17:54A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to addressing public grievances regarding Los Hollow Road. Residents, led by Mr. Demitri Zabas, described the condition of their road as “third world level,” highlighting severe erosion and the dangers it poses to vehicles. Zabas provided a detailed account of the road’s poor state, explaining that only partial repaving had been done years prior, and presented a map to illustrate the extent of the damage. He emphasized the personal impact, recounting multiple repairs needed for his vehicle due to the road’s surface. In a critical point, Zabas raised the issue of emergency access, noting that the only viable exit is via TRC Lane, which is obstructed by a locked gate. While officials acknowledged having a key, Zabas contended that this solution is inadequate in emergencies, stressing, “the key is not acceptable.”

Christina Gon, another resident, reinforced Zabas’s concerns, sharing a personal incident where a downed tree on the road prevented her from leaving home, disrupting her travel plans. She called for urgent repairs, citing the road as “destroyed” and blamed heavy vehicles for exacerbating the damage. Additional residents echoed these sentiments, expressing frustration over the locked gate’s hindrance to both residents and emergency services. One resident argued against the perceived privatization of the road, insisting it should remain accessible due to its historical usage and decrying the township’s neglect in addressing substantial access issues while enforcing minor regulations on residents.

The road condition discussion dominated the meeting, with council members acknowledging the gravity of the situation. Public sentiment was in favor of immediate action to rectify the hazardous conditions on Los Hollow Road.

In addition to this heated topic, the council discussed funding and developments for several municipal projects. Stonehenge Drive, from Buckley Hill to Red School Lane, is set to undergo improvements following a completed survey in December, with design work commencing soon. Funding for playground enhancements, particularly phase two of improvements at Lopatcong Park, was also a priority, with the council authorizing an application for a grant from the New Jersey Department of Community Affairs.

0:00The meeting also included the council’s routine reorganization, with three councilmen—Rich McQuade, Scott Marinelli, and Lukaro—being sworn in. The council swiftly moved through a series of resolutions, including the establishment of a cash management program and a service contract for deer carcass removal at a rate of $35 per carcass. Additionally, they approved a temporary municipal budget and scheduled multiple special meetings to address various municipal issues, including an affordable housing dispute resolution program.

The council members took a moment to express gratitude to the community for their electoral support, reiterating their commitment to serving the town and emphasizing collaborative efforts to address ongoing challenges, such as property tax concerns and new development planning. Reflecting on community activities, members highlighted a successful Santa visit at the fire station, organized by the recreation committee, and discussed future meetings with the LAA regarding sports fields for the upcoming season.

On the topic of recreational facilities, the council discussed the demolition of the existing pool and the construction of new amenities, with interest from contractors and a timeline set for the bidding process. Plans for pickleball courts near the pool are underway, with minor revisions needed to accommodate parking and walkways. The council expressed hope that the courts would be ready by late spring or early summer.

17:54Lastly, the status of Comcast’s expansion into Breakley Gardens was addressed, with resident Mr. Betts inquiring about installation progress. Township officials acknowledged that while some neighborhoods had transitioned to the new service, others awaited completion. They assured follow-ups on the matter, with Mr. Betts offering assistance for future council needs.