The NAV Avenue Extension project was a point of debate. County Commissioner Joseph Celo addressed the council, explaining the financial dynamics behind the project and why Millville residents should contribute to its design costs. Celo acknowledged the $20.5 million in property taxes Millville pays to the county, arguing that the benefits of NAV Avenue would extend beyond the city, positively impacting the entire county through increased rateables. He referenced a shared service agreement, mentioning that other townships like Island, which pays more than Millville, have also contributed to similar projects. Importantly, a developer is set to cover Millville’s portion of the design costs, estimated at $400,000.

Residents raised questions and concerns about the project’s financial implications. Tim Cardi suggested a contractor design-build approach to streamline both design and construction, potentially saving money and time. He urged the council to communicate this idea to the county’s engineers and commissioners. Anthony Lower criticized the lack of clarity in the county’s presentation, expressing dissatisfaction with the limited information provided. Carol Conab strongly opposed the project, arguing that Millville should not financially support the county initiative.

Additionally, Doug Alrick, a County Commissioner from Vineland, emphasized the economic development potential of the NAV Avenue project, outlining its aim to redirect truck traffic away from the city center and onto a more efficient route. Alrick stressed the importance of cooperation between the city and county, highlighting the community-wide benefits the project could yield.

The collapsed hangar at the Millville Airport was another major topic. The council noted that the Delaware River and Bay Authority (DRBA) is responsible for maintaining the airport buildings. The engineering department detailed the building’s condition, revealing that it was stable until a column under the Boeing truss began to decay, leading to a hazardous building alert. No action was taken in the 133 days following the alert, culminating in the hangar’s collapse. The hangar, originally constructed during World War II, was deemed beyond repair, necessitating demolition.

Further discussions highlighted another nearby hangar in deteriorating condition, with significant structural issues including a gaping hole in the roof and deteriorating buttress walls. The engineering department emphasized the critical nature of building maintenance, noting that neglect could lead to severe safety risks. The council members were invited to ask questions to clarify points regarding the hangar’s condition and the actions taken by the engineering department. The sentiment throughout the discussions was one of frustration over the delays in obtaining necessary approvals from relevant authorities, such as the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) and the Army Corps of Engineers.

Public safety concerns were also addressed, particularly the rising electric bills experienced by residents. Legislators’ offices have been urged to reach out to the New Jersey Board of Public Utilities (BPU) to address these issues. The conversation also touched on the Holly City Fest, which saw increased attendance and enhanced organization from the previous year, highlighting community engagement and the success of local events.

The meeting included discussions on various ordinances and resolutions. An ordinance aimed at improving parking regulations to reserve spaces for handicapped persons was passed following a public hearing with no attendees voicing concerns. Another ordinance discussed the reappropriation of unexpended proceeds from previously issued bonds for additional water utility improvements.

Public comments included concerns about the financial aspects of the NAV Avenue project, the condition of the airport, and the need for better communication between the city and county regarding ongoing projects. Susan Williams spoke on behalf of her sister, Linda Shaw, requesting assistance in relocating her sister to a more accessible unit due to safety risks posed by uneven terrain and steep driveways at Roosevelt Park. The council committed to investigating further and communicating with the Millville Housing Authority.

The meeting culminated in a resolution authorizing a closed session to discuss settlement matters related to ongoing litigation concerning a solar project, receiving unanimous support from the council members.