24:35One item at the meeting was the debate surrounding traffic conditions at the intersection of Old Mill Road and Spring Hill Road, an area noted for its hazardous traffic and frequent accidents. The council engaged in a conversation on the installation of a four-way stop sign, which has been slated for implementation within two to three weeks. Residents voiced their concerns over speeding vehicles, with one describing the posted speed limit as ineffective, stating that cars frequently exceed the limit, increasing the risk of accidents.

26:37Council members, including one who resides nearby, confirmed the spike in accidents and stressed the urgent necessity for traffic calming measures. The council revealed that the county had already approved the stop sign installation, but reducing the speed limit would require further county approval. The council member emphasized that the area had become a cut-through for increased traffic due to new businesses, exacerbating the problem.

The engineering team, represented by Nicole Shapiro and Fred Kish, expressed their appreciation for the business administrator’s efforts in engaging with the county. They confirmed ongoing discussions with the county to address not only the stop sign but also the potential for a reduced speed limit. The council discussed additional measures such as a traffic study post-installation, enhanced signage, and police presence to ensure compliance. Suggestions also included installing street lights from JCPL to improve intersection visibility, particularly at night.

The council assured residents that their concerns were being heard and addressed, with the engineering team acknowledging community feedback as a driving factor in expediting the process. The use of speed limit signs displaying real-time speeds was proposed to help alter driver behavior. Acknowledging the challenges of changing traffic patterns on county roads, council members agreed on the necessity of the stop sign as a first step, with further actions to follow if safety concerns persist.

44:52In another development, the council adopted an amended redevelopment plan for an area at the intersection of Jake Brown Road and US Highway 9 and White Oak Lane. The council also unanimously approved an amendment to the township code regarding accessory buildings and structures, with public hearings scheduled for both ordinances in May 2025.

48:49Among the administrative matters, the council passed a resolution concerning a shared service agreement with the Board of Education. Additionally, upcoming early voting details were announced, with changes to polling locations to accommodate voters.

50:14The meeting also recognized National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week, celebrating the contributions of 911 dispatchers in handling approximately 62,000 calls in 2024. The council discussed the annual drainage improvement program, approving a bid from Fernandez Constructions Inc. for improvements expected to commence in late spring 2025.

56:58A noteworthy community initiative was the announcement of the Hometown Heroes banner program, set to launch on April 28. This program aims to honor local veterans, with residents invited to participate by purchasing banners. The first banner will honor a council member’s World War II veteran grandfather.

01:01:27Public comments included a resident’s interest in establishing a cannabis dispensary and another’s suggestions for amending the tree ordinance. The council addressed these concerns, emphasizing ongoing discussions and the importance of resident input in shaping township policies.

01:09:28The meeting also included acknowledgment of the recent fire at Madison Arms Apartments, with council members expressing condolences and gratitude for the first responders’ efforts. The community was urged to support the displaced families.

01:20:53Discussions touched on the township’s re-evaluation process and its impact on the Board of Education’s financial situation, with a council member addressing misinformation circulating in the community. They clarified that re-evaluations do not increase tax revenue and urged residents to redirect frustrations towards state policies that have affected education funding.