A point of discussion was the introduction of the 2024 Municipal budget, with a public hearing set for May 8th. The council’s announcement of the receipt of two grants from the New Jersey Department of Transportation (NJ DOT) for Avenue Prior Pavement repairs and the reconstruction of Brighton Avenue underscores the focus on local infrastructure. Additionally, the council addressed concerns about door-to-door solicitation for solar panels by presenting a new decal system aimed to deter unauthorized solicitation.

During the public comment portion of the meeting, residents raised several issues, including frustrations with trash pickup regulations and the cleanliness of the neighborhood. The effectiveness of the township in addressing a sewer blockage was praised by one resident while another inquired about the application process for senior housing and the potential for health outreach programs.

Council members discussed the Borough Hall’s potential transition into a community center, acknowledging Councilwoman Odessa Patton for her service on the public events committee and her efforts to resolve issues such as the aging movie screen. Challenges in painting the train bridge due to difficulties in obtaining permissions from New Jersey Transit and an advertising agency were also debated, highlighting the complexities of maintaining public infrastructure.

Questions were raised about the library board, specifically the school superintendent’s role and compliance with state and federal regulations, including the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). There was a particular focus on whether the library was exempt from ADA compliance due to its proximity to the county library.

Environmental cleanups and infrastructure challenges related to apartment complexes prompted calls for county and state resources to address these issues. Clarification regarding the legality of door-to-door soliciting was provided, and the council invited further follow-up on unresolved questions and issues.

The meeting also touched on various ordinances and resolutions, including those related to park and recreation fees, code enforcement activities, and the upcoming newsletter. The Fire Department reported on its activities and presented awards, while the library announced upcoming events and a spring cleanup.

The Police Department provided statistics on call services and community policing efforts, and Public Works reported on trash and recycling collection, as well as initiatives to support the homeless. The Code Enforcement office shared its monthly report and plans for seminars on power of attorney, living wills, and will writing.

Residents were reminded about Earth Day and encouraged not to burn vegetation. Announcements included a school play, the Early Learning Center construction, and upcoming community events such as a cleanup event and a spring yard sale. A service called Scot Services for Senior Citizens was highlighted, offering information about shared senior living.