Concerns over the condition of the Parkside Senior Center dominated the meeting, as multiple community members, including Diane Harris and Agnes Kulubana, criticized the delayed and incomplete renovations. Harris highlighted the absence of curb cutouts near handicap parking spaces, which forces individuals into the street, and mentioned unfinished tasks such as power washing and painting the building exterior. She expressed skepticism about proposed renovation timelines, particularly during holidays, pointing out that the center remains active year-round. Additionally, Harris noted the need for benches at G Brasso Grove and improvements to lobby lighting and handicap access doors. Kulubana echoed these concerns, describing the facility as neglected and urging the council to allocate funds from township revenue to address the needs of a significant voter demographic.

Emergency response protocols were another focal point, particularly following Karen Newman’s account of her husband’s cardiac arrest and the perceived inadequacies in the emergency response. Newman criticized the response time and execution of CPR by the first officer on the scene, emphasizing the delay in attaching the AED. Her concerns were supported by Jan Brandt, a nurse specializing in CPR, who advocated for improved training and the dispatch of multiple officers to cardiac emergencies. Brandt proposed “Jonathan’s Law,” which would mandate CPR and AED training for staff in senior communities, drawing parallels to nursing homes. The council acknowledged these issues, promising further investigation and potential improvements.

Property taxes were a contentious topic, with residents expressing dissatisfaction over rising bills. Yang Zo and Javon Walker highlighted increases in their property tax assessments, questioning the justification amid modest income rises. During discussions, the township attorney clarified that the council controls only a small fraction of the total tax bill, with most funds allocated to the Board of Education, county services, and fire districts. Despite efforts to keep municipal tax increases below inflation, the broader system remains a challenge. The mayor and attorney emphasized the importance of understanding tax breakdowns and encouraged residents to address concerns with other taxing bodies.

Additionally, community engagement issues were highlighted, with some council members expressing frustration over attendees leaving meetings early, potentially leading to a lack of awareness about important developments, such as tax implications and new ordinances. The council emphasized the necessity of staying informed and participating in local governance to ensure residents’ voices are heard.

The meeting also touched on various ordinances and resolutions, including new animal regulations, property acquisitions, and zoning changes. The council passed an ordinance regulating free-roaming cat colonies and approved the acquisition of property from the Franklin Somerset First Aid Squad. Discussions on zoning changes aimed to facilitate property improvements, reflecting ongoing efforts to adapt to community needs.

Efforts to enhance local infrastructure were noted, with updates on road paving and water infrastructure projects funded by COVID relief funds. The council acknowledged the importance of maintaining safe and effective infrastructure, particularly in the fourth and fifth wards.

In closing remarks, the council discussed future community initiatives, including the Week of the People event and the construction of a community health center at Franklin Middle School.