The council’s discussion on affordable housing was a focal point of the meeting, with an emphasis on compliance with the Council on Affordable Housing (COA) regulations. The town is transitioning from the third to the fourth round of affordable housing obligations, with a deadline for compliance set for June 30, 2025. The council is under pressure to meet a looming deadline of January 31st for adopting these figures.

The session also addressed the upcoming special election scheduled for March 11, 2025, by the Willingboro Public School Board of Education. This election seeks voter approval for over $175 million in improvements to school infrastructure, including repairs to school roofs and upgrades to media centers and gymnasiums. Council members emphasized the significance of community engagement in this process, urging residents to participate in the election and stay informed through the school district’s communications.

In other business, Mr. Harris reported on several municipal updates, noting advancements in public safety and infrastructure. Noteworthy initiatives include the implementation of two-factor authentication systems to bolster cybersecurity and the installation of new security cameras at key municipal buildings. Additionally, safety measures were enhanced with the introduction of panic buttons at the Department of Public Works.

The council was briefed on recent achievements within the fire department, where Michaela Park and Dante Maro were recognized for their graduation from the firefighter program. The retirement of firefighter Christopher Clark after two decades of service was also acknowledged, with well-wishes for his future endeavors. Meanwhile, the Emergency Medical Services (EMS) department was commended for generating over $850,000 in billing revenue, which will support the hiring of additional emergency medical technicians.

Financial updates were shared, including the preparation of the annual debt statement and financial statements, signaling the township’s focus on fiscal responsibility. This was complemented by the introduction of several ordinances and resolutions aimed at enhancing municipal operations and addressing community issues. Among these were amendments to solid waste management regulations, prompted by improper medical waste storage incidents.

The council also heard from Claudine Archer of the Beloved Project, who presented an overview of the organization’s efforts to combat homelessness and food insecurity in Willingboro. Archer highlighted the organization’s initiatives, which include providing emergency shelter during harsh winter conditions and offering assistance with utility payments and transitional housing. The Beloved Project’s approach to addressing homelessness involves mediation between tenants and landlords and partnerships with local law enforcement to provide essential resources to those in need.

She emphasized the challenges faced by those unable to secure housing due to rental requirements and underscored the importance of community collaboration in addressing these issues. The Beloved Project’s outreach efforts include distributing food and essential items to families, with approximately 700 families benefiting each month from their services.

Additionally, the meeting covered preparations for Black History Month events, with a schedule of activities designed to celebrate and promote local culture and entrepreneurship. The month-long celebration will feature art exhibits, open mic nights, and a Black Business Boulevard, all aimed at fostering community engagement and support for local businesses.

Issues raised included the improper placement of garbage cans after collection and delays in leaf removal services, both of which were acknowledged by the council with commitments to address these matters.