One item at the meeting was the announcement of $1 million in state funding for a critical pump station project, with Mayor Miller expressing gratitude for the support from Assemblywoman Lisa Swain and Assemblyman Chris Tully. The Mayor recalled initial skepticism about receiving state money, making the eventual approval a surprising and welcome development. Assemblywoman Swain shared her emotional response, noting the persistent flooding issues faced by many towns in the district and the collaborative efforts that made the funding possible. The assembly members were honored during the meeting, receiving a symbolic check representing the financial support secured for the project, seen as a significant victory for the town.

Additionally, the council discussed plans to collaborate with several neighboring towns for a $10 million flood mitigation grant, with an approaching deadline of October 29. Concerns were raised about delays in the submission of requests to the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection by the US Army Corps of Engineers, emphasizing the need for town or county officials to expedite the process.

In a separate but related matter, the council introduced Ordinance 1250-25, amending chapter 161 regarding streets and sidewalks. It was clarified that this ordinance would not result in increased fees for snow removal on residential properties. The ordinance passed unanimously.

Community recognition played a role in the meeting, with the council honoring William Catrella for his 15 years of service as a crossing guard. The Mayor, alongside Lieutenant Ed Kukulski, highlighted Catrella’s dedication to ensuring the safety of children in the community, presenting him with a plaque amidst applause. Catrella expressed gratitude, sharing a personal connection to the role due to a family member’s serious accident, and emphasized the risks associated with being a crossing guard.

The meeting also included proclamations recognizing National First Responder Day on October 28 and Breast Cancer Awareness Month in October. The Mayor highlighted the contributions of first responders and stressed the importance of supporting their mental, physical, and emotional well-being. Additionally, the breast cancer awareness proclamation underscored the impact of the disease on both women and men, emphasizing early detection and community support.

Infrastructure updates featured prominently in the meeting, with reports on ongoing projects, including enhancements to Berdan Street and a roofing project on a township building. The Department of Public Works (DPW) was praised for completing a landscaping project funded by a developer’s donation, improving the area around Matthews Field. The council also discussed the procurement of new recycling bins, noting expired quotes and rising costs. A suggestion was made to consider designs with attached lids for practicality, addressing concerns from residents about the current bins’ susceptibility to wind.

Public safety and community events were also on the agenda. The police department reported 159 calls for service in August, with a focus on proactive policing resulting in 350 motor vehicle stops, 12 arrests, and 665 summonses issued. Training for officers on recognizing cannabis impairment was highlighted, following cannabis legalization. The success of the National Night Out event was acknowledged, and the importance of succession planning within the police department was emphasized.

Upcoming community events were announced, including a flu clinic for seniors and township employees, a fall festival, and a turkey trot in November. The Veterans Update reported on an annual family picnic hosted by Post 170, while the building department provided a summary of permits issued and inspections conducted.

Finally, the council addressed concerns about a sound ordinance affecting landscapers, the cessation of tenant reviews for new businesses, and community engagement in environmental initiatives.