A resident, Joel Bassoff, highlighted the timing issue. He questioned what changes in the mayor’s duties justified the increase, especially when compared to the governor of New Jersey, who earns a lower salary despite overseeing a much larger population. Bassoff argued that the increase should have been proposed before the election if it was truly intended to reflect the office’s demands rather than benefiting the individual.

In response, council members defended the increase by citing comparisons with mayoral salaries in other municipalities. Some argued that the mayor’s role in Edison has transitioned to full-time, necessitating a competitive salary. They pointed to Mayor McCormack of Woodbridge, who earns over $200,000, as a benchmark for similar-sized townships. A council member said that the salary should reflect the mayor’s responsibilities, which include managing a $200 million budget and overseeing various departments.

Public opposition was further voiced by resident Sumalone Barber, who noted the cumulative increase in the mayor’s salary over recent years. She argued that such a raise was excessive and not justifiable by the economic climate. Barber warned that the proposed salary would position Edison’s mayor among the highest-paid in the state, surpassing those in larger cities like Newark and Jersey City.

The council’s debate on this issue underscored broader concerns about fiscal responsibility and transparency in governance. Residents questioned the necessity and timing of the salary increase, urging the council to reconsider in light of current economic conditions and community sentiment.

In a separate but related issue, the council discussed a pilot program for developing a contaminated site in the township. The project, which includes a driving range and development on Inman Avenue, raised concerns about its potential impact on local infrastructure and traffic. Despite skepticism about a traffic study’s findings, the council noted that the age-restricted nature of the development would minimize additional strain on schools. The vice president explained that confidentiality agreements limited the disclosure of certain project documents.

Council members argued that the pilot program was essential to revitalize long-neglected land, which currently generates little revenue. They emphasized the project’s importance, highlighting that it would involve significant remediation costs. Comparisons were made to developments in nearby Metuchen.

A council member assured residents that the project would ultimately benefit the township by transforming a derelict area into a productive asset.

The meeting also addressed various community issues, including public safety and infrastructure. Concerns were raised about the funding for a private bathroom in the mayor’s office, including a shower. A resident criticized the mayor for not adequately addressing recent threats at local schools and colleges.

The council also discussed committee reports, with updates on winter weather preparations and community engagement initiatives. The Department of Public Works was reported to be ready for snow management, while the local animal shelter received praise for a successful adoption rate.

Other topics included an upcoming holiday decorating contest and community events, as well as concerns about speeding school buses. The council agreed to communicate with the Board of Education to address traffic safety issues.

Finally, the council decided to remove a proposed ordinance regarding council salaries from consideration. Members expressed discomfort with the timing and magnitude of the proposed raises, particularly given recent reductions in public speaking time during meetings. The decision to table the ordinance was unanimous.