The meeting commenced with Mayor Lisa Crate recognizing two Girl Scout groups for their commendable contributions to environmental sustainability through their Silver Award projects. The first group comprised Satie McCutchen and Kylie Wiser, who undertook a project to collect 1,000 pounds of plastic waste to create a bench. This initiative not only diverted waste from landfills but also resulted in a new bench installed at Riverwalk Refuge. The second group, Gabriella and Samantha, implemented a composting project at Camp Stocky. Their work involved building a compost bin to reduce waste and support local gardening efforts. Mayor Crate commended the girls for their dedication and encouraged them to continue their efforts in community engagement.

Following these presentations, the council addressed several resolutions, one of which involved authorizing bids for snow removal services. The goal of this resolution was to expand the pool of available vendors by authorizing a new contract that would run alongside the existing one, set to expire in November 2026. This move was part of the council’s strategy to ensure efficient snow removal services during the winter months. Additionally, a resolution for tree trimming and removal was discussed, highlighting the need to outsource these services due to the township’s limited capacity to perform them in-house.

Infrastructure improvements were also a focus of the meeting. Councilwoman Dion presented a resolution to award a contract for drainage improvements on Meridian Drive, involving the installation of approximately 2,200 linear feet of drainage pipe. The project was awarded to GE Construction Services, identified as the lowest responsible bidder. Councilman Feman brought forth a resolution for resurfacing roadways on Longpoint and Perry Drives, with the contract awarded to Earl Asphalt Company following a competitive bidding process.

In a bid to improve emergency services, the council authorized a contract for remounting an ambulance through the Stafford Township Cooperative Pricing System. This $216,986 contract aimed to extend the lifespan of the township’s ambulance fleet, offering a cost-effective alternative to purchasing new vehicles. The importance of maintaining effective emergency services was further emphasized by the approval of shared service agreements with the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office. These agreements were part of efforts to enhance enforcement against impaired driving, including the Drug Recognition Expert Callout Program and the Driving While Intoxicated Enforcement Program.

Another topic was the approval of a memorandum of understanding with Bright Harbor Healthcare for the OnPoint program. This initiative focuses on providing outreach and access to social work referrals and behavioral healthcare for residents, addressing essential community health needs.

Additionally, financial matters were addressed, including the approval of multiple inspection fund and performance bond releases, tax overpayment deductions for veterans, and the passage of a computer bill resolution totaling $1,963,388.34, along with a manual bill resolution amounting to $4,181,129.40. These routine financial discussions proceeded without any public or council questions.

As the meeting transitioned to public comments, resident Sam Foster expressed his appreciation for Councilwoman Ponttiero, who had decided not to seek re-election, praising her dedication to public service. He also congratulated Councilman Albanese on his re-election.

Mayor Bergen announced upcoming community events, including a Veterans Day ceremony on November 11th and a Thanksgiving market on November 22nd, encouraging resident participation in these community activities. During council comments, members extended congratulations to the Girl Scouts for their achievements and expressed gratitude for the support received during recent election campaigns. Councilman Fineman took the opportunity to acknowledge Veterans Day and thank veterans for their service, while Councilwoman Travers highlighted the issue of food insecurity in Ocean County, encouraging community involvement through donations and volunteerism.