The council’s decision to sell the YMCA property to Brightview highlighted the session. Members of the council supported the sale, noting the benefits of acquiring a new rateable and the importance of retaining the YMCA within Livingston. They cited financial advantages and minimized concerns about school overcrowding due to the nature of the assisted living facility. Despite the council’s approval, public opposition emerged, particularly around the use of Payment in Lieu of Taxes (PILOT) and the financial dealings with Brightview.

The issue of the gun range, located near the East Hanover neighborhood, dominated public comments. Residents from Fox Run Drive detailed how the noise from the range severely disrupted their daily lives, including work-from-home conditions and their children’s remote schooling. One resident’s remark that the noise prevented participation in conference calls underscored the severity of the situation. The superintendent of schools in East Hanover criticized the council and mayor for inaction, revealing that state police intervention was necessary to halt shooting at the range. These residents appealed to the council for a permanent closure of the gun range due to the significant disturbance.

In response, the council provided historical context, stating that the land for the gun range was donated in 1961 and had been in continuous use since. They recognized the mandated state qualifications for law enforcement officers’ firearms use and acknowledged the rise in noise complaints with the recent state police activities. The council informed the public that the state police would cease using the facility and that they were considering solutions, including the creation of an indoor range or soundproofing measures.

Additionally, a resident from Dartmore Road voiced safety concerns for children playing near the open range. The council assured that the range was a short-range facility. Nevertheless, the resident urged the council to consider the range’s community impact and potential alternatives, like enclosing or relocating the range.

Concerns extended to an indoor range at Northland Pool, where issues of pollution and lead poisoning were raised. A resident’s request to vacate a paper street for property consolidation also emerged as a point of frustration due to perceived council inaction.

Further, the noise from the range was implicated in affecting property sales, as residents called for a modern, silent gun range that could enhance the neighborhood’s appeal. The conversation shifted towards the community’s construction projects, emphasizing the need for skilled local employment and addressing the shortage of poll workers for upcoming elections.

The council also touched upon community initiatives and events, including household hazardous waste day, electronics recycling, business openings, Vietnam Veterans Day, Easter, and other holiday celebrations.