The first ordinance passed, 2024-3404, aims to amend the enforcement authority regarding fire lanes and zones. This ordinance is critical for ensuring the safety and accessibility of these areas for emergency vehicles. A public hearing is slated for February 20th, 2024, which will provide an opportunity for residents to voice their opinions or concerns regarding the changes.

The second ordinance, 2024-3405, involves the authorization and acceptance of a lot line adjustment. This ordinance facilitates the reconfiguration of property lines to accommodate changes in land use or ownership. Like the fire lane ordinance, a public hearing for this measure is scheduled for February 20th, 2024.

In addition to these ordinances, the Council recognized several proclamations including Catholic Schools Week, the Great Kindness Challenge, Black History Month, and Children’s Dental Health Month. The consent agenda, which covered resolutions 24-50 through 24-83, was also approved, furthering various administrative and operational functions of the local government.

Another point of interest involved the Township Committee acting as the Alcohol Beverage Control (ABC) issuing authority, which passed a resolution authorizing the renewal of a liquor license. The renewal of such licenses is a routine yet vital function of the Council.

Public commentary highlighted the issue of inadequate street lighting, a concern that was raised by several residents during the meeting. The lack of lighting was not only a matter of convenience but also of safety, with one resident requesting a comprehensive report on the energy plan and a specific evaluation regarding the need for more streetlights. Mayor Tony Perry addressed these concerns, confirming ongoing discussions with the utility company and promising to provide a timeline for the installation of additional lighting.

Further discussions on energy and lighting revealed that there was uncertainty surrounding the status of recommendations from a 2010 energy audit and proposal. A debate ensued regarding the ownership and maintenance of streetlights, with a public assertion that JCP&L owned the lights and thus was responsible for their upgrades. Another public member raised concerns about how redevelopment efforts might impact the fishing industry, emphasizing the interconnectedness of local development and traditional industries.

Additionally, a complaint about the uncomfortable seating in the meeting room was noted. The issue of street lighting was further underscored by another resident who argued for the necessity of additional lights in his neighborhood, underlining the widespread nature of this concern.

A community member also brought up operational concerns related to the street sweeper’s schedule in conjunction with garbage collection days. Moreover, a request was made for the placement of a sign for St. Mary’s parish.