Residents of Verona Senior Housing voiced their concerns, particularly regarding the inability to control heating, which remained at a constant 68 degrees, deemed too low for senior residents. The absence of an intercom system was highlighted as a safety issue, especially during emergencies like a recent odor leak that raised fears of a gas leak. Residents expressed dissatisfaction with the building management, citing unresolved issues with theft, vandalism, and malfunctioning windows that posed safety risks. The council acknowledged these grievances, expressing empathy and a commitment to working with residents to address their concerns, despite limitations due to the building’s private ownership.

The council suggested that the township manager could request code enforcement officials to visit the property to assess the situation. They also discussed the previous oversight by a formal board, which no longer exists due to the building’s private ownership, limiting the council’s direct authority but emphasizing the management’s responsibility to comply with heating distribution regulations.

In parallel, the meeting included a discussion on a new ordinance related to business registrations and insurance requirements, which had sparked debates due to its broad definition of business activity. The ordinance mandates that businesses, including rental properties, obtain licenses and show proof of insurance. Concerns were raised regarding the timeline for compliance, initially set for February 2023, and the need for a comprehensive educational campaign to prepare residents.

The council deliberated on whether individuals who own Limited Liability Companies (LLCs) without conducting business should be subject to the ordinance. They also discussed potential conflicts of interest for council members who own LLCs, considering an ethics review to address these concerns. The ordinance specifies different insurance requirements based on property size, with $300,000 for single-family rentals and $500,000 for properties with more than four units, aligned with state law. However, some members found these distinctions too broad and potentially impractical.

There were concerns about the impact on home-based businesses, nonprofits, and the potential administrative burden of managing registrations. The council contemplated postponing the ordinance’s effective date to mid-year 2023 to allow for sufficient outreach and notification. They emphasized the need for clear guidelines to prevent the ordinance from becoming unmanageable, considering potential exemptions for certain entities and the feasibility of enforcement.

The council also addressed operational updates, including wastewater treatment improvements and stormwater management initiatives. A draft pool rate study was under review, with expectations for a final recommendation soon. The council discussed emergency repairs to the communications tower building and noted successful completion of some repairs, while others were still pending.

In legislative matters, the council unanimously passed Ordinance number 2024-35, related to storm management controls, and Ordinance number 2024-36, amending the schedule of fees in the township code. They introduced a bond ordinance for improvements to the pickleball and tennis courts, acknowledging increased costs due to rising expenses and an expanded project scope. Another bond ordinance related to improvements at the big pool also received unanimous support.

The council explored a resolution addressing the decline of print newspapers, urging the state legislature to recognize online news platforms as legal newspapers. This change was deemed necessary as local print options like the Star Ledger and the Trenton Times ceased publication, affecting compliance with public notice provisions. The council underscored the urgency of maintaining transparency in governance amidst these challenges.

They acknowledged the success of the recent election and expressed appreciation for the efforts of the municipal clerk and poll workers, particularly regarding early voting arrangements at the Verona Community Center.