In a notable development, Commissioner Thomas J. Evans introduced ordinance number 3562, which outlines a financial agreement for the Diamond Springs Redevelopment project. This initiative includes the construction of 85 housing units, 82 of which will be age-restricted for residents 55 and older. The ordinance passed its first reading and advertisement, with final consideration set for September 3, 2024. This project aims to address the growing need for senior housing in the community, offering a significant boost to local redevelopment efforts.

The council also discussed ordinance number 3561, which proposes setting salaries for non-union employees effective January 1. This ordinance was moved for a second reading and advertisement, with a final passage consideration likewise scheduled for September 3, 2024.

In addition to these ordinances, the council addressed the expansion of the township’s fiber line network. This phase aims to connect the fiber line to Flor lden Park on Hancock Avenue, enabling live streaming of local events. This technological upgrade is expected to enhance community engagement and accessibility to township activities.

During the meeting, several resolutions were approved unanimously. One such resolution involved the refund of overpaid water charges totaling $888.71 for three properties. Another resolution addressed a tax overpayment of $2,498 for Block 501, Lot 3. Additionally, a resolution was adopted to insert a special item of revenue in the municipal budget for a $28,000 grant to assist with a lead program.

Commissioner Mauro G. Tucci presented a resolution to refund families for canceled recreational program payments, detailing specific amounts for families associated with Camp Nutley. This resolution was also unanimously approved.

A resolution to award a contract for synthetic turf maintenance and repair services to Athletic Fields of America for $16,733.34 was also passed. This funding was sourced from a local recreation improvement grant and the township’s capital account, highlighting the council’s ongoing efforts to maintain and enhance local recreational facilities.

The council also approved several inserts for special items of revenue and appropriations for the 2024 municipal budget. This included grants from the Nutley Safe Routes to School program and the Department of Transportation for roadway improvements. Notably, the council rejected a bid proposal from Aral Construction for a sewer line camera inspection project due to budget constraints and authorized the re-advertisement for sealed bids for this project.

Another resolution awarded a contract to DNL Pavers for the 2024 Coyman Avenue roadway improvement project, with a bid of $52,400. The council emphasized the need for pedestrian safety measures in the community, particularly in light of increasing incidents involving pedestrians.

In a notable moment during the public comment portion, resident Janice Rubal commemorated the anniversary of her father’s passing and advocated for a reduction in yearly rent increases for seniors over 65. She proposed amending the current ordinance to limit allowable rent increases to 2.5% instead of the standard 5%. Rubal requested that this proposal be posted publicly and voted on by the commissioners. This proposal received support from another resident, Patty Little, who also raised an issue regarding police training. Little suggested that the police and EMTs learn a new technique developed by a jujitsu practitioner for safely subduing individuals, especially in mental health crises. The council acknowledged both issues, recognizing the complexities of policing and the need for appropriate training and support for officers.

The meeting also included the hiring of a town health officer, a position that had not been filled internally for over two decades. The council approved the insertion of special items of revenue into the municipal budget for the “Strengthening Local Public Health Capacity” and “Sustaining Local Public Health Infrastructure” grants.

The council concluded the meeting with discussions on civil service practices aimed at attracting police officers to the community. This resolution was discussed in detail during an executive session. The resolution passed.