The proposed housing ordinance, which seeks to amend the township code by adding a housing code, was met with strong resistance from residents who packed the council meeting to voice their concerns. The ordinance’s inspection requirements became a focal point of contention, with many fearing they could lead to increased costs for homeowners and complicate real estate transactions. Karen Mrangelo, a resident of Overbrook Avenue, expressed her opposition, highlighting how past meetings had shown community resistance. She questioned the public access to reports generated from housing inspections and the potential impact on homeowners’ insurance.

Deborah Simon, another resident, echoed these concerns, urging the council to reconsider the ordinance’s urgency and questioning the rationale behind its proposed implementation in January 2026. Simon emphasized the importance of listening to the community, referencing past instances where resident voices were overlooked. The council faced mounting pressure to address these concerns, as several attendees supported the opposition.

Landlord Rose Young and realtor Walder “Bud” Krnowski further criticized the ordinance. Young highlighted logistical challenges and financial strains posed by the proposed inspections, while Krnowski noted the unnecessary stress and potential delays such inspections could introduce into real estate transactions. He argued that the township had operated effectively without such requirements for decades.

Robert Turner, another resident, specifically targeted the ordinance’s sidewalk inspection component, arguing that the proposed standards were too restrictive. He suggested a more lenient approach and a voluntary program for sidewalk installations. Meanwhile, a local real estate attorney named Dave raised concerns about the ordinance’s impact on senior citizens, who might struggle to afford necessary repairs, and questioned the need for additional staffing to manage the increased workload from inspections.

While some acknowledged the need for safety and compliance, many highlighted the ordinance’s practical implications on property values and transactions.

Amid the ordinance debate, the council also addressed various other community matters. The meeting featured a proclamation honoring Kenneth “Kenny” Ker Jr. by dedicating a portion of Buttonwood Avenue as “Kenny Ker Jr. Way.” This gesture was meant to honor Ker’s contributions to the community and encourage residents to remember his legacy.

In addition to community tributes, the council discussed the Best Practices Inventory, a state-required assessment of municipal finances and operations. Maple Shade scored 41.5 out of 70 points, securing $1.7 million in state aid. This achievement highlighted the collaborative effort behind the inventory’s completion, which is essential for municipal financial health.

Public health concerns were also addressed during the Board of Health report, which noted unsanitary conditions in a multi-dwelling unit, a dog bite incident, and issues related to stagnant water in a poorly maintained pool. A new retail food establishment received a compliance report.

In infrastructure updates, the council discussed the North Terrace project, which involves installing a water main and storm piping to manage sump pump discharge. This project, set to commence next year, marks the first of its kind in the township, with a follow-up NJDOT-funded repaving project planned.

The police report highlighted community engagement efforts, such as a successful food drive and ongoing investigations into a cold case homicide.

Transparency and communication within the council were also debated, with members discussing the handling of activity reports and private meetings. Concerns were raised over the lack of open dialogue and the need for all discussions to occur in public meetings. The township manager defended the current system, emphasizing the importance of keeping council members informed through activity reports.

The meeting concluded with discussions on scheduling future council meetings and a resolution opposing Senate Bill S4736, which would allow religious and nonprofit organizations to bypass local planning procedures for development projects.