The meeting featured an in-depth presentation by Topology LLC, which conducted a redevelopment investigation report for the property on Mammoth Road. The report, which had been submitted to the township in August, aimed to ascertain whether the area met the state’s criteria for redevelopment designation. The study is a foundational step toward the potential adoption of a redevelopment plan that would permit the introduction of new zoning controls and tax incentives. This plan would address the critical conditions that threaten the safety and efficiency of the municipal complex’s operations.

Among one notable issues discussed were the severe water damage and structural deficiencies identified within the building. The report cited active leaks in the roofing and widespread moisture issues, which resulted in stained ceilings and water infiltration in the basement. These conditions were not isolated incidents but rather indicative of a pervasive problem requiring immediate attention. The township engineer’s report corroborated these findings, emphasizing the need for intervention to prevent further deterioration.

The board’s assessment extended to the police department, where members expressed grave concerns over sewage backups affecting classrooms and hallways. This issue has created unsanitary conditions and compromised the working environment. Additionally, hot water system failures due to poorly engineered plumbing recirculation loops have delayed hot water delivery, impacting hygiene and daily operations. The police station’s locker rooms are similarly plagued by plumbing issues, raising further concerns about employee safety and hygiene.

The building’s outdated HVAC system was another significant concern. Temperature inconsistencies throughout the facility necessitate the opening of windows during summer, while maintaining the aging units has cost the township over $150,000 in repairs over the past three years. This situation is compounded by the building’s inability to accommodate the township’s growing population, which has risen from 18,600 to nearly 28,000, resulting in overcrowding that hinders essential services.

The layout of the municipal complex also faced scrutiny for its disjointedness and operational inefficiencies. The building features three separate public entrances that do not connect internally, causing confusion for visitors. The police department’s flawed layout, which requires prisoners to traverse public hallways, presents a significant security risk. The assessment noted that these conditions compromise both employee and public safety, necessitating immediate action.

Further complicating matters is the outdated design of the town hall’s elevators, which frequently break down and pose compliance challenges with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). The cost of maintaining these elevators is significant, and their design does not align with modern accessibility standards, limiting access for disabled visitors.

The board’s discussion also highlighted the implications of these findings, particularly regarding the police station’s design. The Sallyport situation, where prisoners are exposed to civilian areas, was described as unacceptable and dangerous. A board member emphasized the need to address these vulnerabilities to mitigate potential liability issues.

In light of these findings, the board proposed a resolution to officially designate the municipal complex as an area in need of redevelopment. This motion was seconded and followed by a roll call vote, resulting in unanimous support for the resolution. The decision represents a step in addressing the issues identified in the assessment, with the responsibility for redevelopment decisions ultimately resting with the town council.