One notable topics discussed was the Verona Town Council’s progress on the solar consultant initiative. The project, which has moved from the feasibility study phase to a proof of concept, aims to address numerous questions raised in earlier meetings. This transition marks a critical step in the town’s efforts to explore sustainable energy solutions. The council is optimistic that this initiative will pave the way for broader renewable energy projects in the community.

Another development was the near-completion of the community center playground and ADA restroom project. With substantial completion expected by the end of the week, only minor punch list items remain. The successful installation of the pre-fabricated restroom structure using a crane was highlighted as a milestone.

Multiple road projects were also discussed, with construction largely finalized. The council is waiting for paperwork to officially close these projects and secure the final Department of Transportation (DOT) requirements. Efforts related to speed control on Lyon Avenue are ongoing, with assistance from the Complete Streets Technical Assistance Team. The Everfield project is in its final design phase, and a bond ordinance for it was scheduled for a second reading during the meeting.

The council also addressed the role of a construction manager in upcoming projects. Deputy Manager Roman updated the council on a resolution to authorize the design engineer, M McDonald, to transition into construction management. This move aims to ensure efficient oversight of the construction phase, which typically falls within the design professional’s scope of work. Council members sought clarification on the construction management process, particularly regarding the involvement of a third-party firm between the township and the general contractor.

Council members raised concerns about technology upgrades in the council room, given recent issues with video coverage during significant meetings. A rough timeline for resolution was suggested to align with the capital planning process for the 2025 budget.

In addition to these projects, the council discussed traffic management on Lyon Avenue. A council member expressed concerns about the potential impact of proposed changes on surrounding streets. Although the technical assistance grant was specifically allocated for Lyon Avenue, there was a suggestion to consider nearby streets to ensure comprehensive traffic management.

The meeting also included updates from various committees. The Neighborhood Traffic and Safety Committee met to discuss the Lyon Avenue project and plans for a complete streets policy aimed at making the town more bike-friendly. The Multicultural Inclusion and Accessibility Advisory Committee announced an event for Hispanic Heritage Month, scheduled for October 5th at the Verona Public Library, featuring a podcast with young adventurers of Puerto Rican descent, along with food.

The mayor’s report highlighted several notable community events. The mayor congratulated Congresswoman L. Monica McGiver on her election victory and expressed hope of seeing her frequently in Verona. The mayor thanked participants in the recent 9/11 ceremony, acknowledging the contributions of various local organizations including the fire department, rescue squad, and schools. The mayor also attended and encouraged residents to visit new local businesses such as Golf Paradise and Tweel’s Candies and Curiosities.

The township manager reported on several ongoing efforts, including affordable housing initiatives and community development block grants (CDBG). The manager also discussed fundraising for the Emergency Services building, parking signage improvements, and wastewater management plans. Updates were provided on the status of water well projects and the integration issues with the Park Mobile payment application for parking kiosks.

Council members expressed appreciation for community engagement and participation in various events, alongside discussions about community safety, environmental initiatives, and local business encouragement. The session highlighted collaborative efforts among council members and engagement with residents on important municipal matters.

The meeting also featured the adoption of Ordinance 2024-33, which pertains to a bond for preliminary planning expenses for improvements at Everett Field. Despite unanimous support, a council member emphasized the need to codify regulations regarding sound systems into the township’s policies before moving forward with construction. Public participation was solicited regarding the ordinance, but no comments were received.

The council then moved on to the consent agenda, which included minutes and resolutions. Minor corrections were requested on specific agenda items, particularly regarding the labeling of resolutions and the scope of work for an imaging services contract for records. Discussions revealed that the imaging services would digitize records, making them searchable and accessible online, which was viewed as a significant advancement in government efficiency.