The council shared their admiration for Eubanks’ contributions.

Mayor Shelley Brindle then addressed the proposed affordable housing legislation, voicing concerns about the rushed nature of the bill and the unclear details regarding municipal housing obligations. She stressed the potential financial burden on taxpayers and the inequitable model of state aid allocation for towns meeting their affordable housing requirements. Councilwoman Linda Habgood provided updates from the finance policy committee, including an ordinance related to police and fire department salaries and a grant application for Tacis Park tennis courts. Notably, the council discussed amending the rates for the annual sewer fees due to increased costs from the Rahway Valley Sewage Authority. The proposed changes include a $20 increase for single-family homes, a 13% rise for condominiums, apartments, and townhouses, and a $58 hike for commercial properties.

The council also considered a resolution to adopt a community energy plan that would position Westfield to pursue grant opportunities up to $250,000. Another notable item was the discussion of a redevelopment agreement for the Martin Wallberg American Legion Post site, aiming to create housing for at-risk veterans and facilities for veterans, funded through a mix of private donations, grants, and the town’s affordable housing trust fund.

Public safety was a recurring theme, with the council addressing car thefts and related crimes, urging state lawmakers for stronger deterrent legislation. In response to public input, Sean Mullen accused Councilman Michael Dardia of misusing his authority by directing the police to prevent political opponents from displaying signage at a public event. A debate followed regarding the enforcement of a town ordinance on the display of signs on town property, with calls for its repeal.

Two public hearings were held for General Ordinance numbers 20243 and 20244, concerning town code amendments and fixing salaries for police and fire department employees, respectively. Both ordinances were adopted without extensive debate.

Citizens expressed concerns during the open discussion, including the impact of construction on public infrastructure and resources. Rich Panuski of the Westfield Advocates for Responsible Development called for a cumulative impact analysis of construction projects. Other residents raised issues related to overdevelopment, questioning the funding and timing of the Quimby renovation project and the overall impact of development on traffic, school crowding, and taxes.

The council engaged in a heated discussion over a resolution demanding action from Governor Murphy and the New Jersey legislature to combat car thefts. Councilman Dardia emphasized the importance of collaboration, while Councilman Contract criticized the lack of inclusivity in the development of the resolution. Despite disagreements, the council approved several resolutions related to financial matters, including budget transfers and grant applications.