The most significant topic of discussion was the township’s financial liability for environmental cleanup costs at the Ridan BAS Slag Superfund site. The council detailed a complex negotiation process, initially estimating the cleanup at $200 million, with Old Bridge’s liability initially set at $23,300,000. Through negotiations, that liability was reduced to approximately $7 million. This was accomplished by securing credits from a bankrupt insurance carrier, contributions from the state government, and settlements with several insurance carriers. Council members expressed frustration with the federal government’s role in the situation, emphasizing that the township was forced to bear financial responsibility for a cleanup related to actions taken without local permission. They urged residents to contact federal representatives to seek assistance in alleviating the township’s financial burden.

The introduction of the Hometown Heroes Banner program also garnered attention. The program aims to honor veterans by displaying military banners on light poles from Memorial Day to Veterans Day. The initiative was inspired by similar programs in other towns and discussions at a municipal conference. The council discussed the program’s logistics, including banner dimensions, costs, and eligibility criteria. The township will manage the purchase of hardware for hanging the banners, while residents will be responsible for purchasing the banners themselves. Fundraising efforts were suggested to assist disabled veterans who may not afford the cost. The council expressed enthusiasm for the program, recognizing its importance in honoring veterans and complementing existing events like the mayor’s 5K honoring Hometown Heroes.

The council also approved a new hotel-motel exception retail consumption liquor license for Hook Mountain Associates, operators of the Hampton Inn in Old Bridge. The license permits alcohol possession and consumption within hotel premises, with specific stipulations to prevent disturbances, such as prohibiting outside alcohol possession and consumption. Council members reinforced the need for adherence to the township’s noise ordinance, noting past issues with other establishments serving liquor.

In another significant agenda item, the council discussed the NJDEP Green Acres Program Urban Parks Grant application for improvements to Minino Park. The grant application proposes to fund the entire project if approved, focusing on relocating the existing playground to a safer area and adding new features like a full-size basketball court and illuminated bocce ball courts. The estimated project cost is $9,185, and the council was optimistic about attracting a broader audience to the park. Public comments were invited, but no immediate responses were recorded, leading to a positive outlook on the project.

The meeting also addressed community concerns, particularly regarding noise disturbances attributed to the Grand Marquee venue. Residents expressed frustration over ongoing issues, stating that the noise, especially vibrations from the bass, infiltrated their homes. The residents reported making numerous calls to the venue and police, but their complaints often went unheeded. In response, the mayor invited residents to email their complaints directly, promising to investigate the matter promptly.

Additionally, the council heard concerns from an attorney representing two police officers injured during a duty-related incident. The attorney criticized the town’s handling of their medical and psychological treatment, particularly regarding workers’ compensation. A member of the public, identified as the mother of one of the officers, voiced her anguish over the treatment of her son and his colleague, emphasizing their heroism during the incident. The public comment session concluded with an invitation for further discussions on the matter.

The meeting also included procedural matters, such as an ordinance amending regulations for food trucks and solicitors, pedlars, auctioneers, junk dealers, and used car lots. The council approved the consent agenda and discussed a resolution related to a zoning board decision appeal process, with a council member abstaining from voting due to concerns about the validity of the original complaint.