One of the most notable developments was the township’s successful completion of the state-mandated best practices inventory questionnaire. The presentation, led by a representative named Andy, highlighted that Maple Shade achieved a score of 42 out of 69, surpassing the minimum required score of 35 to qualify for full state aid. This accomplishment secures the township’s entire $1.7 million state aid allotment. The questionnaire, which included 52 scored questions, was divided into core competencies and best practices. Core competencies focused on statutory and regulatory compliance critical for sound municipal finance and operations, while best practices related to beneficial fiscal and operational strategies for municipalities. Andy expressed gratitude towards the township manager, department heads, and staff who contributed to this achievement.

The council also introduced and discussed several ordinances. Ordinance 2024-20 aimed to amend the Township Code concerning fire prevention, specifically addressing open-air burning and recreational fires. The council set the publication date for November 14, 2024, and scheduled a public hearing for December 12, 2024. Another ordinance, 2024-19, focused on amending land use procedure publication decisions and was adopted unanimously after no public comments were made.

The meeting addressed concerns about the fire department’s response times. A council member clarified a previous statement regarding the volunteer fire department’s night call responses, emphasizing the challenges volunteers face and the need for sleeping quarters to ensure adequate nighttime coverage. The council member noted that the potential sleeping quarters area remains inaccessible to the township due to its current use, raising concerns about legality and insurance.

Public safety was a topic, especially in light of a significant wildfire in Evesham Township. A council member highlighted the importance of caution, noting that the fire had grown to over 200 acres, resulting in evacuations. The council reiterated the prohibition on outdoor wood or charcoal burning, permitting only contained fires fueled by propane, natural gas, or electricity.

The council reviewed several site plan applications, including a proposal from Eastern Lift Truck to expand into a new storage building, a laser crafting business set to occupy a former Methodist Church site, and plans for a toy store on North Fork Landing Road. Additionally, a compounding pharmacy’s application to move into a former bank site was discussed, with operations primarily conducted through mail order to limit vehicle traffic.

Community events and announcements were also a focal point. The mayor announced a Veterans Day service on November 11 at the war memorial, urging community attendance. A health fair is scheduled for November 15 at the municipal building, and the League of Municipalities conference will occur from November 19 to 21, potentially causing office closures. The mayor expressed gratitude to various departments and staff, offering condolences for the recent passing of Frank Troso, a former councilman and mayor.

The council also discussed the Department of Community Affairs’ requirement for the township to provide 78 housing units as part of fair share obligations. A meeting with legal and planning advisors concluded with plans to explore existing locations to potentially add units to reduce the required number.