The council unanimously approved an ordinance to increase the police department by two officers.

Public safety remained a dominant theme as a resident, Lesley Moran, urged the council to pass a resolution in support of gun violence prevention and to recognize June as Gun Violence Awareness Month. Highlighting concerning statistics on gun violence, the resident emphasized the need for evidence-based solutions to tackle this public health crisis. The council also acknowledged a recent arrest made by an officer in relation to a burglary, commending the police department’s diligence and commitment to community safety.

Another resident expressed gratitude for the council’s decision to declare May as Jewish Heritage Month. Local rabbis from different synagogues expressed their appreciation for this acknowledgment of the Jewish heritage and its contributions to the township.

The Deputy Mayor acknowledged the effective decision to purchase license plate readers, which recently aided the police department in making an arrest. Additionally, the council discussed their collaboration with the New Jersey Motion Picture and Television Commission to support film production within the community, highlighting the economic development benefits and job creation potential of this initiative. A representative from the commission provided statistics on the economic impact of filmmaking in New Jersey and the efforts to prepare the township for film production, including becoming “film ready” and the involvement of the Basking Ridge Business Alliance in supporting production.

The council also introduced ordinances related to shade tree protection and conservation easements. The Shade Tree Commission played a role in the drafting process, with guidance from various departments and adherence to the Department of Environmental Protection’s guidelines.

A notable funding request was discussed during the meeting, with the council announcing a $1.6 million submission to the House Appropriations Committee. The funding is intended to improve communication capabilities for the Township Police Department and partner emergency response agencies, potentially impacting the community’s safety infrastructure significantly.

Community initiatives were not overlooked, as staff reports updated residents on early voting, the opening of the Pleasant Valley pool, and the display of Hometown Hero Banners. Additionally, the library was commended for its “meet your neighbors” pilot program and the announcement of a theater play at the Farmstead.

The meeting also touched on the township’s ongoing projects and events, including the Washington House Charter Day, a fundraiser for exceptional children, and the Memorial Day Parade. Efforts to raise awareness of state grants for small businesses and programs focusing on seniors, such as a yoga event in the park and an educational program on affordable housing, were highlighted.

In addition to these discussions, the council addressed updates to an ordinance related to municipal police rotation towing service non-consensual towing regulations. The update was well-received by a resident who noted that it was an important change for small businesses in the town.