The revised tree ordinance stood out as a topic of the meeting. This ordinance, driven by a state mandate, aims to address environmental challenges such as stormwater runoff and climate change. The business administrator explained that the ordinance was being updated to ensure clarity and compliance, drawing on similar regulations from neighboring towns like Floren Park and Madison. Under the new ordinance, residents who remove trees are required to replace them or contribute to a tree fund for planting elsewhere if on-site replacement isn’t feasible. This fund is intended to bolster tree planting initiatives and safeguard public rights-of-way.

The ordinance discussion revealed the emotional investment of the community in tree-related issues, as the administrator noted the strong sentiments on both property rights and environmental conservation. Some council members expressed concerns about the financial burdens the ordinance could impose, especially on new residents or those renovating properties. Questions were raised about permit structures and potential fees for tree removal, with one member likening it to a “new large tax.”

Arguments for the ordinance highlighted the long-term environmental benefits of trees, such as stormwater management, air quality improvement, and carbon sequestration. The need for a comprehensive legal framework to manage tree removal effectively was emphasized, especially in light of New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection mandates. Discussions also touched on the potential for exacerbated flooding issues if trees were removed without proper assessment, emphasizing the ecological significance of maintaining tree canopies.

The meeting also addressed cannabis application and licensing fees, which drew criticism from Karina Jacumis, founder of Anthia Labs. She argued that the fees imposed by the township—$25,000 for applications and $35,000 annually for renewals—exceeded the regulatory authority granted under state law. Jacumis highlighted her positive past interactions with the township while questioning the legitimacy of the current fee structure, noting that other municipalities either imposed no fees or lower fees for cannabis testing laboratories.

Another public concern was the safety hazards related to electric vehicles, particularly scooters and bikes. A speaker reported an alarming incident involving a child killed on an electric bike, prompting calls for enhanced public safety measures. The need for an ordinance to address safety issues was suggested, mirroring a previous educational session conducted by an officer. The urgency of tackling reckless behavior among children using these vehicles was emphasized.

Financial implications of Payment in Lieu of Taxes (PILOT) agreements also drew attention. A speaker criticized the council’s approach, arguing that PILOTs resulted in a substantial loss of tax revenue for the township, citing the Avalon PILOT as an example. The speaker suggested that the township’s financial growth could continue without such agreements, urging the council to reconsider their stance.

During the meeting, the mayor highlighted various accomplishments and initiatives, including the acquisition of 10 acres for open space and flood protection, and improvements to the township’s financial standing. The mayor defended previous tax increases as necessary for addressing an $8.5 million deficit, emphasizing the township’s improved financial outlook recognized by credit rating agencies. Initiatives like a successful fall festival and farmers market season were lauded as positive community events.

The council reviewed and passed several bond ordinances for capital improvements across township utilities, including general capital, water, sewer, and golf utilities. These ordinances were introduced and passed on the first reading, with subsequent readings and final considerations scheduled for the next meeting. The meeting also included resolutions related to emergency medical service billing, voluntary employee benefits, and changes in redevelopment property ownership, all of which were approved unanimously.