The proposed tree ordinance sparked a discussion among council members, with a focus on the notification process for tree removal and the complexities of enforcing the new regulations. Concerns were raised about the practicality of requiring residents to notify neighbors across the street when removing trees, and the implications for property owners, including the placement and number of replacement trees. The urgency of passing the ordinance to meet state requirements for grant qualification was a point of contention, leading to a broader discussion on the importance of preserving the town’s tree canopy. The council emphasized the need for a review and input from all stakeholders, including the administration, before moving forward.

Another topic was the discussion of cannabis licenses in West Orange. The council considered lifting the moratorium on cannabis cultivation and manufacturing to allow more businesses into the market, potentially increasing revenue for the township. However, concerns were raised about community impact and the need for clear regulations on odor control and being good neighbors. The council planned to hold a virtual workshop to address ordinance changes, focusing on the moratorium, license categories, and the utilization of cannabis-related revenue.

The meeting also touched on the allocation of funds generated by cannabis sales, weighing the pros and cons of mandating specific uses for the funds versus allowing the council to control spending. This was part of a larger conversation on how the township would manage the potential influx of revenue and its impact on budget allocations.

In addition to the tree ordinance and cannabis discussions, the council acknowledged the town’s 130th fire department anniversary, celebrating the department’s history and contributions to community safety. Chief Anthony Veio expressed gratitude for the recognition, and town historian Joe Fagan shared historical insights, emphasizing the department’s evolution.

The importance of supporting local food pantries and expanding the program to reach more residents was underscored, highlighting the council’s focus on community welfare initiatives.

Furthermore, concerns about transparency were raised regarding a resolution that lacked critical information from exhibits A and B. A resident also brought attention to the delay in pension payments and the financial implications of ongoing litigation, revealing the council’s engagement with pressing financial matters affecting the community.

The council addressed contractual matters, such as the approval of resolutions authorizing contracts for street improvements and engineering services. Questions were raised about the bidding processes, fair pricing from contractors, and the need for maintaining street trees. The discussions led to the approval of the consent agenda, with some resolutions being removed for further debate.

Discussions on traffic and school drop-off challenges were part of the meeting’s agenda, with council members debating potential changes to improve safety for students. There was a call for collaboration with the school administration to find long-term solutions to traffic congestion during drop-off times.

Training on free speech, hate speech, harassment, and discrimination was also debated, with council members weighing the cost and urgency of such training. Some members suggested pursuing more affordable options, while others stressed the need for comprehensive training to address offensive speech during public meetings.