The proposed affordable housing development on Cornell Boulevard emerged as the central topic of the meeting, drawing attention from residents who expressed their disapproval during the public comment portion. Concerns were raised about the development’s proximity to major highways, traffic noise, and the suitability of the location for vulnerable populations such as seniors and disabled veterans. Residents like Carolyn Joya and Hans Nummire highlighted the dangers posed by nearby intersections and high-speed traffic, arguing that the site was unsuitable for residential purposes due to noise pollution and safety risks. Jocelyn Ehart questioned the lack of essential services such as grocery stores and parks nearby, asking, “Would any of you up there on that day want their 80-year-old mother… to live here?”

The legal aspects of the proposed development were also scrutinized, with attorney Amanda Cronmeer representing six residents living within 200 feet of the Cornell Boulevard property. She argued that Ordinance 25-24, concerning the AH3 zone, lacked adequate protections for adjacent properties and was inconsistent with the 2025 master plan re-examination report. Cronmeer emphasized the absence of setback requirements and landscaping guidelines, urging the council to reconsider the ordinance to ensure better planning and protection of community interests.

The council acknowledged the public’s concerns, noting that they were operating under state mandates requiring the township to deliver over 400 units of affordable housing. Despite this obligation, council members emphasized that the approval process would involve further scrutiny during the site plan review phase, where specific issues such as traffic and environmental impact would be addressed in more detail.

In addition to the Cornell Boulevard development, the meeting covered several other matters. Dr. Joseph Ferry, a commissioner on the Somerset Valley Sewage Authority, highlighted the importance of maintaining Bridgewater’s sewage system, the largest contributor to the authority, and urged continued support from the incoming council.

The council also discussed a bond ordinance aimed at upgrading the Middlebrook Sanitary Sewer Pumping Station, a 50-year-old facility. The $4.1 million initiative was deemed critical for maintaining utility functionality and employee safety, with council members highlighting the necessity of investing in infrastructure improvements to prevent costly failures.

Zoning ordinance amendments were another focal point, with residents like Kim Wartman and Larry Dwire expressing concerns over the proposed changes to the AH3 zone. They argued that the zoning modifications constituted “spot rezoning” and failed to consider the environmental and safety implications for existing residents. Wartman requested a cost analysis of the project, urging the council to thoroughly assess all implications before proceeding with approval.

Council discussions also touched on the need for increased legal services related to affordable housing litigation, specifically referencing ongoing matters on Cornell Boulevard. The council formalized a partnership with Robert Wood Johnson Health Network for ambulance services at no cost to the township, highlighting efforts to enhance local emergency response capabilities.

The meeting concluded with expressions of gratitude for outgoing council members, with both residents and council members acknowledging their contributions over the years. One council member reflected on their tenure and the challenges faced, including contentious meetings regarding deer population control, and expressed appreciation for the support from fellow members and the administration.