The discussion around the deputy municipal manager position was the most heated topic of the meeting. The proposal, which was up for final passage, faced strong opposition from at least one resident who criticized the need for the position given the substantial salary of the current municipal manager, which is reported to be nearly $250,000. This resident questioned the current manager’s ability to fully dedicate his time to township duties, citing potential conflicts of interest due to his private legal practice located near the municipal office. The speaker further scrutinized who holds the manager accountable and whether the council conducts formal evaluations. The resident emphasized that the request for a deputy did not originate from the manager but was instead proposed by the council in anticipation of future administrative demands.

The mayor defended the council’s decision, arguing that the additional position was necessary to address both current needs and future challenges facing the township’s administration. The resident’s concerns extended beyond administrative necessity to ethical considerations, questioning whether the manager might direct the deputy to perform tasks that could be ethically questionable. This concern was compounded by references to a recent lawsuit that allegedly cost the township a significant amount, underscoring fears of inadequate oversight.

The municipal manager responded to these allegations, denying any conflict of interest and asserting his full availability for council matters. He clarified that his contract does not specify business hours, as he is expected to be on call. The manager expressed frustration over what he described as unfounded allegations, emphasizing the adverse impact on his reputation.

The debate over the deputy municipal manager position highlighted broader concerns about transparency and oversight within the township’s administration. The discussion reached a point of tension, leading to a brief recess to restore order after the exchanges became heated. The council attempted to maintain focus on the ordinance at hand, but the need for improved communication and clearer managerial expectations remained evident.

In addition to the debate over administrative staffing, the meeting addressed several other topics. A significant portion was dedicated to public opposition to a proposed gas compressor station, part of the Williams Transco Northeast Supply Enhancement project. Residents voiced concerns about the potential health and environmental risks, including toxic emissions, noise pollution, and proximity to a quarry that uses dynamite. One resident warned of the dangers posed by toxic chemicals emitted during gas burning, which could contaminate local water supplies. Another resident, Diane Hire, provided visual evidence of the pollution impact area and reiterated the dangers, calling on the council to oppose the project.

The council listened attentively to these concerns but did not engage in immediate discussion about the compressor station during the meeting. Residents urged the council to join other New Jersey towns in opposing the project, stressing its potential impact on the densely populated area of Lawrence.

Additional agenda items included the awarding and rejection of bids. The council unanimously approved a bid for acquiring plan review tables, aimed at expediting the electronic submission and review process. Bids were also awarded for affordable housing rehabilitation projects at two local addresses. These decisions were made with little opposition.

The council also introduced an ordinance to amend the salary ordinance by creating a deputy municipal manager position. This move was justified by the need for additional administrative support to manage public safety and departmental duties, particularly in light of upcoming improvements in the police and fire departments. The council member advocating for this change highlighted the strategic growth of the municipality and the necessity of this role to enhance governance.