The Stavola Quarry operating license was a primary focus, with Vice President of Engineering Regulatory Compliance and Safety Thomas Branch detailing the company’s adherence to state regulations. Branch highlighted the importance of maintaining open communication with the community and addressed the council’s questions on compliance and the volume of calls received about blasting events. Councilman Pedroso inquired about the compliance of these activities, while Council Vice President Ring appreciated Branch’s commitment to dialogue with the community. The Quarry’s involvement in a potential flood control project with the DEP was also discussed, signaling its participation in utilizing the Quarry’s basins to mitigate flooding during high flow events of the Middle Brook.

Budget concerns took center stage as the council tackled a $390,000 shortfall in the police department’s payroll account. Councilman Gal questioned whether new hires or unexpected pay increases contributed to the deficit. The council emphasized the need for more accurate budgeting and suggested normalizing backend expenses throughout the year. Business Administrator Pandos underscored using the current issues as learning experiences to improve the 2024 budget season. The council also recognized the importance of an active budget committee for ongoing financial oversight.

The approval of development agreements was another topic, with the council authorizing a redevelopment agreement and a developer agreement between the Township and AR Bridgewater 2 LLC for a property on Route 202/206. Discussions focused on the implications of these agreements for public improvements and the role of the governing body in such developments. Councilman Pedro expressed dissent on matters related to the Bridgewater Commons Mall, stemming from concerns over alleged sexual harassment issues and the mall administration’s lack of cooperation, which sparked debate among council members.

In addition to these discussions, the council approved the appointment of Grace Juna as the municipal clerk for a three-year term starting January 1, 2024. Members praised Juna’s professionalism and efficiency, with unanimous approval from the council. The council also addressed the correction of budget appropriations, with recognition of the new CFO’s efforts in identifying unspent funds from completed projects, which could serve as unanticipated revenue for future budgets.

Infrastructure considerations were highlighted by the discussion about the hard armoring on the embankment adjacent to Route 22 and the delays in obtaining permissions from the owner of the car dealership in the area. With hurricane season approaching, the council expressed concerns and committed to seeking an update on the matter.

During the public input segment, George Baitman thanked the council, planning board, zoning board, and township employees for their dedication, while Dean N. brought attention to speeding and stop sign violations, urging immediate action after a severe car accident in the area.

Other resolutions addressed included the waiver of fire permit fees for the Somerville Elks Lodge Christmas tree sale and the reimbursement of building construction permit fees for Cynthia Whitcell, the surviving spouse of a volunteer emergency responder. The council debated the transparency and fairness of waiving fees for surviving spouses, voting to approve the reimbursement with an amendment to the item’s title for accuracy.

Finally, the council’s initiation of membership with the New Jersey Intergovernmental Insurance Fund was debated. Comparisons with the Somerset County Joint Insurance Fund centered on cost, coverage, and financial stability, with the council voting to proceed with the New Jersey Intergovernmental Insurance Fund membership.