The utility pole maintenance responsibility emerged as a contentious topic when the Business Administrator, Mr. John Bigo, updated the council on various township projects including the Mors Avenue sewer repair. The debate intensified with jcpnl asserting that the township should bear the maintenance costs. The council contended this claim, highlighting an ongoing dispute that requires further attention. The council discussed the resulting necessity of applying a sand and grit mixture for traction and the subsequent need for road cleaning.

Further elaborating on township projects, Mr. Bigo discussed the court-ordered hiring of an independent construction manager for the Redevelopment and Gomes project. This project’s management was a focal point.

The financial implications of township projects were also addressed during the meeting. Notably, the council approved the authorization of payment for the relocation of a utility pole that had penetrated a sewer line. Craig, a participant in the discussion, emphasized the township’s right to seek reimbursement for this and all related expenses in their agreement with jcpnl. This action was taken without further questions or comments from the council members.

Another key financial discussion involved the introduction of new ordinance 20241, intended to amend existing guidelines for employment positions within the township. John, likely a township official, clarified that the ordinance would establish salary ranges and compensation levels as ranges, not fixed amounts, thus any actual salary changes would require the committee’s approval.

The council also handled routine governance matters with efficiency. Resolutions 2024-49 through 2024-54 were approved on a consent agenda. The council sanctioned the travel of fire captain Mron and his apparatus committee to Wisconsin for a new engine inspection, assuring no financial impact on the township. Moreover, Drew Stern was appointed to the Board of Health for a three-year term, and Michael Scapanski joined the Environmental Commission.

Budget and financial management were further highlighted with the approval of payroll and invoices totaling $5,520,531.44 for a recent period. The council reviewed budget reports and pool revenue, scrutinizing municipal finances to ensure fiscal responsibility. Additionally, a public hearing notice from jcpnl for February 15th was acknowledged, keeping the council informed on utility company engagements that might affect the township.

However, this led to a debate over the eligibility criteria for the finance review board membership. Some council members advocated for inclusive participation. The matter was eventually tabled for further consideration.

The reinstatement of the previously disbanded Recreation committee was another topic of community interest. The council agreed that the goals and procedures for the committee should be defined by its members, who are currently limited to two, leaving no room for additional members at the moment.

During the public comment section, the council faced criticism from a community member who felt their questions were not adequately addressed. This prompted the suggestion that emailing questions might be a more effective means of communication.

The council also entered into a closed session to discuss sensitive matters such as attorney client privilege, personnel items, potential contract negotiations, and redevelopment matters. Following the closed session, resolutions 2024-55 and 2024-57 were passed upon returning to open session.