A noteworthy development from the meeting was the approval of Resolution 186, which establishes a senior citizen priority parking program. This initiative will allocate designated parking spots for senior citizens, helping to address accessibility issues for older residents. Permits, available for a $20 annual fee, will grant seniors the convenience of reserved parking throughout the town. The program aims to provide a practical benefit to the senior community.

Another resolution passed was Resolution 194, which involves a shared service agreement with Volunteers of America. This agreement is designed to enhance support for unhoused residents across the county by providing access to a network that monitors individuals in need. The program will utilize technology, including iPads, to improve the police’s ability to respond to and assist those requiring services. The county has secured state funding to expand this program to multiple municipalities. Haddonfield plans to use opioid funds instead of tax revenue to assist individuals housed in shelters or motels, which marks an efficient use of available resources in addressing housing challenges.

The council also discussed a fourth-round settlement agreement with Fair Share Housing, approved by a judge, that positions Haddonfield as a leader in fulfilling its affordable housing obligations. This settlement, included in Resolution 196, ensures Haddonfield has met its third-round obligations and is among the first to settle fourth-round obligations. The modifications to the fourth-round plan will be presented to the planning board in February 2024, with discussions on necessary ordinance updates expected in January.

In another highlight of the meeting, a certificate of appreciation was presented to Scott Melon, the long-serving chair of the Shade Tree Commission, who was unable to attend due to illness. Melon’s tenure was marked by innovative initiatives such as the STAR program and efforts to remove dead and dying trees swiftly. His dedication and contributions were acknowledged, and there is hope for his return to the commission after focusing on family commitments.

The council also proclaimed January 2026 as Muslim Heritage Month, in recognition of the contributions of Muslim Americans to the community and the nation. The local group Muslims of Haddonfield was mentioned for its role in promoting cultural and educational activities within the town.

During the meeting, three ordinances were considered in their second reading. Ordinance 2025-13 established regulations for direct deposit for municipal employees, Ordinance 2025-14 addressed third-party payroll, and Ordinance 2025-15 proposed a $230,000 bond for various capital improvements. All three ordinances were unanimously adopted after the public comment periods, which saw no participation from attendees either in person or online.

In the public comment segment following the resolutions, Tom Kelly, president of the board of trustees for Haddonfield Commons, expressed gratitude to first responders who managed a fire incident on November 20, highlighting the importance of addressing ongoing safety concerns, particularly a sinkhole dispute that has persisted since March 2024. Kelly emphasized the need for collaboration among involved parties to resolve the issue, while expressing relief that no injuries occurred during the incident, despite the loss of two cats and the displacement of several residents.