The most notable issue at the meeting was the newly mandated tree protection ordinance, which demands that municipalities oversee tree removal requests on private properties. This regulation requires homeowners to notify the township before removing trees, with exemptions only for damaged, diseased, or invasive species. Homeowners can remove up to three trees annually without replacement, but any removal beyond this limit necessitates replanting or payment into a municipal trust fund. The funds would cover administrative costs and potential tree planting projects.

The council expressed frustration with the state’s decision to place the financial burden of implementing the ordinance on local taxpayers. The lack of state funding for hiring certified tree experts to assess removal requests is a concern. A council member highlighted the financial implications, noting, “The taxpayers of Middletown are now going to have to pay for what 40 members of the Senate said.” The ordinance’s expected cost of upwards of $1,800 for removing a significant tree could complicate home improvement projects and exacerbate the housing affordability crisis.

Potential neighbor disputes and increased enforcement responsibilities were also discussed, with concerns that residents might report unlawful tree removals. This could require the township to keep detailed records of removals, even when exemptions apply. The council anticipated a flood of complaints from vigilant residents. The subjective nature of assessing whether a tree is hazardous was another point of contention, with members worried about potential dissatisfaction from homeowners.

The council acknowledged the necessity of implementing the ordinance but expressed a desire to minimize its impact on residents and administrative resources. A resident, Don Watson, voiced concerns about new homeowners cutting down trees without justification, citing environmental consequences such as soil erosion. Watson emphasized the need for a notification system to deter unnecessary tree cutting.

In addition to the tree ordinance, the council discussed the introduction of stricter stormwater management regulations aimed at improving water quality control. These regulations ensure stormwater is treated before entering streams and groundwater. While not seen as overly burdensome, they represent an enhancement to existing standards. The council noted these changes would impact how planning and zoning boards handle applications, requiring engineers to ensure compliance with updated design standards.

The meeting also included the recognition of the Middletown Little League Intermediate All-Stars. Mayor Tony Perry expressed pride in the team’s achievements as District 19 and Section 3 Little League champions and their second-place finish in the state tournament. The Mayor stressed the importance of acknowledging the athletes, coaches, and parents for their contributions to the team’s success. Certificates and a banner were presented to the team.

The council approved proclamations designating October 2024 as Breast Cancer Awareness Month and Substance Use Prevention Month in Middletown.

Lastly, the council introduced proposed ordinances, including a $100,000 expenditure for unspecified purposes and a purchase agreement with the Richard J. Stavola Family Trust for property acquisition for open space preservation. These introductions were procedural, with public hearings scheduled for later dates.