Mayor Calamari’s presentation of flowers to the council members kicked off the council’s proceedings. Councilwoman Stacy Feeney reciprocated the gesture with gratitude, acknowledging the challenges and successes they had experienced together over the past four years. She expressed pride in their accomplishments and thanked her colleagues and family for their support.

The meeting then delved into pragmatic matters, with Township Administrator Mark DiCarlo providing updates on various ongoing township projects. The news that the township was not selected for the 2023 Drug-Free Community Support Program Grant was met with disappointment. However, optimism was restored when DiCarlo announced the receipt of funds for the Swim Club Park Improvement Phase 2. Despite delays in road paving due to cold weather, the township remained hopeful about future grant applications.

The public comment session offered a platform for residents to express their thoughts and concerns. Resident Lenny Sabino thanked Councilwoman Feeney and Council President Desserie Morgan for their service and contributions to the town. Another resident expressed gratitude for the council’s efforts in ensuring children’s safety during pickup and drop-off at Washington School. They also thanked Councilman Tom Sears and Steve Kish for their participation in placing reefs on the graves of fallen soldiers and Marines at West Point.

The residents also raised concerns about new traffic patterns, school expansion plans, and the town’s capital expenditure plan for 2024. Mayor Calamari assured that the traffic plan would be addressed after the holidays and the capital expenditure plan would be presented to the council by the end of February with public visibility.

Another resident expressed worry about tree maintenance, arguing that utility work was negatively impacting tree appearance. Councilman Sears and Mayor Calamari acknowledged the concern, noting efforts to address tree pruning by reaching out to the state and considering potential changes to the town’s ordinance.

The meeting also saw the passing of notable resolution number 23375, authorizing the second reading and opening of the public hearing for ordinance number 23-13. This ordinance pertains to the rate of clothing allowance for officers and firefighters of the fire department for 2023. Another ordinance discussed was number 23-17, which aims to establish requirements for tree removal and replacement in the township to reduce soil erosion and protect the environment.

The council concluded the meeting with a discussion about the upcoming zoning board appointments, the potential outreach to current board members to inquire about their interest in returning, and plans to solicit new applicants. It was noted that no applications had been received at that point. The council also addressed administrative matters, such as the zoning board appointments and the outreach to current members.