The council was presented with a detailed update on the Burlington County Joint Insurance Fund by Steve Walsh, the Risk Management Consultant, and Paul Myola, the executive director of the fund. Myola outlined the challenges faced by the insurance market, such as reinsurance cost increases, medical cost inflation, workers’ compensation, and statutory regulatory changes. He highlighted the financial stability of the organization and the efficient operation, which includes the release of dividends to members. Myola also compared their fund with other joint insurance funds, shedding light on the value proposition and the benefits of various programs such as safety and risk management training, environmental risk management, cyber risk management, and claims management. Emphasis was placed on training and safety measures that reduce lost time accidents, with the utilization of transitional duty programs to facilitate employees’ return to work.

The discussion on insurance also covered the town’s approach to managing occupational injury treatment, with a focus on selecting the best possible specialists to save on long-term costs. The effectiveness of the town’s defense panel and the wellness program in reducing workers’ compensation costs were also highlighted. Statistics were presented to show the difference in costs and time between employees with comorbidities and those without.

A representative from the transportation group Aton proposed a township-wide traffic study to address the incremental increases in traffic volumes due to rapid development in the area. The study would collect data on traffic crashes, analyze traffic signal plans, and observe traffic counts at intersections. The aim is to develop a meaningful circulation element for the town’s master plan and to demonstrate to the county the need for assistance in resolving traffic issues. Council members discussed the enforcement of proposed remedies, especially on county roads, the need for collaboration with the county, and the potential for grant opportunities. The inclusion of police reports in the study was seen as essential to providing a complete picture of the traffic situation.

The traffic study discussion was part of a broader conversation on the need for a comprehensive approach to traffic management in the township. Concerns were raised about the effectiveness of advanced warning signs, communication with Burlington County, and the impact of vacant warehouses on traffic flow. The council expressed skepticism about the county’s willingness to act on the study’s findings but also acknowledged its potential to provide valuable data for future development and infrastructure improvement.

In addition to traffic and insurance, the council discussed the storm water pollution prevention plan, which is nearing completion. There was a discussion on the need for ordinances related to privately owned salt storage and tree removal and replacement. The salt storage ordinance aims to prevent salt from washing into the storm sewer system, while the tree ordinance would apply to the removal of any healthy live tree by any party. Health benefit costs for local government employees were also a concern, with a projected 16% rate increase for the upcoming year prompting the council to explore alternative options.

The council also addressed ordinances related to storm water regulations, with concerns about the potential loss of the MS4 storm water license if not adopted. Other topics included the challenges homeowners face in obtaining tree-cutting permits, the use of Gator bags for watering newly planted trees, updates from the Police Department on officer recruitment, and public works activities such as brush collection and property maintenance.

The meeting concluded with the execution of several resolutions, including the contract renewal for the insurance fund, awarding a contract for acoustical panels, and authorizing a change order for the Field of Dreams field lighting project. Public concerns were raised about pavement cracks and illegal U-turns by driving schools, with the police department urging residents to report any violations. The possibility of installing a temporary speed bump to address speeding issues was also discussed.