The Environmental Commission’s proposal to eliminate landscaper registration fees was a point of discussion. The current fee structure includes a $200 registration fee per business, with a reduced fee of $50 for those utilizing electric leaf blowers. This fee structure aims to promote environmentally friendly practices and offset administrative costs. However, the council expressed openness to waiving the fee, especially for the first year, to alleviate the financial burden on landscapers and encourage compliance.

Additionally, the council considered the Environmental Commission’s recommendation to explore acquiring the old Exxon station for conversion into a pocket park. This idea was already under consideration.

The meeting also delved deeply into stormwater management, with the council unanimously approving Ordinance 725-25, which revises stormwater control regulations. The new regulations double the requirements for stormwater runoff quantity and recharge standards for non-residential major developments and redevelopment projects, as well as certain aspects of residential projects. This ordinance aims to address the township’s long-standing stormwater issues, a concern echoed by residents during the public comment period. A resident expressed support for the ordinance, viewing it as a step toward managing the township’s stormwater challenges.

Flood mitigation was another pressing topic, with council members acknowledging the need for equipment to study flooding issues effectively. Although there was support for pursuing funding for necessary equipment, the absence of an official memo from the flood mitigation committee detailing their requests was noted as a hindrance to progress. The council agreed on the importance of having a detailed proposal from the flood mitigation committee for review at the next meeting.

The council devoted attention to the township’s health insurance broker procurement process, which was executed as a flat fee rather than a percentage of premiums. This approach aligns with best practices and enabled the township to maintain its AAA rating. However, it was noted that future larger expenses would require adherence to a more rigorous procurement process.

In terms of housing, the council discussed ongoing negotiations related to the township’s fair housing obligations. Updates on the township’s energy aggregation program were provided. Future participation in an aggregation program would necessitate a new ordinance and community discussions.

Public comments highlighted various concerns, including compliance with lead paint regulations for rental properties built before 1978. The township plans to issue a concessionaire’s bid to ensure residents have access to necessary lead-safe certifications, recognizing this as an area requiring further attention.

Another resident raised concerns regarding the landscaper registration requirements, questioning whether landscapers still need to register without incurring a fee. The council clarified the fee structure and discussed the possibility of waiving fees for the first year, alongside potential ordinance changes for future adjustments.

The meeting also touched upon the Special Improvement District (SID), with plans to include discussions on the SID subcommittee’s findings in the next town council meeting agenda. The council acknowledged the challenges posed by ongoing lawsuits surrounding the SID and emphasized the need for transparency regarding these issues.

A presentation from Explore Millburn Short Hills provided an overview of the organization’s achievements and plans for 2026. The presentation highlighted milestones such as major events and the activation of Town Hall Plaza as a community space. The organization emphasized its support for over 520 businesses and 160 properties across five commercial districts. Key performance indicators, such as a storefront commercial vacancy rate of 3.9% and an increase in parking meter revenue to $360,000, were presented.

The presentation also outlined the organization’s budget process for 2026, which involves reviews and workshops. The budget will be forwarded to the Township Committee for introduction and a final vote in December. The budget proposal includes initiatives such as rebranding efforts, modernization of the town website, and seasonal plantings. Upcoming projects include pursuing “Film Ready New Jersey” certification and conducting a regional economic comparison study.

As the meeting concluded, the council addressed concerns about ongoing litigation and the handling of municipal matters. Discussions regarding the abandoned properties ordinance were also noted, with the council clarifying provisions for maintaining the aesthetic quality of abandoned commercial properties. The council acknowledged pending legislation affecting properties owned by religious institutions, which could lead to a loss of local control over zoning regarding affordable housing. Plans were made to introduce a resolution opposing the legislation in the upcoming meeting.