The council approved Ordinance 2024-4B, which allocates $3,140,000 for capital improvements in 2024. This includes $445,900 from grants and the issuance of $2,565,600 in bonds. The ordinance faced no public opposition and was adopted unanimously. Another ordinance, 2024-15, was also approved, appropriating $3 million for utility improvements, with a grant of $850,000 and $2,475,000 in bonds. During the public hearing, a resident inquired about the enhancements to the water supply for fire protection, which were confirmed to be part of the ordinance’s scope.

A reappropriation ordinance, 2024-16, involving $2,514,341.50 for capital and utility projects, was also adopted without public comment. These ordinances collectively aim to address infrastructure needs, including water mains, sewer systems, and roadway restorations.

A notable resolution in support of amendments to Paul’s Law was also adopted. This law seeks to enhance safety training for law enforcement. The council acknowledged the advocacy efforts of Colleen and Paul, who were present at the meeting, emphasizing the importance of mandatory retraining every two years to maintain up-to-date safety protocols.

Community engagement was a central theme, with discussions about various upcoming events. Jo Mortimer, representing Main Street Maple Shade, advocated for the closure of Main Street during the holiday festival scheduled for December 14. Mortimer clarified that the festival is not a fundraiser and highlighted the financial loss incurred in 2023. She stressed the importance of the event for community engagement and safety, urging the council to support the street closure to protect attendees, particularly children.

The council also considered the utilization of reserve policemen, with a participant suggesting the inclusion of retired officers or school personnel to assist during events, potentially saving costs. The township had allocated $4,000 to support Main Street events in 2023, pending the submission of receipts for reimbursement. The council expressed readiness to cover police costs and support roadway closures despite the absence of a full parade.

Councilman Charles Kauffman emphasized the importance of civic engagement and voting, highlighting key dates for voter registration and early voting for the upcoming presidential election. He urged residents to familiarize themselves with the new voting machines to avoid complications on election day. Practice machines would be available at the local mall every Saturday leading up to the election.

The Police Chief provided updates on several community initiatives. The “Custer with a Cop” event on August 29 was successful, attracting several hundred attendees who enjoyed snacks and received backpacks. The Chief also reported increased police presence around schools during drop-off and pick-up times to ensure safety. A concerning report on peeping incidents at the Fox Meow apartment complex led to the arrest of an individual responsible for multiple incidents, with commendations given to Sergeant Turner and Officer O’Connor for their efforts.

The council discussed the proposed closure of Main Street, with the Mayor indicating that discussions were ongoing and the item would be included in the next meeting’s agenda once all numbers were confirmed. Financial updates revealed that reappropriated funds dating back to 2009 would contribute to significant capital projects, including refurbishing jail cells and addressing stormwater infrastructure.

Site plans under review included a residential home variance on Martin Avenue, the conversion of a vacant unit in the Acme shopping center into a dance studio, and the development of a large catering facility by the Palace of Asia owners. Plans for a cannabis dispensary at the former K Bridal store location were also discussed.

The meeting addressed solid waste management, with bid specifications for collection in progress and an extension of the current waste collector’s contract for one more year due to satisfactory performance.

The reacquisition of the Huntsman site on Route 73 by P O R USA was discussed, with the new owners addressing open violations in collaboration with the State Fire Marshal. The council expressed a desire to meet with the new owners to foster cooperation.