56:25A primary focus of the meeting was the impending expiration of the current solid waste collection contract, with bids from two vendors reflecting substantial cost increases. Waste Management submitted the lower bid, yet it was still higher than the past rates. The council presented a detailed five-year data assessment to evaluate the bids, opting to simplify the information for public comprehension. The current system includes once-a-week pickup with additional services during the summer and unlimited bulk pickup. The proposed continuation of this service would cause a 66% increase in costs, translating to an additional $460,000 annually. An alternative proposal suggested maintaining once-a-week pickup year-round, resulting in a 36% increase, or an extra $255,000.

The council weighed the financial implications, expressing concern over potential budget impacts. Any increase over 2% would necessitate cuts in other areas unless state approval was obtained to exceed the cap. Establishing a five-year agreement was debated, with skepticism about the sustainability of such cost hikes, potentially exceeding $3 million over the contract’s duration. Opinions varied, with some members advocating for maintaining current service levels due to their perceived value, particularly during high-volume summer months. Others questioned the justification for the additional costs associated with frequent pickups.

0:00Simultaneously, a resident’s concerns about inadequate street lighting were brought to the council’s attention. The resident, representing neighbors from Ban Drive, detailed the dangers posed by poorly lit streets, particularly between Village Road and Clarksville and near the Casperson Rowing Center. The mayor acknowledged the high costs of streetlight installations and the challenges created by obstructive trees, assuring residents that safety improvements remained a priority despite slow progress.

18:37The council also discussed affordable housing mandates from the Department of Community Affairs, outlining a tight schedule with key deadlines approaching. Concerns were raised about meeting these deadlines, given that 47 towns faced similar pressures. Potential gaps identified in GIS maps could lower housing obligation numbers, offering a glimmer of hope for reducing West Windsor’s commitments.

35:39A significant settlement agreement with Avalon Bay Communities was another focal point. Avalon had filed lawsuits against the township over permit delays and safety concerns, claiming damages for project disruptions. The township countered that permit denials were based on safety issues. The settlement involved a reciprocal agreement where both parties would drop lawsuits, with Avalon abandoning its claims and the township ceasing its litigation concerning windowless bedrooms. This agreement was seen as a resolution to ongoing legal disputes, emphasizing the importance of future building codes prohibiting windowless bedrooms.

18:37Community events featured prominently, with council members expressing satisfaction with the success of recent activities. The “Breakfast with Santa” event, attracting over a thousand attendees, and the inaugural drone light show during the tree lighting ceremony were praised for their smooth execution and positive reception. The Parks and Recreation department considered securing sponsorships for future events to manage costs.

The meeting also highlighted the West Windsor Police Department’s effective use of drones in locating a missing person. Additionally, the council acknowledged the West Windsor Historical Society’s efforts in decorating the Skank Farmstead for the holidays.

35:39Public safety was addressed during the discussion of traffic ordinances, with a resident supporting revised noise management measures in Pens Neck. The council unanimously approved amendments to traffic and parking regulations.