At the forefront of the meeting was the deliberation over the dredging project at Fireman’s Pond. The process, intended to remove sediment and improve water flow, encountered a significant obstacle when attempts to lower the sluice gate revealed it was broken. This issue was compounded by the discovery of a cement blockage behind the gate, preventing proper drainage and emergency overflow. The township engineer outlined the implications of this blockage, emphasizing the complications it introduced to the dredging process. The inability to effectively dewater the pond raised the possibility of employing a dewatering machine, commonly used in wastewater operations, to expedite sediment removal.

The conversation included an analysis of the cost implications of continuing with wet dredging versus utilizing a dewatering machine. The engineer noted that while wet dredging would require long-term sediment storage, the machine could offer a more efficient solution. However, discrepancies in cost estimates surfaced, with council members debating the figures, including a $1.8 million estimate that was not directly applicable to the pond project. Favorable rates from the county for trucking and carting were expected to help manage the project costs, which were estimated to be around $165,000, excluding engineering fees. A half-million-dollar grant from the legislature was cited as a crucial aid for the project’s funding.

Council members discussed potential actions regarding the cement blockage, weighing the benefits of addressing the issue comprehensively while the project was active against the costs involved. There was consensus on the prudence of solving the problem now, leveraging available resources to ensure long-term effectiveness.

Shifting attention from the pond project, the council also engaged in discussions about local infrastructure improvements. The township engineer reported on the 2023 road program, noting that final change orders were in place and assessments with residents had been conducted. While initial dissatisfaction was noted, assessments were ultimately lower than estimated, fostering understanding among residents. Plans for the 2024 program were underway, with bids received but not yet awarded, and surveying for the 2025 program was ongoing.

The council also focused on the lighting situation on Larchwood and Saxony, with ongoing frustrations due to delays in obtaining price estimates. A proposal for an assessment district to fund the lighting project was raised, though questions remained about community agreement and potential opposition. The discussion expanded to the broader impact of street lighting on residential areas, with concerns about the “stadium effect” and the need for a uniform lighting plan. The shift to LED lighting was acknowledged for its energy efficiency, and suggestions were made to improve communication regarding reporting non-functioning street lights.

Attention turned to property matters, specifically the sale of property on Logan. The council debated options for proceeding with the sale, considering advertising versus using an auctioneer. The potential for attracting more bidders through an auction was discussed, with some council members favoring this approach despite concerns about additional fees. The need for permits, such as soil erosion and county permits, was emphasized to streamline the process, and the council acknowledged the lack of serious interest in the property, attributing it to earlier delays.

Infrastructure maintenance topics were also addressed, including ongoing stream cleaning and urgent road repairs on Deal Road. The issue of unauthorized road openings by a gas company led to discussions about potential recourse, including fines and the requirement for repaving. The quality of materials used in road construction was scrutinized, with council members expressing concerns that newer materials do not match the durability of those used in the past.

The council also addressed community safety and development issues. Councilman Weinstein raised concerns about illegal cannabis sales and toxic hemp products, noting that proposed legislation to penalize these activities would be presented at the next meeting. The council also discussed the upcoming League of Municipalities conference and expressed interest in developing policies on electric bikes.