In a display of community spirit and collaboration, the council meeting on April 15, 2024, opened with a special presentation honoring the police officers from various departments. The child had gone missing during a community Easter egg hunt, and thanks to the swift and coordinated efforts of the officers and the K9 unit, a potentially tragic situation was averted. The mayor and committee members extended their gratitude to the officers for their service.

Moving from the celebration of heroism to the business of governance, the council proceeded to deliberate on the fiscal matters of the township. The 2024 Municipal budget public hearing was a focal point of the meeting, with the proposed budget emphasizing priorities such as public works, parks, and the police department, alongside debt payment and capital projects. The budget featured a modest 2% tax increase, which received commendation from both committee members and the public for its transparency and clear allocation of funds. Following the public hearing, the budget was adopted without objections.

The council also conducted public hearings for a series of ordinances. Ordinances 2024-25, 2024-26, and 2024-27, concerning a plan for several lots on Creek Road, amendments to rental property regulations, and amendments to a bond ordinance for construction improvements, respectively, were all opened for public comment. Each hearing was concluded with no comments from the public, and the ordinances were subsequently approved. The joint land use board secretary confirmed that the ordinance regarding Creek Road was consistent with the master plan.

In addition to budget and ordinance matters, the Township administrator provided updates on a variety of subjects. This included a request for access to water areas from the Department of Environmental Protection, confirmations from budget requests, and a notice about traffic counts. There were also discussions about ongoing IT projects and a tree giveaway program by The Bridge Commission. The Chief of Police presented monthly statistics and highlighted the community’s role in the rescue of the missing child during the Easter event. The Chief also noted the life-saving actions of two officers and the need for additional training for officers due to the state police no longer handling investigations for major traffic accidents.

The council addressed the Community Development Block Grant program, with the budget submitted to HUD but funding allocation uncertain. The Board of Education’s strategic planning and the replacement of a school roof were discussed, as well as the township’s recognition in a safety incentive program and the frustrations with a flood ordinance that needed adoption.

Another topic was the county’s decision to increase open space funding, which aims to purchase and preserve farmland without resorting to bonding. The council expressed hope for the reinstatement of municipal grants from the county’s open space account. Updates on community events, including recreational activities and community attendance at various meetings such as the Board of Education and Fire Company meetings, were also shared.