During the meeting, the mayor proclaimed September 2024 as Prostate Cancer Awareness Month. This proclamation underscored statistics, such as the 299,000 annual diagnoses of prostate cancer in the U.S. and the projected 35,250 deaths for the same year. In New Jersey alone, an estimated 9,860 new cases and 740 deaths are expected in 2024. The proclamation emphasized the critical importance of education and early detection, noting that the five-year survival rate for early-stage prostate cancer is nearly 100%, compared to just 31% for late-stage diagnoses. This proclamation aimed to raise awareness and encourage preventive measures among the community.

A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to the discussion regarding the approval of the bill list. Concerns were raised about the completeness of the bill list, with a member stating, “the bill list should contain every single bill every single payment every single check that we write and it has never been complete.” This member highlighted the necessity of seeing all payments before approval, emphasizing the need for transparency and accountability in the township’s financial dealings.

The council debated the process for preparing the bill list, with references made to communication issues and the need for efficiency in financial reporting. Mention was made of a new system being implemented by the new CFO, aimed at streamlining reporting and providing clearer insights into expenses such as overtime and per diem through a pivot report. Despite these efforts, the ongoing issue of incomplete financial information persisted, with the mayor reiterating the importance of resolving the issue to improve council efficiency and communication.

Amid the discussion, one member suggested a motion to approve the bill list contingent upon receiving the missing information. Eventually, a brief recess was called to allow a committee member to review the bill list, leading to a subsequent vote on the payment of bills through September 3rd, which passed with a 3-1 vote.

In addition to financial matters, the council addressed community concerns. Resident Heather Kelly voiced frustrations about unresolved issues from nearly a year ago, specifically pointing out problems with cement work and related grass planting. She also expressed concerns about stones left on her property by the township, fearing potential damage to a neighbor’s property and possible liability. The council responded, but the resolution of these issues remained unclear.

The council also discussed the mayoral appointment for the Backyard Chicken Advisory Committee. Jamie was named chair, Odis as vice chair, and other members and alternates were listed. The group was instructed to name a secretary, though it was clarified that signatures were not required.

The meeting also included routine procedural matters, such as the approval of minutes from the August 13, 2024, regular meeting and executive session, both of which passed following roll call votes. Additionally, the council approved the annual financial audit for 2023 with a 4-0 vote.

Public comments brought further community issues to light. Resident G Baron provided insight into parliamentary procedures, suggesting a motion under “subura” to facilitate bill payment. The council also noted upcoming community events and meetings, including the next Township meeting on September 17th.

During committee reports, it was mentioned that the Historic Preservation Commission did not meet due to a lack of applications. However, there was anticipation of a letter from a leadership member seeking to strengthen the committee’s role through ordinance changes. Another report highlighted a New Jersey Turnpike Authority meeting discussing the removal of approximately 1,500 trees, raising concerns about the lack of replanting in certain areas. The member suggested finding alternative locations for replanting, particularly in areas affected by beavers or other community needs.

The council commended a community engagement event hosted by Change Church, which involved a book bag giveaway and provided food and entertainment for families. The event’s positive turnout was highlighted as an example of effective community engagement.