The meeting commenced with a significant agenda item: the retirement of Police Chief Sam Brun, who has served the Hamilton Township Police Department for 28 years. He was acknowledged for his extensive service, including various roles leading to his promotion to chief in 2019. His educational achievements, such as a master’s degree in administrative science, were also highlighted during the proclamation honoring his career. The committee took this opportunity to express their gratitude for Chief Brun’s dedication and leadership.

Another major topic discussed was the pay-to-run program, designed to compensate firefighters for their service. An ordinance amendment was introduced to adjust the payout schedule, allowing firefighters to receive their payments before the holiday season. This change aims to ensure that payments are disbursed before the end of the year. Concerns about the implications on the fiscal year were addressed in consultation with the Chief Financial Officer, confirming that the adjustment would not affect the overall budget.

In addition to these discussions, the committee tackled the issues of interlocal services agreements and land sales. Resolutions were passed to extend agreements for solid waste collection services with the Atlantic County Utilities Authority and the Hamilton Township Board of Education, both for an additional two months. These extensions ensure continuity of essential services while allowing time for further negotiations.

The committee also introduced Ordinance 2119-2025 related to the pay-to-run program, scheduling a public hearing for November 10, 2025, to gather community input.

Public hearings were also held for the adoption of several ordinances authorizing the sale of township lots. Ordinance 2116-2025 addressed the sale of lots on Fulton Avenue, while Ordinance 2117-2025 pertained to lots on Mobile and Trenton Avenues. Ordinance 2118-2025 covered the sale of additional lots on Trenton and Market. Each ordinance included provisions granting contiguous property owners the right of first refusal to purchase the land. The ordinances received unanimous approval following the public hearings.

The committee then examined personnel matters, specifically the appointment of Acting Lieutenant Christopher Rizzo to the Hamilton Township Municipal Alliance for the 2025-2026 grant year. This appointment was approved with a majority vote, despite one member abstaining.

During the meeting, the Township Administrator provided an update on the stormwater mapping contract awarded to Remington and Vernick. A $25,000 grant will offset the project costs, which are due by the end of the year. This initiative aligns with New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection regulations.

In the public comment session, Harry Rogers raised questions about the budget for stormwater mapping, pointing out a discrepancy between the stated amount of $60,000 and the resolution amount of $50,000. He also inquired about the hours and practices of the new building inspector. The inspector’s work hours, beginning at 7 AM, were clarified to accommodate meetings with contractors. Concerns about the inspector’s use of a city vehicle and mileage charges were also addressed.

Concluding the meeting, the committee approved the minutes from the previous meeting and executive session, as well as the bills totaling $5,382,685.23. A motion to adjourn was passed, wrapping up the proceedings for the day.