The most significant topic of discussion was the potential integration of the Willingboro Public Library into the Burlington County Library System. Council members debated the implications of such a move, particularly the potential loss of local control over library operations and the risk of the library’s closure. One council member expressed concerns regarding the procedures for branch closures and whether materials would be returned to Willingboro or absorbed by the county system. It was clarified during the meeting that the county does not possess the authority to shut down the library. Willingboro would continue to control its physical space and funding.

Residents and council members alike emphasized the importance of maintaining the library as a community resource. The council acknowledged the need to hear from library staff about their perspectives on the proposed changes and suggested that public comments be facilitated to gather more input. Additionally, the council considered relocating the library from its current location in the Town Center to the revamped JFK Center. The proposed new site could provide between 12,000 to 17,000 square feet, compared to the existing facility’s 42,000 square feet, some of which is currently underutilized. Several council members supported the move, citing increased visibility and foot traffic at the JFK Center, particularly during times when parents drop off children for sports activities. Concerns about homelessness at the current library location were also discussed, with suggestions that relocating might alleviate these problems.

In conjunction with library discussions, the council tackled the issue of local pools, focusing on evaluation and repair strategies for three pools: Penny Packer, Country Club, and Hawthorne. The municipal engineer reported on ongoing repairs and emergency projects, including a significant leak at the Penny Packer pool and the deteriorating splash pad at the same location. A proposal amounting to $39,000 was mentioned for a comprehensive evaluation of the three pools, contrasting with a previously higher estimate of $155,000 for a futuristic plan.

The council debated the necessity of the proposed repairs, especially concerning the Country Club pool. It was noted that the cost to repair existing issues was estimated at around $400,000, prompting questions about whether a full assessment of the pool’s condition was warranted. A recommendation was made to consider abandoning the problematic pipe beneath the pool and restructuring the pool to be shallower, replacing diving boards with slides as part of a redesign. This approach aimed to provide a functional pool within the existing footprint while addressing underlying issues.

Infrastructure updates were another important topic, with the municipal engineer highlighting positive outcomes from the council’s emphasis on infrastructure. Scheduled repairs to sidewalks and stormwater systems are progressing through the fall. An emergency repair at Vance Skyver Parkway due to a sinkhole, not initially included in the scheduled repairs, is also underway. Fourteen roads have been paved this year, with additional paving planned for Marshall Lane in the fall. The council submitted plans to the Department of Transportation for the next 15 roads to be paved using Infrastructure Bank funds.

The meeting also included discussions on public safety, particularly concerning vehicle break-ins. A representative provided insights into these incidents and highlighted the importance of community awareness and vigilance. Additionally, the police department reported no significant incidents in the Avery area, but noted ongoing issues with thefts from motor vehicles, typically involving unlocked cars. The department has identified some suspects in other municipalities and is working to establish connections with local incidents.

Several ordinances and resolutions were reviewed, including Ordinance 15, which aims to amend the township’s code regarding tree removal and replacement, mandated by the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP). Ordinance 16 addresses the adoption of revised flood hazard maps and designates a floodplain administrator. Ordinance 24-7 modifies stormwater control provisions to align with recent NJDEP mandates.

Public comments were invited on agenda items, with residents expressing enthusiasm for the tree ordinance and inquiring about the communication strategy for residents regarding tree removal and replacement. Concerns were raised about the prioritization of street repaving, with residents questioning the overall strategy for identifying streets in need of repaving.

The council also discussed an economic development mixer aimed at strengthening the business community in Willingboro. The proposed event date of September 30 was considered, with the intention of fostering connections among local business owners and providing access to resources. The rationale behind choosing a Monday was that many businesses, especially in the beauty sector, are closed that day, making it easier for owners to attend. The motion to proceed with the mixer was unanimously supported.