17:28One notable issue was the resolution concerning Verona’s affordable housing obligation, a matter that stems from a state-mandated requirement to protect municipalities from exclusionary zoning lawsuits. The township planner, with the assistance of DMR Architects, identified an error in the DCA’s methodology, which included 18.5 acres of deed-restricted public parkland in its calculation of available land. By correcting this error, the township proposed to reduce its obligation from 173 to 149 affordable housing units. This adjustment was a key agenda item, as it would form the basis of an affordable housing plan due by June 30, 2025, with potential legal challenges to be addressed by August 31.

0:05The historical context of the Mount Laurel cases, which established municipalities’ obligations to provide affordable housing, was referenced during the discussion. The council recognized the importance of establishing a plan that outlines zoning and development strategies to meet these obligations. The plan must also include a spending strategy for the affordable housing trust fund over the next decade. The township faced a decision to either accept the DCA’s calculations or propose an alternative figure based on identified flaws. There was a public inquiry regarding the township’s consideration of joining a lawsuit challenging the DCA’s methodology. The council acknowledged the actions of other municipalities but stated that no decision had been made regarding participation in such legal action.

17:28In addition to the affordable housing discussions, the council addressed the financial situation of the local pool utility. The director of community services presented a consultant’s recommendation for a 15% rate increase across all membership tiers to improve financial sustainability. While this increase was seen as necessary, it was acknowledged that it would not fully resolve the financial issues for the upcoming season. The administration engaged with the recreation advisory committee’s pool subcommittee to review the recommendation and explore potential savings through staffing modifications.

35:54Concerns about service quality were raised, particularly regarding the proposal to reduce the number of maintenance workers due to complaints about cleanliness, specifically in the bathrooms. The council discussed the possibility of cross-training staff to handle both maintenance and office responsibilities to better utilize personnel without extensive skill training. The need for data collection on the use of recreational facilities and programs was emphasized, with a focus on creating a more nuanced pricing structure that could vary based on usage.

17:28A specific proposal was made to open pool memberships to all full-time township employees at the same rates as Verona residents, alongside a shared service arrangement for the local fire department and rescue squad. This arrangement would involve providing membership subsidies in exchange for services rendered to the pool, such as CPR and first aid training. The council considered the financial implications of increasing fees for local nonprofits hosting pool parties.

1:08:33The council also reviewed updates on several infrastructure projects, including the commencement of the primary clarifier pump station project and ongoing design work for the wastewater plant disinfection micro screen project. The Durwent trunk line required final repairs pending favorable weather, and updates on the Clar Drive pump station and Evert Field were provided. The council anticipated a presentation from the local government energy audit team and discussed the progress of window and building repairs at town hall.

The meeting concluded with discussions on ordinance amendments and the adoption of resolutions, including the acquisition of salt trucks and updates to township administration codes.