During the meeting, residents voiced various concerns about the ordinance, such as the financial burden it could place on homeowners and the town’s responsibility in maintaining its trees. The complexities of the proposed regulation and the enforcement of existing codes were also highlighted, with some calling for better public communication about the ordinance’s implications. The council discussed potential amendments, including the responsibility for tree inspections and adjustments to the replanting fee. While some council members were ready to pass the ordinance, others urged for further discussion and public input, highlighting the necessity of ensuring residents have a clear understanding of the potential impact.

The meeting also saw the presentation of certificates of appreciation to Public Safety dispatchers in recognition of National Communications Week, with Township Manager Dean Kazinski underscoring the vital role of telecommunicators in emergency services. The council reflected on the importance of dispatchers, sharing personal experiences and gratitude for their dedication.

A proposal for a joint open special workshop meeting was put forward to address the new affordable housing bill’s impact, with discussions on whether it would duplicate the affordable housing subcommittee’s efforts. An environmental commission report was presented, outlining the commission’s past activities and future goals, including educational initiatives and park improvements. A resolution for Arab American Heritage Month, submitted by Arab American residents, was debated over its timing and content, with some members calling for a more comprehensive review.

Public engagement featured prominently, with passionate remarks from residents on a variety of topics, including local and global issues. A resident’s call for backyard chickens to be allowed due to their educational and practical benefits was one of the unique requests raised. Discussions also touched on mental health awareness, affordable housing, and traffic management. The council faced a tense moment when a disruptive attendee prompted a motion for a recess, further highlighting the need for orderly conduct during public meetings.

The township manager provided updates on several projects and events, such as disaster shelter training, maternal health month activities, and electric reliability improvements. The council discussed a resolution to recognize Mental Health Awareness Month and the achievements of Tamba Hali, a former resident and Kansas City Chiefs player inducted into their Hall of Fame.

A public hearing opened for a resolution regarding the submission of a 2024 Bergen County open space trust fund application for Phelps Park exercise station improvements, but no public comments were made. Additionally, ordinances concerning property dedication for public right of way and tree removal regulations were discussed, with the latter leading to a request for silence due to interruptions.

Finally, the council addressed a range of community concerns, from tax levies and fare hikes to the recognition of Arab American Heritage Month. A draft resolution to recognize May as Zombie Awareness Month was proposed, underscoring preparedness for potential disasters. The meeting concluded with the approval of the consent agenda and a motion to adjourn, but not before addressing the need for respectful dialogue and the council’s focus on township business. The debate on the Arab American Heritage Month resolution and the hourly rate for snow plowing were also notable points of contention.