The meeting commenced with the oath of office for Council President Bill Rutherford. Residents were particularly vocal during the public comment period, with Cynthia Hatley urging council members to treat each other with respect and refrain from interruptions or disrespect. This theme of civility was echoed as other residents raised concerns about council dynamics, specifically calling out Councilwoman Susan McCartney for a letter she read at a previous meeting. The accuracy of the letter’s content was questioned, and McCartney was asked to apologize for the alleged misinformation regarding the raising of the Palestinian flag.

Another key issue that emerged from public comments was the concern for public safety on Valley Road. A representative from the West Orange Hispanic Foundation requested the installation of a four-way stop sign to address this issue. Additionally, business owner Jen Hardell advocated for the lifting of the moratorium on cannabis cultivation and manufacturing, citing potential tax revenue benefits for the town.

During the session, Noelia Perez provided updates on various town initiatives, including Christmas tree pickup and job opportunities. Anthony Puglione shared county updates, such as the annual homeless connect day and Turtleback Zoo attendance records. From the Zoom audience, Joyce Ruden criticized the mayor’s reluctance to pass an ordinance for a gradual transition to electric leaf blowers, while John Blandon called for greater transparency in council operations.

Councilwoman Michelle Casalino brought up concerns about the financial reporting for Rock Spring, while Councilwoman Asmeret Ghebremicael expressed disappointment with the veto of the gas blower ordinance, highlighting the need for environmental leadership. A contentious moment arose when Ghebremicael criticized Councilwoman Susan Scarpa for reading a defamatory email during a council session.

The council discussed the residency requirement for the town’s food pantry and the potential access issues for non-residents. Megan Bravermann, Director of the Downtown Alliance, presented on the organization’s initiatives, including marketing efforts and upcoming events. She also outlined the proposed budget for the Downtown Alliance, with an emphasis on economic development and visual improvements.

A significant portion of the discussion focused on the interlocal agreement with North Caldwell for animal shelter services and the supplemental funding request for the Green Acres Program. Ghebremicael raised questions about the animal shelter’s availability and the free rabies clinic’s inclusivity. The council deliberated on the need to ensure the entire 142-acre parcel of the Rock Spring site was preserved.

The potential renovation of the Rock Spring clubhouse was another focal point. The council learned that Green Acres had approved renovations consistent with golf course use, but residential development was not allowed. This led to a discussion about the conflicting advice received from legal counsel versus Green Acres.

The council also addressed the administration budget, highlighting the need for support in the Downtown Alliance’s townwide initiatives. They approved an extension of an agreement for the monthly newsletter and discussed the grant application for the NJD Local Transportation Project Fund to improve local roads.

Councilwoman Casalino’s interest in preserving the Rock Spring clubhouse and her inquiry about leasing the space led to a conversation about the impact of Green Acres funding on the site’s development. Council members called for a workshop to further discuss the decision-making process for the site’s future.

The debate over gas-powered leaf blowers was revisited with talks of a summer ban. A subcommittee was formed to consider the impact and reach a consensus on the ban. Additionally, the potential lifting of the cannabis moratorium was discussed, with a focus on understanding zoning regulations and the economic benefits.

Finally, the council considered the issuance of dispensary licenses, one-year terms for boards and commissions, the release of a residential component for downtown redevelopment, and the expansion of the Special Improvement District on Ashland Avenue.