Traffic enforcement was at the forefront of the meeting, with community members and officials expressing the need for stricter measures to ensure road safety. There was widespread concern about aggressive driving behaviors, as highlighted by an incident involving a disabled woman in a wheelchair who was disregarded by a driver in a crosswalk. The Chief of Police acknowledged these concerns and reported a recent uptick in vehicle stops, radar summons, and warning notices. However, council members pointed out that moving violations had decreased, sparking a debate about the effectiveness of current enforcement strategies. Some members advocated for clearer directives to increase ticket issuance, while the Chief emphasized the importance of balancing community expectations with operational realities.

The Chief also updated the council on police vacancies and recruitment efforts. Applications for police testing were open, with the actual test scheduled for early April. With two current vacancies and a possible third by year-end, the process includes a physical fitness test following a written exam, with top candidates receiving immediate interviews. Certified officers from other departments are exempt from the written and physical tests, allowing for a more streamlined hiring process. Additionally, crime statistics for January showed a reduction in burglaries and auto thefts, attributed in part to community education efforts. A dedicated walking officer was noted for engaging with local businesses, further supporting crime prevention efforts.

Parking regulations were another significant topic, with discussions focusing on the perceived inequities in parking arrangements for residents of certain apartments without designated spots. Concerns were raised about inconsistencies in parking fees and permits, with some residents receiving free parking while others paid for it. The council highlighted the need for consistency across parking permits and fees, noting disparities in charges at different locations, such as the Woodland and other village lots. It was proposed that residents of the Maplewood Village Condominium Association, who currently lease parking spaces at a nominal fee, should obtain permits through the clerk’s office to standardize fees and mitigate complications arising from leasing public space to private entities.

Traffic management around local schools also drew attention, particularly the middle school drop-off traffic. A proposal was discussed to temporarily designate certain streets as one-way during peak drop-off times, with the Chief of Police endorsing the plan. Coordination with the Department of Public Works for appropriate signage and communication with parents through the Parent-Teacher Association was emphasized to ensure cohesive messaging. The council also revisited the high school drop-off situation, considering potential modifications to traffic patterns to maintain clear bike lanes and ensure safety during busy school hours.

The police department’s outreach efforts include programs like “Coffee with a Cop,” aimed at engaging community members in informal settings. The department also highlighted their participation in organized health fairs and collaboration with the health department to reach vulnerable populations. A new training program for chaplains was announced, aiming to integrate them more effectively into community outreach, with a formal swearing-in ceremony planned to legitimize their role.

As the meeting concluded, updates on emergency management and the collaboration between South Orange Rescue Squad and Maplewood were discussed. The need for storage space for rescue equipment was noted, with a proposal to store items at a local fire company. Additionally, Deputy Chief Malloy’s upcoming speech at a Women’s History Month event was mentioned, encouraging police participation and support.