The ongoing struggle with affordable housing mandates emerged as a topic during the meeting. The council discussed a lawsuit involving Montville, which underscored the broader challenges local governments face in complying with state housing regulations. The council found the proposed number of housing units unacceptable due to problems with parking, setbacks, and circulation. A council member emphasized the need for development plans to work within the constraints of the site, stating, “You can’t just pick a number and say that’s the number of units we want on the site. It has to work on the site.”

The demand for affordable housing in Hawthorne was another significant concern, with over a thousand applications previously submitted for a limited number of units. The process, managed by an outside agency, Piazza and Associates, employs a lottery system that does not allow preferences for local residents, seniors, veterans, or individuals with disabilities. This situation has led to frustration among council members, one of whom remarked that the process seemed more about developer profit than genuinely addressing affordable housing needs.

In examining the financial aspect of affordable housing, it was noted that rental costs for very low-income units range from $600 to $800 per month, with low-income units at approximately $1,000 and moderate units around $1,200. In comparison, market rates for similar one-bedroom units can reach up to $2,500. The council discussed the sustainability of these affordable units and the necessity for developers to maintain them as such, returning to the lottery system when a unit becomes vacant.

The council also addressed the potential for designating a portion of the affordable housing specifically for seniors or veterans. Although developers can allocate a percentage of units as senior housing, the council noted that not all units can be so restricted, highlighting the difference between general senior housing and affordable senior housing.

The council’s discussion moved beyond housing to address the community’s response to a recent house fire on Gel Road, which involved one of Hawthorne’s oldest homes. The fire, which spread rapidly due to the construction type, resulted in the loss of historical memorabilia. The mayor commended the swift actions of the fire department, police, and emergency personnel, and the community’s effective response, noting the absence of chaos during the incident.

In public works updates, the council reviewed various projects, including the ongoing PSENG gas main service line installations, the completion of Gothal Hill emergency water main work, and the progression of the Peach Tree rehabilitation project. The administrator reported on upcoming contracts for curbside solid waste collection and PAS treatment media replacement, emphasizing the need for careful budget considerations.

Community events were also a focus, with announcements about the Chamber of Commerce’s Santa Parade and tree lighting ceremony, as well as a holiday home decorating contest. The council encouraged participation in these events.

The meeting concluded with discussions about public safety measures, including the installation of solar-powered stop signs and regulations for e-bikes and scooters. The council also addressed resident concerns about safety improvements in Fairview, the enforcement of traffic regulations, and the impact of new apartment developments on local schools.