At the forefront of discussions was the $2.3 million bond ordinance aimed at enhancing the intersection at Oldbridge Englishtown Road and Mount Mills Road. This comprehensive project encompasses the full construction of the intersection, including underground piping for stormwater runoff and road widening efforts. The council provided detailed explanations to residents’ queries, noting that the life expectancy of the signalization would vary based on traffic changes and confirming that the budget covers all associated road and drainage work. The council also discussed additional financing for municipal utilities, including a $950,000 allocation for media replacement for MTUD, expected to last seven to eight years, and $5.698 million designated for the total rehabilitation of Pump Station 2. The latter project is set to increase the station’s peak capacity by 2.1 million gallons a day and extend the lifespan of the new equipment to 40 years. In response to inquiries on the bonding resolution, the council clarified that the bonds would have average lifespans of 14 and 25 years, as detailed in the bond ordinance.

Public safety was another key topic, with discussions on the installation of additional fixed License Plate Reader cameras by the county to bolster the town’s police department. The council shared that the county would cover the costs of these cameras, which are expected to enhance security measures. This move aligns with broader safety strategies and compares favorably to other towns without similar technologies. Moreover, the council addressed questions on traffic control reimbursement, municipal budget appropriation limits, the specifics of a developer’s agreement, and the composition of the town’s vehicle fleet.

The council also took action on several ordinances, including the approval of an amendment to the township code related to privately owned salt storage, which is part of stormwater management. Additionally, the council approved the introduction of an ordinance to exceed municipal budget appropriation limits and establish a cap bank.

During the council reports, expressions of gratitude were directed towards individuals and departments for their efforts in various projects, such as the Pump Station 2 initiative and the work of the Parks department. The upcoming retirement of the Department of Public Works (DPW) director was acknowledged, and a new director and superintendent of DPW were congratulated on his new role. Council members also acknowledged the dedication of nurses and teachers and highlighted community events like National Prayer Day, Holocaust Remembrance Day, and National Police Week.

The environmental stewardship of the township was emphasized through positive feedback on recent initiatives, such as a community clean-up event that saw active participation from residents, including youth. Concerns were voiced about surveillance measures, particularly regarding the use of automatic license plate recognition technology and its implications for personal freedoms. While some residents supported the technology for its utility in tracking criminals and stolen vehicles, others expressed unease over potential over-surveillance. A resident raised the issue of potential retaliation by a council member against constituents, citing a specific incident involving a dead tree. The importance of preserving dead trees for pollinator conservation and biodiversity was also highlighted, with a request for exemptions to maintain these habitats.

The meeting concluded with the council expressing appreciation for the annual Memorial run and upcoming Memorial Day event, acknowledging the refinancing of town bonds, and discussing the progress of the solar initiative. The safety and quality of the town’s water supply were reassured, and the Mayor reported on several community events and initiatives, including a township-wide garage sale and the opening of the spray park. The council recognized the efforts of municipal staff and addressed a resolution related to the installation of a memorandum with the county and the prosecutor’s office.