The meeting’s most heated moment came during the public comment period when Anthony Ptor, a resident of the Fourth Ward, expressed his deep dissatisfaction with the proposed salary hike for the fire district commissioners. Ptor outlined several grievances related to the management of the East Franklin Fire Department, including a potential closure due to unresolved contract disputes and a lack of professionalism displayed by the commissioners during meetings. He recounted a specific incident from a July meeting where procedural standards were ignored due to the absence of a quorum, rendering the session ineffective.

Ptor’s concerns did not end with meeting protocols. He criticized the commissioners for failing to communicate effectively with the public and not providing satisfactory explanations regarding funding for paid firefighters and the allocation of resources for new fire equipment. He questioned whether the commissioners would consider forgoing their pay to address these financial challenges, noting that none offered a meaningful response. Highlighting a perceived lack of engagement and accountability, he found the idea of a pay increase “appalling” amid their ongoing issues.

Ptor’s frustration extended to the commissioners’ apparent neglect of their training and participation responsibilities, which he believed compromised the safety of both residents and firefighters. He announced his intention to run for commissioner, emphasizing the need for leadership that prioritizes community safety. Following Ptor’s remarks, the mayor moved to close the public comment section, which was seconded and approved without opposition.

In another significant decision, the council discussed and approved Resolution 24392, authorizing the payment of utility bills on behalf of The Meadows Foundation to support the preservation of historic structures. The financial oversight committee had previously reviewed the matter, and the council deemed it important to assist the foundation, which had been struggling to manage its utility expenses. The arrangement will extend through 2025, allowing the foundation to stabilize its finances. Several council members expressed strong support for this measure, acknowledging the foundation’s role in maintaining historic buildings for public access and education.

The meeting further covered a range of community-focused initiatives. Council members discussed upcoming events at the youth center, including a “Jingle and Mingle” holiday program and plans for a “Shop with a Cop” event to foster positive interactions between police officers and children. A new special needs registry was introduced to better support individuals in the community, with registration details made available through the police department’s platforms.

In terms of public safety, the “Arrive Together” program was praised for its effectiveness in addressing mental health crises without resulting in arrests or violence. The council encouraged residents to participate in community safety programs, such as notifying police of absences during vacations to enhance neighborhood security.

Traffic issues were also on the agenda, with plans for a public meeting to discuss a master plan traffic study. The council shared updates on pending traffic cameras and insights from a recent corridor study that had garnered public interest. A holiday tree lighting event was highlighted as an upcoming community gathering.

The council addressed fiscal management, including discussions on how to strategically allocate cannabis revenue rather than allowing it to flow into the general fund. There was also a call for a committee dedicated to affordable housing, with the township manager and attorney expected to take the lead.

As the meeting concluded, the council approved the 2025 Township calendar. Financial warrants were reviewed and passed, and an ordinance regarding handicap parking was introduced, though it did not receive public comment. The session closed with acknowledgments of committee vacancies for 2024, without any immediate nominations.