The council held a moment of silence for Sergeant Rivers, a respected community member, and veteran who lost his life in a drone attack in Jordan. The council’s gesture of remembrance set a somber and respectful tone at the start of the meeting. Following this, the council presented a plaque to the former deputy mayor, acknowledging her dedication and service to the township.

The meeting then progressed to a discussion on the Green Acres Grant applications, which proposed improvements to the township’s infrastructure and parks. Ms. Deion Balden and Mr. Kendall Brunson, representing the recreation and parks department, presented the grant details, which had garnered favorable responses from over a thousand community members. Most notably, the projects under consideration included enhancements to the Jake Place playground and the installation of pickleball courts in Mill Creek Park.

During the presentation, financial aspects were outlined, such as the funding range and grant coverage percentages. A total capital required for the projects was also presented, with the council addressing concerns related to the playground’s location, noise levels, and accessibility for children with diverse needs. Maintenance and security measures for the park were assured. Councilwoman Samantha Whitfield inquired about matching funds for the grant, prompting Mr. Brunson to clarify that in-kind services could not be utilized to offset capital requirements, with a cash match being necessary.

Councilwoman Dr. Tiffani A. Worthy expressed enthusiasm for the grant application, particularly its potential to increase accessibility in play spaces for the youth. She raised questions about the surface of the playground and its impact on stormwater runoff, to which Ms. Balden responded that the playgrounds would feature a permeable surface to facilitate natural drainage.

During the public hearing for the Jake Place playground, residents voiced concerns regarding the playground’s safety and inclusivity, particularly for children with autism. Piny Harvey Hadley Lan questioned the durability of the cloth shade structures, while Jack W. Mack raised issues about the playground’s impact on the school district. Parent Stephen Craig suggested an alternative park site due to concerns about noise levels at the proposed location. Despite these concerns, the public hearing concluded without a decision.

Discussions also included the construction of pickleball courts, with council members inquiring about the location, fencing, and management of the facility. The council highlighted the sport’s growing popularity and the potential community benefits. Additionally, plans to improve the football field and track were mentioned.

Several resolutions were approved, including grant applications and appointments to the Willingboro Municipal Utility Authority. Public comments addressed compensation and qualifications of a former Township Clerk, the need for speed bumps on a certain street, and procedures for addressing criminal charges against a council member.

Terena Williams commended the reelection of Mayor Kaya McIntosh, Deputy Mayor Nathaniel Anderson, and Councilwoman Dr. Worthy, while also offering condolences for the late Sergeant Rivers and Miss Krena. Williams highlighted the success of the third annual MLK Day of Service and thanked various community contributors, including law enforcement, the food bank, and the Foster Military Lodge. In response to public comments, Brenda Bigon defended her qualifications and salary as related to her role in Vital Statistics.

The council discussed the installation of speed bumps on Buckeye Lane, with Township Manager Mr. Harris and Mr. Cole noting the ongoing assessment of streets, which would align with PSE&G’s gas main replacement project. Mayor McIntosh inquired about the assessment process, receiving confirmation that the assessment was in progress.

Deputy Mayor Anderson expressed the council’s interest in supporting military reserve families, following up on public comments suggesting events to aid these families. During council comments, Deputy Mayor Rebecca Perrone and Councilwoman Dr. Worthy extended condolences for community losses and congratulated various individuals on their achievements and appointments, emphasizing the importance of community involvement in civic progress.