The discussion on police recruitment topped the agenda, with the council considering a resolution to adopt a civil service exemption. The exemption aims to alleviate the challenges associated with the current hiring process for police officers, which has been criticized for being lengthy and cumbersome. The police chief stressed the importance of expediting recruitment by allowing candidates who have completed accredited training to bypass the traditional civil service testing schedule.

To further support recruitment efforts, upcoming job fairs are planned, including one at Rutgers and another scheduled for May 7. The council expressed general support for the resolution, considering it a temporary measure to facilitate hiring amid a competitive landscape for officers. They emphasized adherence to civil service requirements and maintaining a nepotism policy. The council’s stance on this issue reflects the need for qualified officers in the town’s police department, which currently operates with 27 officers funded for 32 positions.

The meeting also delved into the town’s sewer system maintenance and upgrades, as highlighted by a comprehensive sewer utility annual report presented by Keith Chervalo of CME Associates. The report included a detailed description of the facilities and the sewer system, emphasizing the need for ongoing assessments and potential remediation strategies due to aging infrastructure. Notably, the township’s sewer system, primarily installed in 1967, spans over 64 miles of gravity sewer lines and includes nine pump stations. The report identified three pump stations utilizing an older can-type design, which poses safety challenges for operators. These stations are slated for upgrades to a submersible type.

A critical point of discussion was the township’s interceptor line, approximately 13,000 feet long and constructed of asbestos cement pipe (ACP). Given its age and critical function, Chervalo recommended evaluating its condition using innovative methods like sonar and camera inspections. The council recognized the importance of these evaluations to prevent potential failures due to hydrogen sulfide gas exposure, which accelerates pipe deterioration.

The council also reviewed financial strategies for maintaining the sewer system without increasing rates, noting a sewer surplus of approximately $766,000. This surplus will cover the budgeted amount for maintenance without necessitating a rate increase. However, some members expressed caution, emphasizing the need for proactive maintenance to prevent future issues. The council’s focus on fiscal responsibility included discussions on a pending bond ordinance to authorize $300,000 for sewer utility system improvements. The bond would fund the Creek Road sewer line extension and related projects, with costs reimbursed by the county.

Public comments were an aspect of the meeting, reflecting community concerns about financial transparency and infrastructure improvements. Residents raised questions about the cost implications of the bond and the town’s borrowing practices, particularly given a reported $7 million surplus in the sewer account. The council acknowledged these concerns, with some members highlighting the necessity of borrowing to secure improvements.

In addition to infrastructure and recruitment, the meeting addressed community engagement initiatives. Discussions included the potential for streaming zoning and planning board meetings on digital platforms like YouTube. Concerns about excessive noise from car mufflers were also raised, with council members acknowledging the need for effective enforcement to maintain quality of life.