A significant portion of the meeting was devoted to addressing a dispute over poll worker treatment during the recent election. An unidentified speaker recounted an incident where they were denied access to election machine tapes, which they believed was due to a directive from the township clerk. The speaker expressed frustration, asserting their legal right to the tapes and attributing the denial to an ongoing conflict with a local school board member. The situation escalated when a council member intervened, expressing discomfort with the narrative and highlighting complaints received about the speaker’s conduct toward poll workers. The speaker denied any misconduct, insisting they had been courteous.

The council member suggested filing a formal grievance with the county regarding the complaints.

In another development, the council unanimously supported a resolution opposing Senate Bill S4736, which seeks to preempt local zoning regulations and enhance the ability of religious and nonprofit organizations to convert properties for affordable housing. The council’s stance reflects a broader concern about state intervention in local governance, emphasizing the importance of maintaining local control over zoning matters.

The meeting also celebrated the Harrington Group’s achievement in receiving an award for their “Recreation for All Seasons” video campaign. The campaign was recognized by the Communicator Awards for its excellence in communication, competing against thousands of entries evaluated by judges from the Academy of Interactive and Visual Arts. The council praised the Harrington Group’s history of producing award-winning content.

Several resolutions were discussed and approved during the meeting. These included authorizing a certificate of completion for the Lacey Family Apartments and filing a grant application for the Bayside Beach GR and Shoreline Stabilization Projects. The council also approved amendments to contracts for road improvement projects and an agreement with the Lacey Township Board of Education regarding crossing guards. Each resolution received unanimous support.

Deputy Mayor Steven Kennis acknowledged the recent election and thanked voters for their participation, noting a 55% turnout of eligible voters. He congratulated the newly elected school board members and emphasized the importance of civic engagement. Committeeman Timothy McDonald echoed these sentiments, highlighting the benefits of the housing rehabilitation program for residents in need and stressing the significance of recruiting volunteer firefighters amid new training regulations.

The council also addressed upcoming community events, with a member noting the 9th annual Lacey Lights event and the potential economic opportunities from the World Cup scheduled in New Jersey and Philadelphia in 2026. The Mayor discussed the importance of preparing for the influx of visitors, emphasizing the role of emergency services in managing the expected crowds.

In public comments, resident Alisa Waller advocated for preserving the Warden House, a historical site, as a museum rather than demolishing it. She also inquired about the future use of the recently purchased Fork River Mountain Land, stressing the importance of preserving it for public enjoyment. Josh Han from Fork River expressed gratitude for the council’s efforts during Halloween festivities, praising the local police department’s work and emphasizing community engagement’s value.