0:28The most notable topic discussed was the approval of amendments to the Ston Avenue Redevelopment Plan. These changes, which concern specific properties within designated blocks and lots, were moved for a second and final reading, receiving unanimous approval from the committee members present. This ordinance is a part of the township’s ongoing efforts to manage and improve local development.

In addition to the redevelopment plan, the committee introduced an ordinance amending Chapter 37-7 related to the Board of Appeals, which allows appeals to the Union County Construction Board of Appeals. This was introduced for its first reading. Accompanying this was the repeal of section 27-2, also concerning the Board of Appeals, and an amendment to Chapter 440-36 to adjust registration fees for vacant and abandoned properties.

A bond ordinance for capital improvements involving Essex and Union counties was presented, amounting to $2,510,000, approved for consideration at the next meeting. This bond will support various infrastructure projects. Other resolutions included legal representation for issues related to New Jersey Transit, costing up to $20,000, and a contract with Fire Flow Services for fire department equipment testing, priced at $18,400.

The committee also approved a substantial five-year contract for solid waste and vegetative waste collection with Regional Industries, with an annual cap of $5,996,000. A change order was approved to increase PM Construction’s contract by $40,000 for the 2024 Road Program, reflecting necessary adjustments to maintain road infrastructure.

In the realm of public safety, the purchase of four police motorcycles from Liberty Harley-Davidson for a maximum of $53,832 was approved. Additionally, four new parking pay stations will be acquired from Integrated Technical Systems Inc., amounting to $42,894, to improve parking facilities.

The committee authorized issuing bond anticipation notes for $15 million to manage fiscal responsibilities effectively. The tax assessor was instructed to file tax appeal complaints with the Tax Court of New Jersey for specific properties, aligning with the township’s fiscal oversight policies.

Community engagement was a prominent theme, with the committee reviewing requests from various organizations for events, such as the Portuguese American Civic Association’s flag-raising ceremony and the New Jersey Folk Festival’s venue request for their 50th-anniversary celebration. These events highlight the township’s vibrant cultural activities and community involvement.

22:40The meeting celebrated notable achievements, such as the Union High School students’ academic successes. Salutatorian Jaden Shaw and valedictorian Ubz Egky were acknowledged, alongside seniors Ethan Santos and Rio J. Vante, who were accepted into the United States Military Academy at West Point. Their accomplishments reflect the high standards of Union High School and the township’s support for academic excellence.

Local sports achievements were also highlighted, with the fifth-grade boys’ travel basketball team, coached by Donald Paris, finishing their season with a remarkable 12-2 record. They advanced to the championship game, scheduled for March 15th. Similarly, the seventh-grade boys’ team, led by Keith Stewart, ended their regular season with a 10-4 record and will face Flemington in their championship game on March 16th. The council commended all players, coaches, and parents for a successful season, emphasizing the importance of community support in youth sports.

Upcoming community events were announced, including a health and wellness event on March 18th and a series titled “Uncomfortable Conversations” about mental illness, scheduled for March 21st and March 28th. These initiatives aim to enhance community well-being and foster open discussions on topics.