The meeting began with Assemblyman Dan Hutchinson addressing the council about substantial rent increases at a local mobile home park. Hutchinson emphasized the plight of residents living on fixed incomes, who had received notices of rent hikes from approximately $642 to $890 per month. He urged the council to consider drafting an ordinance that would require any rental increases in mobile home parks to undergo a review process. This proposal aims to ensure that rent hikes are fair and not unconscionable, especially since the current state statute lacks clear definitions for such increases. Hutchinson referenced a state law limiting rent increases to 3.5% unless approved by the Department of Community Affairs (DCA) and requested the mayor meet with affected residents to address the urgency of the situation.

The council also discussed Ordinance 725, which proposed rezoning certain properties from residential agricultural to highway commercial interchange. This ordinance would facilitate solar energy development in the newly designated areas, with fewer restrictions compared to other zones. During the discussion, concerns were raised about the potential environmental impact of allowing up to 80% land utilization for solar energy in sensitive areas. A suggestion was made to table the ordinance until clarity was provided regarding pending legal challenges to previous solar ordinances that had been invalidated by a judge.

Another topic was the community’s support for the Littlest Angel bookstore, which is facing legal challenges. Various residents, including Nancy Kennedy, Victoria Brent, and others, expressed their unwavering support for the bookstore, describing it as a vital community ministry that provides hope and sanctuary. They appealed to the council for intervention to ensure the bookstore could continue its operations. The comments reflected strong community sentiment, with some speakers questioning the township’s financial decisions related to the legal actions against the bookstore.

Council members and residents also addressed other community concerns. Daniel Grace, a resident of a local trailer park, expressed frustration over the deteriorating conditions and substantial rent increases. He highlighted personal hardships, including financial struggles exacerbated by health issues, and criticized the lack of support from local authorities regarding maintenance and drainage problems. A solicitor provided context about potential legislative changes at the state level that could influence rent control measures in the future, although current delays in implementation allowed the increases to proceed without restriction.

The council acknowledged the concerns raised by residents and expressed appreciation for public engagement. There was a sense of urgency in the voices of public speakers, who urged the council to take action to protect the welfare of the community.

Additionally, the council approved various administrative items, including correspondence, minutes from previous meetings, and a mobile food handling license for Ember Barbecue. Ordinance 525, aimed at revising standards for accessory structures, was adopted unanimously, and Ordinance 925, improving buffering standards between residential and non-residential uses, was also adopted. A bond ordinance authorizing nearly $2.9 million for various capital improvements was discussed, with concerns raised about funding for new trash trucks. A resident suggested the township explore outsourcing collection services before committing to the purchase of new trucks.

The council also addressed resolutions related to school resource officers, public works employment agreements, and the acquisition of police vehicles through state contracts.