The council delved into financial matters, with discussions revealing a projected budget savings of $1.4 million due to consultations with a broker about various programs. Although the budget will still increase by 22.3%, this marks a reduction from an anticipated 37% hike. Additionally, the township secured $250,000 from the Department of Energy, helping to offset previous delays caused by government closures. Efforts to reduce overall debt were further supported by receiving most rebates related to electric vehicle chargers.

Traffic issues in the Possum Town and Windwood areas were another priority, with the council president acknowledging the mayor’s initiative in communicating with the DOT. The focus is on addressing concerns about app users circumventing designated routes during rush hours, causing congestion and safety issues. The mayor confirmed ongoing discussions with the DOT.

Community involvement received considerable attention, with council members praising various initiatives. Council Member Michele Lombardi commended the police department for its promotions and innovative programs, like home checks for residents away during the holiday season. Lombardi emphasized the importance of recognizing the department’s contributions to community safety and well-being.

Council Member Sarah Rashid highlighted the success of food drives collecting non-perishable items for local food pantries, acknowledging the active participation of residents. Rashid also recognized individuals such as Ralph Johnson for their efforts in delivering collection bins to schools.

During the meeting, Business Administrator Paul Casari updated the council on township projects, including the ecological park. Casari announced the township’s successful application for Hazardous Discharge Site Remediation Fund (HDSRF) money, with $289,000 received this year and an anticipated $2.9 million in the future. Despite delays due to certification requirements from the county’s soil board, the project has already been awarded.

Casari also addressed change orders included in the consent agenda, explaining that these adjustments reflected cost savings due to effective oversight by the Department of Public Works and engineering staff. He expressed gratitude for the departments’ efforts in preparing budget requests. The negotiation of health insurance remains a significant matter under consideration.

Public comments brought attention to concerns about vinyl fencing regulations, with a resident expressing frustration over an 8-foot vinyl fence erected by a neighbor. Issues were raised about visual obstruction and property maintenance, with the resident questioning the enforcement of regulations, particularly for corner lots. Another resident praised the public works department for their effective assistance in cleanup efforts following personal losses, emphasizing their gratitude for the department’s support.

A newcomer to the council meetings expressed appreciation for staff members who secured grants and praised a recent multicultural event. However, they voiced concerns about previous communications with township officials regarding safety during public protests. The individual felt wrongly labeled as an anti-Semite when seeking information about security measures, highlighting frustrations over communication and support from the township.

The council president addressed accusations against township staff made during the public comments, defending staff members against unfounded attacks and emphasizing a commitment to accurate representation of conversations about safety. The meeting concluded with a motion to adjourn, which was seconded and passed without opposition.