A central focus of the meeting was the potential impact of Senate Bill S4423. The bill has raised alarms among council members, who believe it could strip them of critical input regarding land use decisions for the proposed nuclear plants. One council member emphasized the importance of having a say in local land use, noting, “We want to have a say in the land use in our town. We don’t think that’s outlandish.” Concerns were further expressed about the lack of written documentation regarding the council’s actions to oppose the bill. It was confirmed that a letter had been sent to legislative representatives months prior, outlining the council’s stance.

Additionally, the discussion touched on the management of nuclear waste. A council member highlighted the existence of a nuclear waste fund, which has amassed approximately $49 billion since a tax for waste management ceased in 2014. They suggested that legislative changes could allow these funds to be used for local infrastructure and education. Participants expressed frustration over the federal government’s lack of recognition of Lacey Township’s role as a nuclear waste repository, with one member comparing the township to “Yucka Mountain,” indicating the burden of housing nuclear waste without adequate support.

The meeting also addressed the broader ramifications of legislative actions and the financial implications involved. Concerns were raised about industry stakeholders, such as Holtec, potentially resisting state directives that threaten their investments. The council underscored the need for vigilance as the political landscape surrounding nuclear energy remains complex and fraught with competing interests.

A resident’s comments during public participation highlighted the urgency of community engagement on these issues. Regina Desa reminded residents about the importance of participating in the upcoming elections, emphasizing the need for voter registration and accurate address verification. She urged residents to be proactive in addressing community matters, such as the proposed nuclear power plants.

Beyond the nuclear power concerns, the meeting included a presentation on heart health by Jim Andrews, CEO of Deborah Heart and Lung Center. Andrews stressed the high rates of heart and vascular disease in southern New Jersey and advocated for proactive health measures. He highlighted the importance of financial transparency within the healthcare system and encouraged residents to become informed healthcare consumers.

The council also addressed several resolutions related to municipal funding and operations. A resolution was passed to insert a special item of revenue and appropriation in the 2025 municipal budget for a Community Development Block Grant, amounting to $40,000. Additionally, a resolution for the National Opioid Settlement Fund allocated $45,000 to the budget. Both resolutions received unanimous support.

Further municipal operations were discussed, including the award of contracts for various projects such as the Lakeside Drive bulkhead replacement and webpage support services. A memorandum of understanding was authorized with Ocean County RSVP for volunteer recruitment, and the council agreed to convey property to the Fork River Volunteer Fire Company. The meeting also approved employee leave requests and a tax cancellation for a 100% disabled veteran exemption.

Deputy Mayor Kennis commented on the ongoing challenge from Fair Share, emphasizing the township’s need to build more affordable housing. He also mentioned the first reading of an ordinance for additional dredging at Bayside Beach and the Forked River area.

Public comments also addressed pressing local issues, notably the Lacey School District referendum seeking $28 million for funding. Richard Bidnik, chair of the Lacey Citizens for Responsible Government, criticized the school board’s management practices and alleged inflated costs. He highlighted a financial burden on taxpayers and called for a more transparent and fiscally responsible approach.