West Windsor Council Praises Local Efforts and Addresses Community Concerns at October Meeting
- Meeting Overview:
The recent West Windsor Town Council meeting focused on community initiatives, including the recognition of local contributions to public safety, discussions on immigrant worker protections, and the implementation of new traffic regulations. The council acknowledged the support provided by residents and organizations, while also addressing public concerns about transportation, safety, and community engagement.
A highlight of the meeting was the ceremonial presentation by the West Windsor Police Department, honoring the legacy of the Hajj family. Chief Gara Folo dedicated a plaque to Leona Hajj in memory of her late husband, Peter Hajj, for their longstanding support of the department. The Hajj family’s generosity was instrumental in procuring bulletproof vests and K9 Hodgej, the department’s first narcotics dog. The plaque commemorated K9 Hodgej’s service from 2019 to 2025. The chief emphasized, “Your family’s legacy lives on in the service, protection, and sacrifice of K9 Hajj.”
Another ceremonial matter included a proclamation for “Communities of Light,” presented to the organization Unity, formerly Women’s Space. The council recognized Unity’s ongoing efforts to support victims of domestic violence and sexual assault since 1977. October 27, 2025, was declared “Communities of Light Day,” urging community participation in a symbolic act of placing luminaries to show solidarity.
Transportation and safety issues were prominent topics of discussion. One resident raised concerns about the senior center’s recent loss of a bus driver. The council discussed potential solutions, including adjusting bus schedules to align with school timings and possibly utilizing school district buses to restore services soon.
Community safety also garnered attention, particularly with daylight savings time approaching. A council member stressed pedestrian visibility during darker evening hours, urging residents to wear reflective materials or lights. They also highlighted the importance of obeying speed limits and school bus stop regulations to ensure children’s safety. “Please make yourself visible if you’re a pedestrian,” the council member advised, emphasizing the risks associated with walking in dark clothing.
In a related discussion, a new speed limit sign proposal in a densely populated area prompted debate. While one council member questioned the need for a study to validate the 25 miles per hour limit, another pointed out that it was the minimum allowable speed and had HOA approval. The decision highlighted the complexities of traffic enforcement and the importance of professional judgment in setting speed limits.
Public comments addressed issues, including a proposal for the council to support the Immigrant Trust Act (ITA). A non-resident commuter advocated for a municipal resolution favoring the ITA. The resolution would express support for migrants without imposing legal obligations on the town.
The meeting also included updates on community events and initiatives. The Recreation Department reported on a successful trunk-or-treat event at the Skank Farmstead and upcoming Diwali celebrations. The council discussed a drone show planned to replace fireworks, supported by the Recreation Department’s trust fund, with an appeal for community donations to cover costs.
In administrative updates, the council announced a $2,500 grant from Sustainable Jersey for an energy efficiency outreach campaign. This grant would fund resources to promote energy-saving programs, benefiting residents, especially lower-income households. The council acknowledged the environmental commission’s role in securing the grant.
The meeting concluded with a focus on sidewalk maintenance and repairs. A project budgeted at $150,000 aims to address outstanding requests, with repairs expected to commence soon. The council emphasized patience, noting the procedural timelines involved.
Hemant Marathe
City Council Officials:
Sonia Gawas, Linda Geevers, Andrea Mandel, Daniel “Dan” Weiss, Martin Whitfield
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Meeting Type:
City Council
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Committee:
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Meeting Date:
10/27/2025
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Recording Published:
10/27/2025
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Duration:
67 Minutes
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Notability Score:
Routine
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State:
New Jersey
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County:
Mercer County
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Towns:
West Windsor
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