One of the primary topics of concern was the planned addition of approximately 400 new housing units in the city. A council member voiced apprehension about the potential population increase of 800 people should each unit house two residents. The council emphasized the need to factor these figures into ongoing studies by the Department of Community Affairs (DCA) and Stockton University. This projected population growth prompted a examination of its anticipated impact on city services.

The council also discussed the first reading of Ordinance Number 9, which proposes amendments to Chapters 84 and 300 of the city code, aimed at regulating liquor stores and the sale of alcoholic beverages. Ordinance Number 10, concerning the adoption of a Redevelopment Plan for properties identified as Block 382, Lots 1 and 14, was also introduced. Questions were raised about a proposed five-year tax abatement associated with the redevelopment. A representative clarified that the ordinance was solely for the Redevelopment Plan and that the specifics of the tax abatement would be detailed in a future redeveloper’s agreement, regulated by the Department of Community Affairs.

Safety concerns, particularly around school zones, were a prominent issue. A council member highlighted the need for increased police presence at various school zones, specifically naming locations such as Le Woodland, Broad Street, Washington Avenue, and the high school/middle school campus. The member stressed the dangerously chaotic traffic conditions during school hours, emphasizing that security personnel were not equipped to manage traffic and that “parents are coming in hot.” There was a call for a follow-up meeting with the school district to address these safety concerns more thoroughly, with a plea for immediate action to prevent potential accidents.

Another speaker echoed these safety concerns, recalling a near-miss incident where a child was almost hit by a vehicle during a recent primary election day. The speaker suggested changing the location of elections to reduce safety risks at the school, a sentiment that was widely shared among council members, who recognized the need for a sustainable solution to ongoing traffic and safety issues.

The council also discussed Resolution 132, which proposed rejecting all bids related to various park improvements on Le Avenue, Max Manny, and Creston Avenue due to bids exceeding estimated costs by 30-35%. The resolution aimed to negotiate with contractors for more favorable pricing, with an expectation of completing the negotiation process within a month.

In addition, Resolution 133, seeking approval for the Mexican Independence Day Festival on September 14 at Tilton Avenue Vault Park, and Resolution 134, granting approval for a community yard sale on September 7 at Tilton Avenue Ballpark, were presented. A council member inquired about vendor fees for the yard sale, receiving clarification that a $5 permit fee would be required.

The council then moved to discuss Resolution 135, which involved accepting the resignation of Business Administrator Linda Pon. This prompted no further questions from the council. The council was also informed about ongoing projects, specifically mentioning the Recreation Center’s roof and delays due to environmental testing. Concerns were voiced about the appearance and progress of ongoing projects, particularly a site described as appearing abandoned. A timeline was proposed, aiming for completion and a potential grand opening in the spring, with specific milestones expected to be met by November.

During the meeting, the mayor announced that work on Park Avenue had progressed, with residents expressing satisfaction with the developments. A transition in the administrative staff was noted, as former business administrator Linda Payton had retired and Kenya Nunes was welcomed as the acting business administrator. A certificate of commendation for Linda Payton was read.

Public comments included a positive note from a resident named Tim Jones about the ongoing street paving efforts. However, Jones also raised concerns about the need for a manpower study for the police and fire departments. He emphasized the importance of public awareness regarding these assessments, noting the existence of two studies by the DCA and Stockton University. The council members responded, indicating that they had received the Stockton study but had not discussed it further.