A significant concern raised during the meeting was the malfunctioning of the 666 emergency number, which, contrary to expectations, does not directly connect callers to Cinnaminson dispatch. Instead, calls to both the 666 number and 911 go to county call takers, who then relay the information to local dispatchers. This roundabout process has raised concerns about potential delays in response times. The Council discussed the issue, including the county’s refusal to allow direct contact with Cinnaminson dispatch, and considered steps to ensure that residents have a quick and efficient way to reach emergency services.

Another issue brought to the table was the handling of Emergency Medical Services (EMS) by the Cinnaminson Fire Department. A resident detailed an incident where they perceived the department refused to transport them to their desired hospital, sparking a conversation about the routes taken during emergencies. The Fire District was cited as having potentially more insight into the protocols and decisions regarding such service calls.

One of the most discussions centered on the severe flooding along Pensauken Creek and its devastating impact on local neighborhoods. A resident affected by the flooding inquired about support for homeowners and floated the idea of citizen-led initiatives to combat the flooding threat. Mayor Paul Conda and the Council acknowledged the gravity of the situation and the need for a comprehensive approach, including dredging and seeking assistance from state legislators.

The Council also heard a presentation from a resident who shared data showing the correlation between economic growth and societal issues such as violent crime, suicide rates, and drug overdoses. This presentation sparked a conversation about the limitations of economic growth as an indicator of societal well-being. The presenter, reflecting the concerns of other residents, criticized the leadership’s inaction on these social problems and suggested rallying the veteran community to tackle these national issues more aggressively.

In response to these concerns, the Council members stressed the importance of directing residents to existing services and acknowledged the limitations of their power at a local level. Nonetheless, they expressed their willingness to explore viable solutions and emphasized the need for community involvement and awareness.

The meeting also covered routine but essential municipal business. Ernest McGill provided the December 2023 police activity report, noting 2258 incidents responded to and 31 arrests made. Albert D. Segrest reminded residents about curbside Christmas tree collection and proper disposal of mattresses and recycling. Stephanie Kravil announced a free Pilates program and informed about permits for field and facility use.

The consent agenda was approved, including resolutions for the Union Landing Road reconstruction project, a contract with the Burlington County Mosquito Extermination Commission for 2024, and appointments to various boards. Contracts were awarded for affordable housing administrative agent services and for stormwater and sewer pipe repair.

The Council rounded out the meeting by expressing gratitude for the efforts of town departments during recent storms and setting the date for the next meeting. Public comment included Eric Hyman’s concerns about flood management and extreme weather, which Mayor Conda addressed by outlining the town’s efforts in road rebuilding, stormwater management, and flood mitigation strategies.