A member of the public raised issues about the safety and liability concerns experienced by local merchants due to shoplifting and other criminal behaviors in the area. The council acknowledged these concerns and assured that the Safety Director and police would be informed to potentially increase presence and address the situation.

In legislative matters, the council conducted first readings for two ordinances. Ordinance number 2024-23 aims to amend existing pilot agreements for project tax exemptions. The second ordinance, number 2024-24, proposes amendments to the Center City Redevelopment Plan, specifically concerning a property on East Elmer Street.

The 2024 Municipal budget was also a focal point of the meeting. It was opened for a public hearing, but with no comments from the audience, the hearing was closed, and the budget was subsequently approved.

The consent agenda was rich with resolutions, including the authorization of the New Jersey Division of Highway Traffic Safety’s distracted driving crackdown grant, approval for the remodeling of the city’s Senior Center, and contracts for various city services and projects. Notably, a contract for resurfacing roads and a significant repair undertaking for the Clayville generation unit were approved. Furthermore, the council addressed the rejection of bids for construction inspection services and decided to re-advertise for the service.

The council ended the meeting with comments from council members, who commended the efforts of the city’s youth and recognized the achievements of a local individual who contributed to the space program. Concerns over the state of Landis Avenue were reiterated, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a secure and thriving business district.