0:02The council’s discussion on monetizing billboard space constituted a major focal point of the meeting. The billboards, located strategically on Route 17 North and South and facing eastbound on Route 80, present a largely untapped financial opportunity for the township. Currently owned by Clear Channel, difficulties have arisen in securing advertisers, prompting the council to reevaluate its strategy. Restrictions on certain types of advertisements, such as those related to cannabis and alcohol imagery, were acknowledged. The council is exploring avenues to attract local business advertisers, with community outlets like the town newspaper or website being considered as potential partners. A resolution is anticipated to formalize agreements regarding advertising rates. Additionally, a 2013 settlement with Allied Developers allows the township advertising “turns” for public service announcements, a resource yet to be capitalized upon.

The council assured that any agreements would not impede emergency access to the billboards for public safety announcements, maintaining a balance between commercial interests and community safety.

In tandem with financial discussions, the council addressed a administrative task: the state-mandated re-evaluation of property values set to occur in 2026. Having not conducted a re-evaluation in over a decade, the township faces the challenge of outdated tax maps. The cost for this re-evaluation is projected at $190,000. Communication with residents is already underway, emphasizing the importance of allowing assessors access to homes to ensure accurate valuations. Refusal of access could lead to elevated assessments, complicating potential tax appeals. The council clarified that both homeowners and renters need to permit assessor entry, with prior notice provided to facilitate this process.

Additionally, a planned overhaul of the township’s outdated website was discussed, highlighting the need for a more modern, user-friendly platform. The current website’s lack of organization and outdated design prompted calls for improvement. Financial constraints were a concern, with current expenditure under $4,500 annually. The council is considering shared services with the local school district to mitigate costs, potentially utilizing their IT personnel’s expertise. Enhancements like creating a database or links for residents to access land use information and approved resolutions were suggested to improve transparency.

15:25The meeting also touched upon the presence of tankers in town during restricted hours, prompting calls for better access to town resolutions and increased transparency. This led to discussions on creating a public database of resolutions, aligning with the township’s broader goal of enhancing community engagement.

A proposal for a professional labor agreement for projects exceeding $5 million was introduced, advocating for union work and prevailing wages. While no current projects meet this threshold, the council expressed support for drafting an ordinance to ensure quality assurance in future endeavors.

On the environmental front, the council considered joining the Sustainable Jersey initiative, promoting environmentally sustainable practices. This initiative requires no financial commitment and could aid in securing grants, with the council noting existing programs that could earn certification points.

The administrator provided updates on the revaluation process, introducing Edmund Brown as the candidate for the new tax assessor position, pending council approval. Energy efficiency improvements were also reported, with new boilers and air conditioning units installed at town hall. Ongoing construction at Carlock Field was detailed, including synthetic sports courts and boundary issue resolutions.

29:24The council’s focus on community facilities extended to the Howard Avenue National water main project, set to resume shortly, and drainage upgrades on Roel Avenue to address flooding. Renovations at the senior center face delays due to material shortages, but progress continues with painting and equipment installations scheduled.

In new business, the appointment of Michael Giuliano as land use board secretary was proposed, with cost savings highlighted. A motion to appoint Matthew Chinsky as a class three land use board member was passed without contention.

Public comments featured resident Michael Warren advocating for clearer billboard advertising guidelines to facilitate community organization use. Another resident sought clarification on the accessibility of Carlock Field during summer camp hours.

44:53The council expressed gratitude for community volunteers, announcing land use board appointments and confirming a shade tree commission ordinance. Public comments on the ordinance were absent, leading to its adoption and the introduction of commission members.