The proposed zoning amendments for the township, presented by a representative from H2M, included the addition of assisted living facilities and co-working spaces as a part of the C2 Zone. The amendments were considered necessary to meet the growing need for such facilities in the area and to ensure clarity within the zoning regulations. Council members raised questions about the impact on surrounding residential zones and the process of notifying residents living adjacent to the affected areas. Discussion points also included the criteria for conditional approval of assisted living facilities and the importance of these facilities aligning with the township’s master plan. The representative from H2M provided a comprehensive analysis of the feasibility of these changes, addressing concerns regarding land use planning and the potential effects on neighboring residential properties.

The council also focused on the Verona Flats development project, which would offer 95 affordable housing units. A third of the interested applicants were reported to be Verona residents. The council emphasized the town’s strategy to meet affordable housing requirements while minimizing the impact on schools and the town’s finances. The discussion on the project revealed a commitment to protecting open spaces in Verona and the importance of transparency and public participation in the decision-making process.

Another topic of interest was the proposed Fairview Avenue well facility treatment project. Jacobs Engineering delivered a technical presentation on the project, which aims to address contaminant levels in the water supply. The council and residents discussed the potential implications for the Green Acres program and the impact on nearby recreational facilities. Concerns were raised about land acquisition, construction schedules, noise pollution, and the procedural steps involved in the project’s advancement.

The possibility of moving municipal elections from May to November was a issue, with council members expressing concerns about increased partisan influence and voter fatigue. The potential impact on voter turnout and informed electorate was debated, along with the consequences for the Board of Education. The idea of holding a non-binding referendum to gauge public opinion on the matter was discussed, with members highlighting the need for further research and consultation before making any decisions.

Regarding advisory committees, the council reached a consensus that council liaisons should not have voting rights and should only serve in an advisory capacity. The council agreed to review committee member roles and consider provisions for removal based on attendance. The need for a clear attendance policy and potential changes to the number of members on boards were also discussed. Additionally, the council acknowledged the importance of improving Zoom capabilities for remote participation in meetings, emphasizing the urgency of resolving these issues.

The meeting covered various other items, including the community center playground, road repaving projects, sustainable organic land management, and the study of Centennial Field. Updates on infrastructure projects related to wastewater, drinking water, and stormwater were provided, along with discussions on parking meters, energy audits, and a solar feasibility study.