Mayor Newman used the platform of his last meeting to express deep gratitude toward his colleagues, township staff, and the community. He reflected on budget challenges faced due to reduced state aid. Despite these challenges, he proudly highlighted the township’s accomplishments during his administration. The Mayor extended thanks to his fellow council members, specifically acknowledging Curtis T. Corson for his political guidance and Victor W. Nappen II, who is set to assume a role. He also recognized Deputy Mayor Kimberly R. Hayes for her unwavering support, despite her absence from the meeting.

In his farewell remarks, Mayor Newman commended the township staff for their professionalism and dedication, singling out Township Clerk Joan Heron and CFO Bar Bloody for their exceptional contributions. He expressed appreciation for Engineer Ran McNeel and Mr. Monzo for their legal expertise, which helped the township avoid legal pitfalls. Newman also thanked Garo, whose leadership improved staff morale and efficiency, and Tony, whose insightful correspondence often went beyond township matters. The Mayor underscored the importance of public safety efforts, which have maintained and even enhanced the township’s image, and he praised Public Works for their excellence.

As part of his farewell, Mayor Newman shared light-heartedly about the new phase of life he and his wife, Fran, will enter following her final meeting after 23 years on the Upper Township School Board. He expressed plans for future endeavors, including a mission trip to Western Africa that he had previously declined.

The meeting continued with a focus on various agenda items. Notably, an item involving a resolution was removed due to unresolved issues, highlighting ongoing negotiations and discussions. There was a emphasis on grant opportunities, including a Recreation Improvement Grant for community enhancements and a municipal resilience action plan, with potential funding up to $750,000 for habitat restoration and coastal resilience projects.

A notable moment emerged when the council discussed memorializing a local youth who had recently passed away. While there was support for dedicating funds for a memorial, some members hesitated to classify it as a recreation-related expense, prompting further deliberation on its appropriateness within the budget.

Public comments added another layer to the meeting, with residents expressing gratitude towards the Mayor for his service. A issue raised by a resident, Natalie, concerned water contamination in Beasley’s Point. The council responded that the matter had been transferred to the Attorney General’s office, with assurances that recent tests showed clear results. The council expressed the limitation of their current knowledge pending the investigation’s conclusion.

John Brittain, representing Upper Township Public Safety and the EMS Department, expressed appreciation for the Mayor’s support, which he credited as instrumental in their effective operations. The committee further recognized Mayor Newman for his lifetime commitment to public service, culminating in a motion to honor him, which was met with applause.

In subsequent agenda items, the council discussed hiring Mayor Newman as a part-time employee in the Upper Township Division of Emergency Medical Services. This move aimed to strengthen staff without increasing full-time positions, and the motion passed without objection. The committee also addressed a waiver request for delinquent property taxes, ultimately deciding against it to avoid setting a precedent.

The meeting concluded with a resolution to enter an executive session focused on personnel matters, EMS billing contract negotiations, and a Safe Routes to School grant. This resolution ensured transparency, with anticipated disclosures upon the conclusion of discussions.