24:33A significant portion of the meeting was devoted to the presentation on stormwater management led by Miss Elizabeth Treadway from WSP. She outlined the results of a feasibility study aimed at evaluating the township’s stormwater system. The study highlighted that many components of the stormwater infrastructure, valued between $45 to $50 million, are over sixty years old and stressed the importance of updating the management plan, which has not been revised since 2007. Treadway underscored the increasing frequency of extreme rain events in New Jersey, with 42 occurrences reported in the last fifty years, necessitating an optimal performance from the stormwater system to mitigate potential flooding.

44:49The renewed stormwater quality permits, effective January 1, 2023, introduced by the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (DEP), require municipalities to meet more standards. These include a 50% increase in street sweeping programs to reduce debris affecting water quality. Such mandates will require additional resources, both in terms of equipment and personnel. Treadway emphasized the importance of public engagement and education in maintaining the stormwater system, with residents playing a role in its upkeep. The council was encouraged to proactively plan and allocate funds for stormwater-related expenses, which currently stand at $950,000 annually but are projected to require around $3 million for effective management.

0:28Infrastructure projects were another key focus, with township engineer Mr. Russell Chapola updating the council on the progress of various initiatives. Five bids were received for the reconstruction of Buckingham Drive, with Earl Construction selected as the low bidder at $266,013. Notices to proceed were also issued for the reconstruction of Marshall Lane. Sidewalk reconstruction projects are ongoing, and plans for the renovation of the Performing Arts Center are in place, with a payment request of $64,500 for additional sheetrock work. Discussions about the Kennedy Center Library relocation and Senior Center renovation were also on the agenda, with concept drawings expected by the end of March.

1:08:31The council further addressed a grant application to the New Jersey Department of Community Affairs for $500,000 aimed at improving the Willingboro Community Center. A separate resolution involved applying for funding from the Department of Environmental Protection to purchase two new battery-electric trucks and set up a DC fast charging station, contributing to the township’s sustainability efforts. The township has already received a grant of approximately $472,000 to support the purchase of electric vehicles.

1:28:06Public comments during the meeting brought to light several community concerns. Residents voiced issues related to rising taxes, particularly in light of recent property assessments. One resident warned of possible unaffordable living conditions resulting from escalating home values, referencing a similar situation in Princeton. Other community members raised concerns about trash management, urging the township to increase inspections and educate residents on proper trash disposal practices.

1:08:31The meeting also recognized the contributions of women in the community in honor of Women’s History Month, with residents expressing gratitude for their service and dedication. Council members took the opportunity to promote upcoming community events, such as the “Super Summer Willingboro” program, which aims to provide educational and recreational opportunities for students during the summer months.

1:47:39In response to public comments, the council addressed concerns about a recent program that appeared exclusive. It was clarified that the program was vendor-sponsored, not township-initiated, and the council committed to ensuring future programs are inclusive. Concerns about the rain garden maintenance at the Kennedy Center and issues related to littering were also acknowledged, with the council committing to developing strategies to address these challenges.