During the meeting, allegations surfaced regarding potential breaches of confidentiality by a council member. One member voiced concerns that an individual within the township appeared to have the capacity to discourage others from seeking employment there. “This is going on in our Township that we have somebody that has the power to make people not want to work here,” the member stated, highlighting the gravity of the situation. The town attorney clarified that an investigation could be initiated under the Administrative Code, requiring a majority vote to establish a framework. The council’s vote on this motion resulted in a split decision, with abstentions described as “very telling and shocking” by the council president. The motion ultimately did not pass, reflecting divisions among council members on the matter.

In another major topic, David L. from Rio Tinto presented on the ongoing remediation project at the Haret D facility. He clarified that Rio Tinto remains liable for issues predating 1995 due to prior ownership, despite the current operator being HMET Aerospace. The site, an 85-acre area in Rockaway Township, has a history of aluminum alloy investment casting operations dating back to the mid-1940s. The contamination issues primarily involve PCBs and technologically enhanced naturally occurring radioactive material. The first phase of the remediation plan includes constructing a new access road to minimize disruption to existing roadways. The second phase involves excavating contaminated soil and transporting it to a licensed facility, with clean fill used to backfill the site to comply with zero net fill regulations. The project is expected to start in early 2026, with community engagement emphasized throughout the process.

Public comments were solicited regarding the remediation project, with resident George Mula expressing concerns about an application for a certificate of non-conforming use at a nearby property on Mount Hope Road. Mula stated, “the issue here is the use will change,” indicating that the resolution did not limit the intensity of use, potentially leading to up to 50 trucks operating daily at a busy intersection. This increase in traffic could compound existing congestion issues.

The council also discussed waste management services, with automated waste collection being a notable topic. Blue Diamond remains the sole provider in the township, and a council member expressed frustration over the administration’s efforts to compile a list of service recipients. Councilwoman Brooks proposed the idea of a bulk purchase program for discounted trash cans, referencing past initiatives. She shared a personal anecdote about a bear stealing her trash can, adding a lighthearted touch to the discussion.

Councilman Sackett commented on the new bear-proof garbage cans being distributed, noting community reactions. The mayor explained that the state of New Jersey delivered 457 bear cans to the township, with distribution occurring in phases. The council vice president reported on recent county commissioner meetings, including a proclamation for Fentanyl Poisoning Awareness Day and funding awarded to Rockaway Township for substance abuse disorder initiatives.

In other business, the council appointed Thomas Batista to Fire Company 2 as a full member, which passed unanimously. Councilman Quinn reported on the fall sports season, emphasizing the importance of safety as school buses resume service. He urged the police department to monitor bus stop areas to ensure student safety.

The council also discussed Ordinance 02415, which involved amending the salaries of certain officials and employees. The ordinance was approved unanimously. Additionally, Councilman Sackett inquired about the baseball fields and associated projects, receiving clarification that the baseball fields would be part of a separate project. The upcoming development will include a pavilion, bocce courts, a community garden, a playground, and a walking path.