The most notable event was the proclamation from the mayor’s office, celebrating the East Brunswick Cubs baseball team for their impressive record of 61 wins, 14 losses, and two ties over two years. They were honored for their victory over the Berkeley Heights team, crowning them the 2024 HU Middle Atlantic Regional Champions. During the ceremony, the players and coaches gathered in front of the dais to receive individual recognition. Mayor Brad Cohen commended the team’s hard work, dedication, and perseverance, stating, “There’s something really special when a group of young men click along with their coaches at this young age.” The players were awarded medals, with notable mentions including Jack, who played second base, and Quinn, who played shortstop and pitcher. The event concluded with applause and photo opportunities to capture the celebratory moment.

Following this recognition, the meeting resumed with an emphasis on local infrastructure and financial updates. Business Administrator Joseph Kulo highlighted Resolution 24245, which involved a change order for Black Ro Enterprise. This change pertained to adding water lines and paving on Troy and Bennett Court, in addition to unforeseen requests from the Board of Education for extra paving at Chitic School. Kulo clarified that this was for additional work rather than a change in scope. He also praised the engineering and planning departments for their work on New Brunswick Avenue, noting improvements such as replaced water lines, curb cuts, and the addition of bike lanes.

Kulo further commended the Department of Public Works for their diligence in maintaining catch basins during adverse weather. He also announced a significant grant from the state amounting to $750,000 for creating a fully handicapped accessible playground at Landon Park, with the township matching $250,000. Expressing enthusiasm for the project, Kulo stated, “Anytime I can get four to one, I’ll take it,” emphasizing the collaborative efforts that secured the grant.

Community engagement was another key topic, with Councilwoman Dana Zimbicki reflecting on the positive recognition of East Brunswick at a statewide educator conference. She highlighted upcoming community events, such as a s’mores family movie night featuring “Sing 2” at the community art center on August 21st. Zimbicki emphasized the importance of community involvement, stating, “There’s something for everybody in East Brunswick,” and praised the success of recent events like the Princess concert, which had drawn hundreds of attendees.

During the public comment portion, resident Joan Sakola addressed the council regarding the ongoing issue of community cats. Sakola, a volunteer with Sami’s Hope Animal Welfare and Adoption Agency, recounted her experience with previous animal control practices and advocated for modifying the existing ordinance to support trap-neuter-return (TNR) efforts. She argued that such changes would help reduce the cat population and associated nuisance calls, noting, “When cats are trapped and neutered and spayed and vaccinated, it reduces the spread of rabies.” Sakola urged the council to consider revising the ordinance and suggested looking into successful programs in neighboring communities for guidance.

Another resident raised concerns about a water bill he received, questioning the lengthy estimated billing period and seeking clarification on meter readings. He also inquired about mosquito spraying in the area and expressed annoyance about noise from overhead aircraft.

The council proceeded with the consent agenda, approving resolutions numbered 24-242 through 24-253, which were deemed routine and non-controversial. The council also addressed ordinance number 24-22, involving amendments to the code of ethics regarding the definition of an officer.