Dominic, a lifelong resident known for his involvement with the Recreation Department and various community tasks, received commendation for his sense of hearing and staying informed on community matters. His acceptance speech reflected surprise and gratitude, thanking his family and friends for their support. Mayor Sal Bonaccorso, while presenting the award, took the opportunity to remind residents of the importance of adhering to town rules and regulations, particularly concerning debris and snow clearance, to maintain community safety and order.

Following the award presentation, the council moved on to reports from township officers. The mayor updated on the recent snow event and concluded the Christmas tree pickup. Councilwoman Angel Albanese shared details on library programs and services, including family Thursdays, a winter reading challenge for kids, and a graphic novel book club. She also promoted a fundraiser for the Friends of the Library. Councilman Jimmy Minniti emphasized the importance of calling the police in emergencies, cautioning against unattended cooking. Councilman Frank Mazzarella detailed the December activities of the Clark Police Department, including calls for service, arrests made, and incident responses.

Councilman Frank Mazzarella announced the extension of Christmas tree pickup and the start date for spring cleanup, while urging residents to park cars in driveways during snow events to facilitate road clearing. He also informed about an upcoming electric drop-off event. Councilman Bill Smith reported on the success of the annual ice skating event at Warren Anko Ice Skating Rink, commending the Recreation Department.

Brian Toal relayed information from Mark Hayden, president of the Environmental Commission, about the postponement of meetings due to the health of Mark’s father, Bernie Hayden, a former councilman. The council expressed their well wishes for Bernie’s recovery. The emergency squad and finance committee reports noted the squad’s 110 dispatches in December and the announcement of new officers for 2020.

The meeting proceeded with the discussion and adoption of several ordinances. These included setting minimum and maximum salaries, ratifying contracts for white-collar employees and the police, amending town code sections related to towing, vehicles and traffic, the police department, and recycling. Adjustments and refunds for the swim pool utility were authorized, and electronic tax and utility payments were enabled.

During the Citizens Hearing, the council approved various tax adjustments, refunds, and the acceptance of electronic tax and utility payments. Public comments highlighted ongoing services provided by the town, well wishes for Bernie Hayden’s recovery, and the adoption of ordinances related to town operations and regulations.

Traffic concerns were raised by resident Don Smith, who pointed out issues with the timing of the traffic light at ShopRite Drive and Rona Road, the positioning of the “Welcome to Clark” sign off the parkway, and the condition of the retention basin off the parkway. Mayor Bonaccorso acknowledged these issues, noting efforts to address them with ShopRite and the Turnpike Authority. Don also broached the topic of smoking in apartment buildings, prompting the Mayor to express hesitancy about local government overreach.

The council members also discussed the lack of space for left turns in certain areas. Local resident Dilia Collins reminded pet owners about upcoming mobile unit visits for pet wellness services. The topic of township signage was debated, considering the history, cost, and sponsorship challenges. The council shared condolences for community members who had passed away.