Central to the council’s agenda was the proposal of sewer fee increases to match the 25% hike approved by the regional sewage Authority. The fee structure under consideration included a 25% increase for the second half of 2024, a 5% increase for 2025, and a 1.5% increase annually starting in 2026, alongside a clause to pass through any additional increases from the regional sewage Authority. Council members deliberated over the timing of setting these rates and the operational challenges related to billing. They also weighed the merits of rounding the proposed fee to a whole number for convenience. The council ultimately agreed to address the 2024 and 2025 rate adjustments in one ordinance, with the possibility of revising rates for subsequent years separately.

Another topic was the privatization of the sewer system, with the council agreeing to hire an engineering firm to evaluate the system’s condition. This move comes as part of a broader conversation on managing treatment charge adjustments and their impact on residents. During the discussions, some members expressed reluctance to support the 1.5% sewer rate increase, advocating for a more comprehensive approach to rate adjustments.

The council also tackled amendments to the township code regarding the recoupment of costs from hazardous material incidents, specifically fuel spills. The debate centered on the ordinance’s scope and its potential financial impact on residents. Concerns were raised about expanding government bureaucracy and the financial burden on residents for minor incidents. Council members discussed the need for clear parameters and thresholds for spills to guide when charges should be applied, highlighting the difficulties in quantifying spill severity and determining appropriate charges.

Adjustmentsttention was given to the award of contracts for synthetic turf replacement at two locations: Turf 3 on Garson Road and the municipal complex turf at Comm Way. The Garson Road project, priced at $432,351.50, sparked a discussion on whether to separate the project into two installations due to possible price increases. The council ultimately approved the contract, with funding split between the Bridgewater Regional School District and the open space trust fund. Concerns about cost savings, timing, and field safety were considered before the vote.

The municipal complex turf replacement, with a cost of $41,600.78, raised questions about operating costs, environmental impacts, and safety concerns related to turf fields. Council members called for more detailed information and greater transparency in decision-making processes. Despite lacking comprehensive data, the council moved forward with approving the contract, though one member abstained from voting due to insufficient information.

In addition to these discussions, the council addressed several operational items, including emergency temporary appropriations, professional appraisal inspections, snow plowing, and road salt contracts for the upcoming season. There was a general consensus on these items, with members noting successful past relationships with contracted parties.

The council also approved a developers agreement with Bridgewater Accessory Associates LP for demolitions and cleanup at a specified location and resolved to cancel capital balances for completed projects to reallocate funds for the current year’s budget.