The most significant portion of the meeting revolved around the efforts to combat illegal tobacco and vaping sales to minors. Christa Riddle, Captain Tom Rizzo from the Howell Police, and John Agar from Code Enforcement presented a detailed update on an ordinance addressing underage tobacco and nicotine sales, as well as the illegal sale of flavored vape products. This ordinance, adopted unanimously in April 2023, imposes strict penalties for violations, including fines ranging from $1,000 to $2,000 and mandates proper licensing for retailers.

Riddle highlighted the development of the ordinance through extensive inter-departmental collaboration. Initial assessments revealed that many retailers were selling illegal flavored vape products. Undercover operations conducted over two days resulted in 21 violations, with potential fines amounting to $24,000. Out of these, 12 violations involved underage nicotine sales, and six were related to flavored vape sales. Retailers were found to be in violation despite educational outreach efforts, leading to the closure of one business and several retailers opting not to renew their licenses.

A council member expressed admiration for Riddle’s dedication to addressing the dangers of vaping among youth, noting her long-standing commitment and efforts in educating parents about the risks associated with vaping products.

The council members expressed support for the ongoing initiative to mitigate underage access to harmful products and emphasized the importance of public health and safety. The presentation concluded with a commitment to continued collaboration and vigilance in enforcing the ordinance and protecting the community’s youth.

In other discussions, the council issued a proclamation for International Overdose Awareness Day. Christa Riddle presented the proclamation. She shared that Howell Township had 224 fatal and non-fatal drug overdoses from January 2020 to June 2024, emphasizing the need for community education on overdose prevention and the reduction of stigma around addiction. Riddle highlighted the display of purple flags outside to represent overdose deaths in Monmouth County.

Public comments included a resident, Civia AZ, who proposed utilizing a recently acquired property on Lakewood Allenwood Road as a daycare facility. She argued that there is a lack of childcare facilities in Howell Township, particularly for families eligible for the CHS program. Another resident, Patrick Garfa, raised concerns regarding a procedural issue in the recent county committee elections, questioning the legitimacy of a candidate who was mistakenly placed on the ballot and advocating for the integrity of the electoral process.

The council discussed various community events and infrastructure projects. Updates included the postponement of the final concert until August 28, the success of the “Movies in the Park” series, and upcoming events such as Fall Fest and a Turkey Trot. The paving program saw completed work on Lan’s Mill, ongoing improvements to local parks, and plans to secure basketball nets and create new pickleball courts from a decommissioned softball field.

A public hearing regarding Soldier Memorial Park focused on the need for restroom facilities, with creative solutions like trailer bathrooms being considered due to challenges with sewer connections. Legal updates included the conclusion of a litigation matter involving the mobile home rent control board, where a 2.5% rent increase was upheld.

Further, an administration member addressed concerns about a specific property in town, clarifying that any decision would likely involve a lease or sale and emphasized the need for thorough evaluation to avoid future complications.

The conversation also touched on an offshore wind project, with significant public concern about safety and environmental issues. The town had previously opposed the project but recognized the need to negotiate terms if it were approved.

Lastly, elected officials expressed gratitude for positive feedback on the town’s summer programs and community events, thanking various departments for their efforts. The council moved on to the consent agenda and addressed ordinances under unfinished business and new introductions, including amendments to the township code regarding livestock and family home daycares in residential zones.