The proposed garbage collection initiative emerged as a contentious topic, with the Mayor expressing frustration over its absence from the agenda. The initiative is intended to be a self-sustaining service, countering claims that it would compete with existing companies. However, doubts arose regarding the financial information supporting the project. A council member highlighted discrepancies in the provided data and suggested postponing the initiative until new council members are sworn in, stressing the need for a review.

Despite the Mayor’s request to add the garbage initiative to the agenda, some council members advocated for caution. They emphasized the importance of having all relevant facts before proceeding with a vote, referencing past experiences where contracts were passed without sufficient review time. One member proposed gauging public interest by requiring a certain number of sign-ups before advancing the initiative.

Concerns were raised over the potential impact on local schools, as the payment in lieu of taxes would not provide any funds to the school district to accommodate an increase in student population from the new development.

Council members debated the timing and implications of introducing the ordinance, with some expressing the need for further discussion. The council attorney explained that while the ordinance could be amended later, changes would require reintroduction. Ultimately, a motion was made to table the ordinance for further exploration, which was unanimously agreed upon.

In addition to these major topics, the council meeting addressed several other community-related matters. The Mayor announced that Vernon Township had received a $176,000 Department of Transportation grant for paving Canister Road, contributing to ongoing area improvements. Additionally, the completion of a water expansion project was reported, aimed at enhancing water capacity for future infrastructure endeavors.

The Mayor also highlighted the accomplishments of the police department, which successfully conducted a food drive, collecting 17 turkeys and $970 in cash and gift cards. Contributions from local organizations, including the Vernon United Methodist Church and Flower Foods, were acknowledged. Plans for a ribbon-cutting ceremony for Aqua Pure, a new local water company offering prices lower than current providers, were announced.

Community events featured prominently in the meeting, with updates on a successful holiday market and a turkey trot scheduled for Thanksgiving morning. The Mayor mentioned various upcoming events, such as “Quiet Time with Santa” for special needs children, a holiday tree lighting ceremony, and “Wreaths Across America” to honor veterans. The Operation Toy Train event was also discussed, with efforts underway to gather more information about donation opportunities.

Acknowledgments were made for the contributions of local volunteer firefighters and EMTs, with the passage of Resolution 25-302 confirming support for an active volunteer firefighter’s membership in the New Jersey State Fireman’s Association. The council expressed gratitude for the dedication and service provided by community volunteers.

During public comments, a resident raised concerns about social media usage by town officials, referencing a court ruling on the administration of official pages. The resident sought clarification on policies and enforcement regarding blocking individuals from accessing town information on social media platforms, emphasizing transparency and accessibility.