The public comment section of the meeting brought to light the residents’ unease regarding traffic safety, with a particular focus on the roads of Station Road and Anel Davidson Road. Residents reported near-miss head-on collisions and the ineffectiveness of current traffic calming measures, such as speed signs and police speed traps. One suggested solution was the installation of a forced turn island to mitigate the issue of cut-through traffic and slow down the speed of vehicles in residential areas. The committee recognized the gravity of the concerns raised and noted the challenges in addressing these issues, particularly due to county jurisdiction, which hampers the township’s ability to implement certain traffic solutions.

Further discussions on community safety centered on a recent life-saving incident reported by Chief Owens, where local officers rapidly responded to a 68-year-old male suffering a heart attack while playing soccer. The officers’ timely use of a defibrillator and oxygen was credited with saving the man’s life.

The committee also addressed the issue of scams targeting the elderly within the township. A Facebook post by detectives served as a cautionary tale, warning residents about the scam after one local fell victim to a $10,000 deception. The committee stressed the importance of staying informed through detective briefings and urged residents to reach out to the police department with any concerns about potential scams.

On the subject of police department activities, the committee was briefed on the increase in traffic stops, attributed by the police chief to the proactive nature of the new, younger officers on the force. The police also briefed the committee on ongoing investigations into break-ins and the successful conclusion of the lead program. Additionally, the committee learned about upcoming community events including the Police Special Olympics torch run.

In legislative matters, the committee moved forward with an ordinance for its first hearing, number 05-24-13, which involves amending and revising the Land Development code.

The meeting also touched on various administrative updates, including the recent Parks and Rec Commission reorganization, Board of Education updates, and mayoral appointments to the Municipal Alliance and the Environmental Commission. Additionally, the committee acknowledged the unfortunate cancellation of the Memorial Day Parade due to severe weather, but expressed their gratitude to the Lions Club and participants for their efforts.

While discussing the upcoming primary elections, the committee mentioned the early voting locations available in Middlesex County, emphasizing the importance of civic engagement and the accessibility of voting for all township residents.