The meeting opened with a proposal from community member Thomas Kemy to revise the township’s home occupations ordinance. Kemy’s request was driven by the New Jersey Department of Health’s new regulations, which permit small-scale, home-based food production and distribution activities. His intention to sell made-to-order baked goods from home is currently not permissible under the existing ordinance, prompting the council to consider amending it. The council debated the amendment process, including the need for a planning board to re-examine the master plan and the implications of non-conformity with state regulations. While supporting the proposed changes, the council members acknowledged the extensive process involved in amending the zoning ordinance.

The council also addressed public concerns regarding the library board, particularly following the resignation of a board member. A community member, Dana Witak, questioned the length of board member terms and the appointment process. The council explained that the five-year term is state-mandated and outlined the application review process managed through the clerk’s office. Furthermore, rumors about book banning at the library were brought to the council’s attention. In response, a council member expressed dissatisfaction with these rumors and assured that no such banning was intended.

Another topic was pedestrian safety, with concerns raised about vehicles failing to stop at crosswalks. The idea of employing plainclothes officers to enforce safety laws was suggested. Additionally, there were issues regarding excessive parking on the Boulevard and the need for more trees in the township. While the council noted the limitations on regulating social media content, they also mentioned the difficulties in acquiring trees despite having received a grant for this purpose.

The Route 23 sewer project was a point of discussion, specifically regarding a proposed change order to loop a water main to prevent conflict with the sewer installation. The council also considered several resolutions, including a grant application for road reconstruction, renewing alcohol control licenses, and approving contracts for an animal control vehicle transport body and an excavator trailer.

Community events were reported on by the council members, including school graduations, a town event, and a free day at PB Park, which were all well-received by residents. The Fire Department Company 2 thanked the council for their new utility truck, and the upcoming fireworks event was announced. The town’s first aid squad’s initiative to sell 50/50 tickets, with a $5,000 guarantee, was acknowledged, and a joint effort between the council and the library board was proposed to fund the renovation of the library parking lot, estimated to cost around $100,000.