01:14:44The council revisited the contentious topic of cannabis zoning regulations, particularly the distance requirements for cannabis establishments from surrounding properties. The current ordinance mandates a 250-foot distance from the front door of a cannabis business. However, this provision sparked debate among council members. One member argued for increasing the distance to 1,000 feet, citing concerns about the proximity of these businesses to residential areas and family-oriented zones. This member suggested that longer distances would provide better control over the potential impact of cannabis establishments on the community. On the other hand, another council member supported the existing regulation, emphasizing that proposals must still undergo scrutiny by the zoning or planning board, allowing residents to express concerns.

The council has limited the number of cannabis retail locations to three, with existing resolutions of support for specific sites in place. However, if a resolution expires, applicants are required to reapply and go through the review process again.

20:46In addition to zoning, the meeting addressed longstanding flooding issues affecting residents on Thomas Avenue and other areas. Residents detailed how persistent flooding has degraded their properties, with one resident describing the severe overflow during heavy rains as akin to “Niagara Falls.” The council acknowledged these concerns, noting previous engineering efforts in 2019 aimed at addressing the inadequate capacity of existing stormwater pipes. Despite these efforts, cost estimates ranging from $13,000 to $30,000 halted further action. The discussion suggested the potential need for additional piping to manage the flow, though this solution presents logistical and financial challenges due to existing utilities.

01:21:40The council considered a comprehensive mapping of the township’s stormwater system to better understand the current infrastructure and address flooding issues. A proposal to map the system in quadrants, rather than all at once, was suggested to manage costs effectively. Understanding pipe sizes and drainage areas is essential for planning future roadwork and infrastructure improvements.

16:22The council also discussed a proposal from Mix Herford, representing a coalition advocating for transgender rights, to issue a proclamation recognizing Transgender Day of Visibility on March 31st. Herford emphasized the importance of visibility for transgender individuals, particularly in light of the current political climate. The proposal was supported by Cheryl Dakan Heim, a resident who echoed the need for the community to demonstrate inclusivity and support for the LGBTQ+ community. The council agreed to the proclamation, aligning Maple Shade with other municipalities that have taken similar actions.

02:42Other notable topics included the introduction and first reading of two ordinances. Ordinance number 20253 authorized the private sale of township-owned land to a property owner, passing with unanimous approval. The second ordinance, number 2025 d04, aimed to exceed municipal budget appropriation limits and establish a cap bank, but faced dissent from one council member. Additionally, the introduction of the 2025 Municipal Budget was discussed, passing with another dissenting vote.

07:22The council also addressed a proposal by Christine Nutlin to revive the Maple Shade sidewalk sale, a community event that drew significant attendance in the past but ended in 2022 due to COVID-19. Nutlin proposed organizing a smaller-scale event for 2026, emphasizing the event’s historical significance and community pride.

47:15In infrastructure discussions, the council considered the renewal of a stormwater discharge general permit authorization, which includes mapping all stormwater infrastructure and submitting an inventory report. The need for video inspection to assess the condition of pipes, particularly at problematic locations like Cutler Avenue, was highlighted. The council acknowledged the complexities of addressing these issues, especially with pipes running beneath private property.

55:02Traffic concerns were another focal point, with discussions on hiring a traffic engineer to analyze volume at specific intersections, such as Fork Landing and High and Fernwood. The necessity of conducting warrant analyses to determine the appropriateness of stop signs based on factors such as crash history was emphasized.

01:02:02The meeting concluded with updates from the Business and Economic Development Commission, which outlined goals to preserve the town’s character while promoting growth. Recent sustainable community initiatives, like the opening of a community garden, were also noted, along with a proposal to rename Father Nolan Field in honor of Kenny Carter Jr., with an ordinance suggested to formalize naming rights.