A central issue at the council meeting was the handling of surplus funds following the dissolution of the Gloucester Township Municipal Utilities Authority (MUA). Residents, including Ray Pador, expressed skepticism over the council’s claims of urgency in passing resolutions linked to these funds. Pador criticized the council for not managing funds as prudently as the MUA had, accusing them of a “money grab” and failing to maintain low rates while handling surplus finances. He also referenced past voter opposition to new funding measures.

The discussion extended to the fiscal strategy regarding the sewer utility system. Ordinance O-24 D24, which proposed $585,000 for improvements to the system, sparked debate. Pador suggested using the estimated $2.8 million surplus from the MUA to avoid incurring additional debt through bonds. He compared the council’s approach to “running and swiping the credit cards,” arguing for the use of available cash to prevent further taxpayer burden amid rising interest rates. A council member responded by noting the surplus exceeded necessary amounts and should be returned to taxpayers.

Denise Coin raised questions about the necessity of a bond ordinance for sewer repairs, when approximately $2 million was awaiting release from the state’s Infrastructure Bank (IBank). Coin suggested that the council should follow the MUA’s example of billing customers for necessary repairs and building a fund for renewal and replacement. She expressed concern that the current approach would lead to higher taxes, contrasting with the MUA’s successful financial management.

The council defended its fiscal decisions, stating that funds from the IBank were not yet available for immediate use and that borrowing was necessary for infrastructure improvements. This defense highlighted a fundamental disagreement over fiscal management strategies, with residents advocating for a more conservative approach to avoid increasing the township’s debt and tax burden.

The council also addressed other notable topics, including the introduction of ordinance 0-24 D25 for park improvements at Taylor Avenue Park. The project was funded entirely through a $948,000 grant, thus avoiding additional bond costs. Similarly, ordinance 0-24 D26 was passed, amending the traffic code to establish a mid-block crosswalk on Little Gloucester Road.

In a separate discussion, council members were urged to maintain civility and respect towards residents during meetings, with one member reminding colleagues of accountability to the public. This call for respectful discourse followed past interactions that had reportedly become contentious.

Public inquiries included Keith Gibbons’ questions about the removal of a lectern from the council chambers and concerns over unpaid Medicare payments to retired township employees. The council categorized the latter as a personnel matter, assuring that payments were scheduled for approval.

Shy Smithman raised jurisdictional concerns about municipal services, noting discrepancies in service provision between Clementon and Gloucester Township. Additionally, Smithman questioned the absence of an invocation at the meeting.

As the meeting concluded, council members extended holiday greetings and highlighted upcoming community events, such as the Citizens Police Academy and Martin Luther King Jr. Day service activities. They acknowledged a council member for two decades of service, emphasizing the importance of community engagement and participation.