In the wake of the pandemic and the subsequent surge in demand for high-speed internet, the council’s debate on the cable television contract was of notable interest. The contract, which is with Altis, pertains solely to cable TV and does not include high-speed internet. The council acknowledged the challenges faced during lockdowns and the negotiations with Altis regarding the cable TV portion of the agreement. Mayor Brian C. Wahler and council members, including Frank Uhrin, Gabrielle Cahill, Linwood D. Rouse, Kapil K. Shah, Dennis Espinosa, Sharon Carmichael, and Michele Lombardi, reflected on the additional benefits agreed upon, despite a decrease in cable TV subscriptions.

Aside from the cable TV contract, the council also expressed support for safe staffing bills S304 and A4536, following a plea from local nurses at Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital during the open public comment period. The council proposed a resolution to urge the state legislature to hold public hearings on these bills, aiming to boost public awareness and support.

In other matters, the council passed a bond ordinance providing for various capital improvements in the township and adopted an ordinance for sewer utility improvements. The council also discussed amending and supplementing various chapters of the municipal code and asserting title 39 jurisdiction at a specific address.

Looking ahead, the council expressed optimism about a potential settlement related to the VPU and facilities like the community center and libraries, which they hope will be resolved soon, possibly before year-end. This settlement could have significant implications for these community resources.

As the meeting concluded, council members highlighted upcoming holiday celebrations and events in the community. Councilman Rouse also expressed gratitude for the support he had received during his recovery, while Councilman Shah reminded everyone about the significance of Pearl Harbor Day.