One of the most prominent topics was the administration’s proposal to transfer municipally-owned land on Route 202-206 to a private entity for the development of affordable housing units. The land was initially acquired using affordable housing trust funds. Council members deliberated on introducing an ordinance to facilitate this transfer, with the goal of partnering with an experienced entity to construct the required units. A resident named Joan Geyer highlighted the urgency of meeting the state’s January 31 deadline to submit calculations for the addition of 474 affordable housing units by 2035. Geyer questioned the town’s preparedness to challenge the state’s formula, which she believed might include roads improperly classified as developable land. A council member assured the public that the town’s housing consultant had been diligently working on this issue and that a plans would be presented by the end of the month.

Additionally, the council discussed the possibility of litigation against the state concerning affordable housing models. Concerns were raised about the financial implications of such legal actions for Bridgewater residents. Another resident, Carolyn Joya, sought clarification on the number of affordable housing units required, noting discrepancies between her understanding and the figures presented by the Mayor. The council explained that the state mandates a percentage of affordable units in new developments, which could result in constructing nearly 4,750 homes to meet the 475-unit requirement, depending on market-rate home development.

The council also revisited the funding level for emergency medical services, which has remained at $50,000 since 2011. A council member advocated for an increase in funding, emphasizing the importance of providing adequate resources for EMS responders. The current funding level resulted from a neighboring organization’s cessation of funding, leading to a 25% increase in the township’s financial responsibility for EMS services. The council acknowledged the work of the EMS advisory committee and suggested that the funding level warranted serious reconsideration.

Economic development emerged as another key issue, driven by recent business relocations affecting the local economy. During the public comment period, residents expressed concerns about the closure of J&J’s Ethicon division and Copi’s move to another state. They inquired about initiatives to attract and retain businesses. A council member reassured residents that the economic development team was working on strategies to bolster Bridgewater’s business environment.

John R. Colio, a public attendee, brought up several topics, including freedom of speech and environmental sustainability. He expressed concern over the recent reduction in public speaking time from three minutes to two minutes, fearing it could limit residents’ ability to express their opinions. The council clarified that the speaking time was previously increased and that the current system allows for flexibility based on the context of public comments. Colio also questioned the activity of the Environmental Commission and advocated for prioritizing sustainability initiatives.

The council addressed various administrative items, including the review of salaries for the Board of Fire Commissioners, which are set by individual fire districts and not funded by the township. There was a resolution for additional road salt funding for the upcoming winter, raising the total contract amount to $150,000 from the snow removal budget. The council also approved contracts for health insurance risk management services and property and casualty insurance risk management.

In the realm of community engagement, a resident expressed gratitude for the council’s decision to replace a stop sign and consider installing a street light at a problematic intersection. The resident encouraged the council to support recreational activities for children, such as skateboarding and biking, particularly in the area of the Country Club facility.