemplary performance, becoming Somerset County Champions, North 2 group 4 sectional Champions, and 2024 group 4 state champions. The council passed a motion to present a resolution and proclamation to the team, with members being called up alongside their coaches to be acknowledged individually and photographed. The recognition of the team’s hard work and the lessons learned through the sport resonated with the council and community members.

Similarly, a presentation honoring the Girl Scouts was made, with council members sharing personal experiences and affirming the Scouts’ role in fostering character and leadership skills in young women.

During the public comments, Jen Styers, managing director of Community Hope, outlined the organization’s application for the CDBG to assist the Hope for Veterans program. The program aims to provide transitional housing and comprehensive services for homeless veterans, including counseling and employment training. The council voiced their support for the program, with one member drawing on their experience with the Wounded Warrior Project to highlight the importance of assisting veterans with their transition to civilian life.

The public comments session also brought up concerns about Senate Bill S 2930 and Assembly Bill A445, which a resident claimed would restrict public access to government records and impact the right to sue for access. The resident’s statement urged opposition to the bills, which they believed would undermine transparency in New Jersey.

Community events and initiatives were reported by staff and committee members, including an upcoming fundraiser for the municipal Alliance, suicide prevention programs, and participation in the mayor’s Wellness campaign. Furthermore, the council recognized the swearing-in of a new police officer and the Office of Emergency Management’s response to a recent storm and power outage.

The relocation of the lighting of the crescent for Ramadan to the Pavilion due to weather conditions was also discussed. The event was admired for its organization, inclusion, and the beauty of the new location. The council encouraged residents to visit the mosque and participate in the event.

Looking ahead, a Women’s History Month event featuring a panel of seven community-serving women was announced, with the council expressing enthusiasm for the celebration. Students’ submissions for the municipal leaders scholarship competition were acknowledged, with the council confident in the talent on display.

Public safety was on the agenda, with updates on the addition of a new police officer and a decrease in criminal activity in the area. The council addressed concerns about overdevelopment and affordable housing at the state level, and an ordinance amending police regulations to add a “resident protection” section was discussed, following recent house invasions.