The most pressing topic at the meeting was the comprehensive report on affordable housing, particularly the proposals to relocate the Department of Public Works (DPW) site from N Main Street to accommodate new affordable and workforce housing units. The township’s planner, Graham T, explained that the DPW site posed problems including contamination levels and potential impacts on New Jersey Transit. The proposed alternative sites, Lot 19 and Lot 9, would respectively support the development of 29 affordable family houses plus 14 workforce housing units, and 67 units including 46 affordable family units and 21 workforce units.

The council expressed reservations about the special master’s report, which recommended proceeding with the development on N Main Street for 75 affordable units. The council’s concerns about relocating the DPW site were based on emergency response times, traffic, flood plains, and the overall quality of life. During the public comment period, residents voiced their unease with both the proposed development and the mediation process. The ownership and potential historic designation of the Fandango Dam and Pond were also points of contention, with residents advocating for its preservation.

One resident questioned the township’s litigation choices over mediation, prompting the mayor to clarify the process and assure that the Historic Preservation Committee would address the delay in historic districting. There was also a call for an investigation into professional misconduct over a separate housing development report, highlighting the need for transparency in the town’s affairs.

The creation of a Crime and Public Safety Advisory Board was another topic of note. The proposed board would focus on enhancing public safety and community well-being through collaborative and data-driven efforts. Concerns regarding the potential for overlap with the Pedestrian Safety Committee were noted, emphasizing the importance of coordination between committees.

Debate also arose around the suggestion to form a Citizen Budget Advisory Committee. While some saw the potential benefits of community members with financial expertise assisting on budget matters, others questioned the necessity of yet another committee, proposing instead public sessions for community involvement in the long-term capital planning.

The proposition to establish a Charter Study Commission to consider a move to a nonpartisan form of government sparked an engaging debate. The commission would review the governance structure, aiming for a system that fosters transparency, accountability, and community unity. Discussions touched on the need for a primary system in nonpartisan elections and the potential impact of such a change on the political climate. Public input on the formation of the commission was a point of contention, with some residents advocating for a referendum to allow the community to have a direct say.

The meeting also addressed issues such as road maintenance, the management of the DPW, and the role and impact of the Special Improvement District (SID) on local businesses. The executive director of the Paper Mill theater updated the council on upcoming performances.