Mayor Dean Dafis opened the session acknowledging the hybrid nature of the meeting and the last session for 2023, welcoming both in-person and online attendees. The meeting saw the appointment of Mr. Andrew Howell to the environmental advisory committee, followed by the first public comment period.

During the public comment period, the community expressed differing views on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. One community member urged the committee to recognize the efforts being made to acknowledge Arabs and Muslims in their community. Others expressed support for a ceasefire, citing humanitarian concerns. However, not all views aligned, with some community members expressing opposition to these views.

The meeting also acknowledged a recent resolution condemning anti-Semitism and Islamophobia, recognizing the constitutional rights to freedom of expression and assembly. Concerns were raised about the rise of anti-Semitism and the need to address such issues within the community.

A member of the public expressed concerns about the portrayal of the slogan “From the river to the sea, Palestine will be free,” stating that it is not inherently anti-Semitic and has deep roots in Palestinian culture. The speaker urged the Township Committee to affirm the rights of freedom of speech and assembly. Another community member, Nada Alabi, shared her personal connection to the situation in Gaza, advocating for a ceasefire. She highlighted the impact of the conflict on families and urged the council to consider the human cost of the ongoing violence.

Community members also voiced local concerns, including the need for clear signage for large vehicles and enforcement of parking regulations. In response, the council members discussed the possibility of adopting ordinances to prohibit trucks of a certain size from entering specific neighborhoods.

The meeting saw the introduction of the new Township Attorney and the approval of a Community Host Agreement for Bud and Leaf Delivery LLC, a cannabis delivery applicant. Viia Jackson, the applicant, expressed appreciation for the approval and shared her alignment with the values reflected in the agreement.

The council also discussed the potential for adjusting pool fees in 2024 to make the facility more accessible to all residents. Deputy Mayor Deborah Engel and Victor De Luca proposed a gradual reduction in fees over the next few years, aiming to keep the pool as a separate utility while eliminating the self-support mandate.

The meeting ended with a tribute to Victor DeLuca for his work in affordable housing and the construction of the Library. Mayor Dean Dafis expressed gratitude for their accomplishments and friendship.