Drone activity in Bridgewater has garnered attention, with residents reporting sightings of “unusually large” drones since November. These sightings prompted a council member to emphasize the need for transparency from federal and state governments. The council discussed the limitations of local authority over drone operations, which are primarily regulated by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). The conversation highlighted the challenges faced by municipalities in addressing airspace issues and the potential safety risks posed by drones, particularly in light of an incident where an aeromedical helicopter’s landing was impeded by drone presence.

The Stola Quarry’s operations were another focal point of the meeting, with public concerns raised about blasting activities and their compliance with safety standards. The quarry, a longstanding part of the community since the 1890s, requires an annual mining license renewal. The council addressed concerns from residents about the impact of blasting, noting that these activities are regulated by the New Jersey Department of Labor. A representative from Stola Construction Materials explained that of the 57 blasts conducted this year, all but one complied with state standards. The anomaly was attributed to geological conditions, and a notice of violation had been issued.

The council expressed interest in the quarry’s reclamation plan, which involves stabilizing the site for future use, and acknowledged the challenges of predicting long-term land use changes. The discussion included the quarry’s new initiatives, such as using previously unusable shale material as clean fill and collaborating with the Department of Environmental Protection on flood control projects. The council considered amending the resolution related to the quarry’s operating license, ultimately deciding to approve it while removing specific stipulations, recognizing the quarry’s compliance with state regulations.

The meeting also delved into budgetary matters, highlighting an increase in state aid to the school district, which rose by over $1.6 million, or 12%, from 2023 to 2024. While this aid does not directly impact the township’s tax levy, it was a point of discussion in comparing budgets across the township, county, and school district. The council clarified the use of surplus funds, noting that surplus generation varies annually and decisions are made carefully to maintain financial stability.

Concerns about the budget also touched on the drawdown of surplus funds, with $6 million utilized in the 2024 budget, leading to an increase in the tax levy. Residents expressed a need for more transparency in how surplus funds are managed and replenished. The council responded by detailing the budget process and the impact of property assessments on taxation levels, highlighting a 7 to 9% increase in property values within Bridgewater.

In terms of financial management, the council authorized budget transfers for the fiscal year 2024, reallocating $91,461.00 and $276,912.00 within the sewer fund. These transfers were supported unanimously, with an emphasis on maintaining budgetary balance without incurring additional expenses.

The council addressed several resolutions, including an increase in the insurance premium for medical coverage and additional funding for public defender and prosecutor services, both of which were approved unanimously. The meeting also covered the allocation of funds for road improvements on Vassar Avenue and modifications to a liquor license due to legal challenges.

Public comments were a part of the meeting, with residents voicing concerns about road safety, infrastructure deterioration, and the need for better stormwater management. A representative from the Spring Run community urged the council to prioritize road improvements in the 2025 plan, emphasizing the dangers posed by current road conditions.

The meeting concluded with discussions on funding for the Municipal Alliance educational program, focusing on drug and alcohol education. Concerns were raised about the financial contributions from Raritan Township, which participates in the program but has not provided financial support. The council decided to support the resolution to continue the program, with intentions to address funding contributions in future budgets.