The most notable issue of the evening revolved around Ordinance 2715-25, which proposed new regulations for non-residential developments in residential neighborhoods, particularly affecting houses of worship. Public comment revealed deep concern among residents regarding the perceived targeting of religious institutions. A resident highlighted potential discrimination, questioning why these regulations appeared to single out the Orthodox Jewish community, stating, “I was told that this is not an act of vengeance or hate… But it sure feels like they’re being singled out.” This sentiment was echoed by several attendees who feared that the ordinance would place undue burdens on religious entities, hindering their ability to serve the community.

In response to these concerns, a council member clarified that the ordinance’s passage was not assured and emphasized the importance of further revising the draft with input from a planner. The ordinance was subsequently tabled to allow for additional modifications. This decision was met with appreciation from representatives of the Wyoming Presbyterian Church and others who had proactively engaged with the council about their concerns.

Another focal point of the meeting was the historic designation of the Paper Mill Playhouse and Taylor Park. The council moved forward with adopting ordinances designating these sites as historic landmarks. The Paper Mill Playhouse’s executive director raised concerns about the lack of prior notification and the potential impact on lease agreements, urging the township committee to engage in discussions to clarify the implications of the designation. Despite these concerns, the ordinance passed with a majority vote.

Public comments also addressed the potential health risks associated with the installation of 5G cell towers in residential areas. A resident voiced frustration over insufficient public notification about the installations, arguing that the proximity of the towers could pose health risks. They criticized the township’s lack of responsiveness to requests for information since 2022 and called for a commission to investigate these concerns. A council member responded, asserting the necessity of balancing public safety needs with community concerns, and emphasized the reduced radiation emissions from the small cells compared to traditional towers.

Several speakers criticized the council for not adequately informing the public about the ordinances and their potential impacts. A proposal was made to improve public access to information by adding links to the agenda in the mayor’s weekly message, a suggestion that was well-received by the council.

The discussion also touched on ordinances concerning rooftop HVAC systems, accessory buildings, and lighting standards. The council moved forward with prohibiting rooftop HVAC mechanical units and clarifying regulations for accessory structures. New lighting standards were introduced to apply township-wide, mandating plans for all development applications. These measures aim to enhance environmental policies and ensure clarity for developers, aligning with similar regulations in neighboring towns.