30:13A primary topic of concern was the water contamination affecting a neighborhood in Upper Township. Residents expressed frustration over the lack of access to municipal water and the high costs associated with connecting to the water system, estimated at $200 per foot. The contamination issue, which had previously involved mercury, has now expanded to include testing for PFAS, potentially linked to agricultural practices. One resident urged the township to explore grants to subsidize the costs of extending municipal water to areas lacking it, emphasizing the need for clean, potable water as a basic necessity.

21:20In another discussion, residents of Osprey Cove, a 55-and-over modular home community, raised concerns over a recent 30% increase in lot rent. The increase, coupled with a reduction in landscaping services, has left residents struggling with the financial burden and questioning the transparency of the management’s decision. Residents expressed a need for clarity on how the rent is allocated and highlighted the impact of the increase on seniors. A resident mentioned a state bill that could potentially regulate such rent hikes. The council members acknowledged the residents’ concerns and expressed empathy, but also highlighted the challenges they face in managing private property issues, emphasizing the need for state-level legislative changes.

13:32The meeting also covered updates on the living shoreline project in Strathmere, which aims to mitigate erosion using eco-friendly materials. The township is collaborating with the Strathmere Fish and Environmental Club, which secured a $915,000 grant from NOAA. Two permits are pending from the Department of Environmental Protection and the Army Corps of Engineers, with an anticipated start for bidding by the end of June. Construction could potentially begin by August or September, earlier than initially expected.

18:39Under new business, the council considered a request from Michelle and Robert Salvuchi Jr. to purchase township-owned land adjacent to their property. The land, constrained by environmental factors such as flood hazard areas and wetlands, is undevelopable. The council approved a motion allowing the applicants to proceed with an appraisal, with further review to occur once more information is available.

20:19Further financial matters included a motion to approve the payment of bills, with one council member abstaining due to a personal conflict. Additionally, the council approved a proposal for a full-time Emergency Medical Technician to attend an emergency medical dispatcher class at a cost of $400.

During the public comments segment, the discussion briefly touched on legislative bills A3361 and S2953, with a resident seeking clarity on their progress through the legislature. The resident expressed frustration over vague responses from the governor’s office and concerns about potential future rent increases. The council outlined the legislative process, noting that the bills need to pass through both the Senate and the House before reaching the governor.

40:52As the meeting concluded, the council moved into an executive session to discuss personnel issues, contract negotiations, engineering services, and ongoing litigation.