The revocation of permits for Sequest, an animal facility known for repeated violations, was a focal point of the Woodbridge Township Council meeting. An administrative order and notice of revocation were hand-delivered to Sequest on January 31, with New Jersey Fish and Wildlife poised to seize regulated animals unless an appeal is lodged within 15 days. The revocation does not impact the facility’s farm permit, which allows for domestic animals such as cats, fish, iguanas, flying squirrels, and parakeets. Plans are in place to relocate these domestic animals to reputable sanctuaries.

A speaker at the meeting urged the council to ensure local compliance regarding Sequest, stating, “You have remained complacent in this animal cruelty the entire time that I’ve been coming here.” The speaker appealed for the council to work with New Jersey Fish and Wildlife and other agencies to evaluate the welfare of the remaining animals and monitor Sequest’s bankruptcy proceedings. A recent court hearing in Idaho denied Sequest’s attempt to sell its assets to an investor, intensifying calls for the council to revoke the farm permit, clearing the path for transferring animals to sanctuaries.

Another public comment underscored Woodbridge’s silver Sustainable Jersey certification and suggested a resolution to ban interactive animal facilities to mitigate zoonotic disease risks. The council members expressed willingness to explore this proposal further, acknowledging prior discussions on similar ordinances. Alternatives such as educational exhibits, which engage the public without involving live animals, were proposed as potential replacements for Sequest’s vacated space.

Budget discussions were also prominent at the meeting. Amendments to the fiscal year 2025 budget were approved unanimously after a public hearing yielded no comments. The budget, praised for its minimal tax increase and absence of new debt issuance, was commended for its provisions for capital projects. The mayor lauded Chief Financial Officer Manny Fernandez and Deputy CFO Mike Klepchick for their roles in the budget preparation, which took longer than usual due to state technicalities. The council president echoed these sentiments, highlighting the administration’s efforts in maintaining minimal tax increases in recent years.

The council meeting also celebrated Black History Month, which included a flag-raising ceremony. Mayor John McCormac introduced members of the Human Rights Commission and acknowledged its reformation in 2020 following community unrest. Glenn Morgan, the commission chairman, emphasized the importance of African-American contributions to American history and encouraged community participation in Human Rights Commission meetings. Morgan also highlighted an annual essay contest for fifth graders, focused on diversity, equity, and inclusion, and praised the quality of the students’ submissions.

Kyle Anderson, Woodbridge’s first elected Black councilman, also addressed the gathering. The council president commended the Human Rights Commission for its positive impact since its reformation, while the mayor encouraged exploration of resources on the township’s website, including vignettes on notable Black leaders.

The meeting also featured numerous community announcements and initiatives. The Greenway Family Success Center outlined events for February, including a Black History Month brunch and learn, a fair housing workshop, and a father-daughter dance. The Chamber of Commerce announced the 2025 state of the township address lunch, with Mayor McCormac presenting. The Woodbridge Broncos recreation program received appreciation for its recent banquet, and the Woodbridge Hall of Fame is accepting nominations for distinguished alumni.

Additionally, the council discussed ongoing roadwork by the Middlesex Water Company and traffic calming measures on Bar Avenue. A public comment suggested an independent audit of the township’s budget, which a council member countered by highlighting current budget management efforts.