The most contentious topic was the proposed changes to parking regulations along the waterfront, particularly the block between Second Street and Delaware Avenue. Residents expressed dissatisfaction with the idea of altering the current parking restrictions, which had been established to address previous disturbances, including loud music and illegal activities. Jay Cohen, a long-term resident, recalled that these issues diminished once parking restrictions were enforced and questioned the necessity of the proposed changes. Nancy El Rush and Lynn Whitney echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the effectiveness of existing regulations in maintaining peace and order in the neighborhood.

During the public comment session, residents highlighted various concerns about the proposed parking changes. Dave Russ raised questions about the implications of a shared service agreement for a school resource officer, inquiring if the officer’s responsibilities would extend to the library area. It was clarified that the officer’s primary focus would remain on the school. Additionally, Russ criticized past remarks by a council member labeling Delaware Avenue residents as “elitists,” calling for decorum from committee members.

Mayor Fitzpatrick addressed the controversy surrounding the term “elitist,” clarifying that it was not intended to label current residents but rather to reflect historical context. The mayor apologized for any offense caused and assured that the discussion on parking should not favor one neighborhood over another, emphasizing that public streets are for all residents of Delanco. The mayor further articulated that shifting parking issues from one area to another would not resolve underlying problems and that any parking limitations should have a clear public benefit.

The council also considered a proposed ordinance amendment to Chapter 135, regulating curbside brush collection. The current system requires residents to schedule pickups, which some members suggested is inconvenient. Instead, a scheduled pickup day was proposed, specifically on Mondays, to align with residents’ weekend yard work. The discussion revealed concerns about the safety of the equipment used for brush collection, with the operator describing the chipper as dangerous and expressing fears about unpredictable contents in the brush piles.

Council members debated the practicality of increasing the frequency of brush pickups, with one member suggesting that more frequent collections might not reduce the overall volume of brush but could address issues arising after storms. Concerns were also raised about residents’ compliance with existing regulations, as many put out brush well ahead of scheduled pickups, leading to unsightly conditions and safety risks for workers.

A trial period for the new brush collection schedule was proposed, with plans to revisit the ordinance based on the trial’s outcome. The council emphasized the importance of communicating brush placement and preparation rules to residents to avoid complications during collection. The proposed ordinance was set for a first reading, with a public hearing scheduled for a future date.

In addition to parking and brush collection, the council addressed several administrative matters. Resolutions involving agreements with the Delanco Township School District for a Class 3 special law enforcement officer and the hiring of a school resource officer were adopted. Jamie Laming was administered the oath of office as the new School Resource Officer.

Discussions on infrastructure projects included updates on the Crossings project, ongoing road repairs, and drainage improvements. The council also addressed a rebid for a 2025 CD grant contract, with a recommendation to award it to Ronald Construction, despite their limited public contract experience.

The meeting concluded with various reports and updates, including plans for a time capsule installation during an October celebration and the PSNG road paving project, which involves negotiating paving credits for full-width paving on Delaware Avenue and other streets. The council also discussed upcoming events, such as the National Night Out and the New Jersey League of Municipalities annual conference, encouraging participation from township representatives.