Megan O’Conor, a resident of 64 Yie Avenue, led the conversation by addressing the council during the open public portion of the meeting. O’Conor highlighted the financial strain that an increase in taxes would impose on the community, especially given the current cost of living crisis. She pointed out, “Being hit with further taxes is just too much for a lot of people to bear,” and emphasized the need for a balanced approach that considers the financial well-being of residents.

O’Conor also referenced a recent failed referendum in another New Jersey town for a $76 million school improvement plan. She urged the council and the Board of Education to engage in more public discussions to ensure all stakeholders are considered in the decision-making process.

In response, a council member clarified that the township does not have oversight over the Board of Education and that the referendum was solely proposed by the Board of Education. The council member encouraged O’Conor to attend Board of Education meetings to voice her concerns directly, noting that the next meeting was scheduled for October 16th.

The council then discussed another significant issue: the introduction of ordinance O2 2414, which aims to amend Chapter 54 of the township code regarding the raising and keeping of chickens on residential properties. The newly proposed ordinance includes specific guidelines, such as the prohibition of roosters and regulations on the number of chickens based on property size. One council member remarked, “I thought it was very well written… a lot of good details,” indicating satisfaction with its development. The ordinance, which had undergone revisions through discussions among the ordinance committee, administration, and other stakeholders, passed unanimously with seven affirmative votes.

The meeting also included several updates from council members. Councilman Quinn provided insights into the repaving project involving stone, which had elicited concerns from residents unfamiliar with the cost-saving measure. He reassured them that solutions were being sought and referred those with further concerns to the administration. Councilman Quinn also congratulated the recently promoted members of the police department.

Council Vice President Salberg reported on the Board of Commissioners’ recognition of a $400,000 allocation for a project referred to as “F house” and acknowledged September as Prostate Cancer Awareness Month and Childhood Cancer Awareness Month. He commended the township’s 9/11 remembrance event and noted a successful senior picnic.

The meeting also addressed ongoing legal matters. The township’s legal counsel provided an update on a complaint filed by an individual named Mr. Kelly concerning government records. The Government Records Council had rejected Mr. Kelly’s complaints, leading to an appeal in the Superior Court. The township successfully persuaded the Attorney General’s office to oppose Mr. Kelly’s appeal.

Mayor Jackson shared several updates as well, including the commencement of milling and resurfacing work on Green Pond Road, expected to conclude by the end of October. He also highlighted positive feedback from residents regarding recent municipal services and mentioned an upcoming meeting with the Department of Public Works to address concerns about the appearance of roads following microsurfacing treatments.

The police department’s Chief expressed gratitude to the council and administration for their support in enhancing departmental operations and community safety. He reminded residents of the importance of using the smart911 service for emergency preparedness and urged caution with increased pedestrian traffic expected during the holiday season.

The meeting concluded with a resolution to enter a closed session, during which no action was expected to result. After approximately 30 minutes, the council reconvened and adjourned the meeting unanimously.