The council laid out a plan to address the town’s sewer system challenges, which have come under scrutiny by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The township has been ordered to manage excess flows that have been impacting the system. In response, the council discussed a series of measures, including flow monitoring, sewer televising, and pinpointing sources of extraneous flows such as sump pumps. A significant infrastructure issue was identified at the Main Street Pump Station, which suffered blowouts during heavy rain events. Replacement of the impacted sewer line is in the works, with efforts to secure funding for future phases of the project ongoing.

The infrastructure theme continued with discussions on the town’s water system, as new regulations have prompted the need for additional treatment at the water plant. The engineer mentioned that grant funding might be available to assist with the necessary upgrades. Water main breaks on County Avenue were also addressed, with updates on road projects and community development grants provided.

In terms of environmental safety, the council approved the establishment of a community garden on Collins Lane, formerly an apple orchard. Concerns over potential pesticide residue prompted discussions about soil testing, estimated to cost $7,000. Sustainable Maple Shades was identified as a potential grant funding source for the testing, and the council considered reaching out for additional quotes on the testing.

Moving on to fiscal matters, the proposed 2024 budget presentation outlined a modest increase in the local municipal tax rate. The 1.3% hike is anticipated to equate to an additional $21 for the average home valued at $161,000. The council emphasized the inclusion of funds for hiring replacement staff across various departments due to retirements and resignations while maintaining all current services and even adding some new ones. Inflation’s impact on expenses, such as landfill, solid waste, and utility costs, was cited as a contributing factor to the budget increase.

Despite the financial challenges posed by inflation, the council members took pride in the budget’s balance of fiscal responsibility with the maintenance of essential services. They highlighted the success in managing costs through negotiations with the Department of Public Works (DPW) and suppliers. The result was a manageable increase in costs for services such as trash pickup, with the DPW contract experiencing only a 6% increase last year and a 5.5% increase this year. The council also celebrated the turnaround in dog license revenues, which saw a significant rise due to improved communication and outreach efforts.

The council’s financial acumen extended to efforts in addressing deficits in recreational funding and the need for infrastructure improvements. They discussed applying for federal discretionary grants to support these improvements. Additionally, the replacement of lead water service lines was discussed, with the township utilizing funds from the NJI Bank and the potential for principal amount forgiveness for these funds.

The meeting also included resolutions such as the appointment of a Zoning Board member alternate, authorizing engineering services for food bank renovations, and approving a beer garden for the Maple Shade Youth Football Association. The expenditure lists for the Current Fund, Utility Fund, and Grant Fund received council approval.

Public comments brought forward resident concerns about the future use of the rescue squad building, the proposed parking lot’s location, and inquiries regarding the fire department’s relocation. A council member addressed the concerns, urging residents to directly contact the council and the manager for information rather than relying on social media.

The meeting, which was live-streamed on YouTube, also saw the council defending against rumors of illegal medical benefits received by council members. They clarified the purpose of the tall fence at Steinhauer School as a children’s safety measure, discussed the behavior of young firefighters post-duty, and the need to support them properly.