The council meeting began with the confirmation of Mayor Jason F. Cilento, Council President Trina Rios, Teresa Albertson, Jessica Dunne, Joseph Paltjon, and Daniel Cole Sigmon’s attendance. One notable issue was the recommendation from the mayor’s cannabis task force to continue opting out of having a cannabis business in Dunellen. The task force, led by Dr. No Jano, presented extensive research on the topic, highlighting perceived risks such as safety, traffic, and potential litigation related to license issuance. The task force also presented data from a townwide survey showing a split response from residents regarding cannabis-related businesses.

The council members sought clarification on the details of potential litigation, leading to a discussion about the challenges municipalities face in navigating the application process set by the Cannabis Regulatory Commission (CRC) and the potential for unfair practices in the licensing process. The task force concluded with a recommendation to continue opting out of having a cannabis business in Dunellen, with the possibility of revisiting the decision in the future if new data become available.

The council also discussed the results of a community survey on cannabis-related businesses, expressing concern about the low level of public participation and the need for a more comprehensive community engagement strategy. There was a debate about the potential revenue from cannabis-related businesses, with a council member expressing skepticism about the projected economic benefits.

Another discussion revolved around the potential revitalization of Main Street in Dunellen. Dr. David Ikin from Rutgers Bloustein School of Planning and Public Policy and his team of students presented findings from a two-year Master’s in Urban Planning program studio project, stressing the potential benefits of the Main Street program. The team touched on topics such as housing affordability, community development, and the economic benefits and reinvestment statistics associated with the Main Street program. The council engaged in a discussion about the requirements and obligations of becoming a Main Street program, emphasizing the importance of community interest and volunteer support.

Various resolutions and appointments were also approved during the meeting, including the approval of two street fairs for the Dunellen Fire Company in 2024, the appointment of Warren St. as the Borough Clerk and Local Registrar, and the hiring of Kelly Cedar as the Recreation Program Coordinator and Connie Aralo as an Administrative Support Specialist.

The council members engaged in council reports, with Council Member Al expressing gratitude to the Fire Department and Councilwoman Dun for their service. Mayor Jason F. Cilento extended holiday wishes to the residents and announced an upcoming reorganization meeting on January 1st. He also mentioned an anticipated completion date for new water service connections and a forthcoming resolution to support a double yellow line along North Washington Avenue.