53:26One of the most notable issues during the meeting was the public’s concern over fire hydrant maintenance following a tragic fire that claimed the lives of two children. Residents emphasized the urgency of addressing the city’s infrastructure deficiencies, particularly the maintenance and availability of functional fire hydrants. Concerns were raised about the lack of proper record-keeping for hydrant inspections, with no records found from 2020 and prior years, except for 2014. The council acknowledged these gaps and discussed the legal requirement for annual hydrant inspections, as well as the importance of keeping records for at least twelve years. The integration of modern technology, like GPS coordinates and pressure readings, was proposed to enhance emergency response operations.

36:14The public comments section saw several residents voicing their frustrations and calling for accountability. Mike Gold, a long-term resident, highlighted the dire consequences of missing hydrants, specifically mentioning an absent hydrant on Fifth and Railroad. He stressed the need for proper maintenance and availability of water access during emergencies. Tamira, a new resident, urged the city to improve crisis management and implement better inspection systems to prevent future tragedies. Residents like Sean Tho and Tim Cardi demanded transparency and systematic improvements to ensure community safety, emphasizing the critical role of functional infrastructure.

01:02:18In response to these concerns, some council members expressed the necessity of addressing infrastructure issues and ensuring compliance with mandated maintenance protocols. Discussions included proposals for flushing hydrants located at dead ends of water mains and implementing more rigorous testing and documentation practices.

00:54The meeting also focused on the Route 47 and Henderson Road Safety Project presented by the New Jersey Department of Transportation (DOT). This project aims to improve pedestrian and bicycle safety, enhance intersection functionality, and ensure ADA compliance. It has been in the preliminary engineering phase, with construction anticipated to begin in early 2029. The council was invited to provide feedback, particularly regarding the Vine Street crossing, which will remain open following community discussions. The project also aims to address stormwater management and regulatory compliance, with cooperation expected from South Jersey for ongoing improvements to intersecting areas like High Street.

25:27In addition to infrastructure concerns, the council approved several budget resolutions, including the introduction of the 2025 municipal budget. However, this raised public concerns about potential tax increases. Glenn Perea, a community member, questioned the lack of discussion on the budget resolution and urged the council to utilize surplus funds from recent property sales to prevent further tax hikes. The decision to table a shared services agreement with the sheriff’s department also sparked debate, with some council members expressing the need for more involvement and clarity on fund allocation.

17:03The council expressed gratitude for the interim clerks and excitement over the appointment of Emily Dylan as the new city clerk for a three-year term.