The council’s decision to approve ordinance 2012, which involves various infrastructure projects and the procurement of equipment, was one of the most consequential actions taken during the meeting. The ordinance includes the controversial purchase of a sewer cleaning machine for $640,000, six lifts, and a garbage truck. The equipment purchases are purportedly to ensure compliance with stormwater management regulations. However, this decision did not pass without public criticism, as residents questioned the need for such an expensive sewer cleaning machine and the purchase of additional equipment, especially in the context of the town’s current and potential debt ceiling.

The public comment period was notably contentious, with residents expressing their concerns on multiple fronts. The behavior of Township Committee members at a prior meeting was a point of contention. One resident went as far as reading a poem criticizing the disrespectful treatment of a senior citizen and a seated Township committeeman during the previous meeting. Another resident reprimanded the committee for setting a poor example for the community and its children through their actions.

Moreover, the decision to hold a special meeting itself was questioned by attendees. Accusations were made suggesting that the committee was “playing games” by convening a special session, with one resident emphasizing the lack of proper notice for the meeting and the need for a robo call to inform the community.

Issues regarding the availability and transparency of meeting information were also raised. Residents reported difficulty accessing details about the meeting on the town’s website, with particular challenges noted for mobile device users. These concerns spotlight the necessity for the council to improve how it communicates with the public and ensures information is readily available and transparent.

The conversation among committee members themselves also reflected underlying political tensions. There was a reported disappointment with a fellow member’s conduct, which was described as misleading to residents and marked by a lack of participation in the meeting. This internal discord was addressed by the mayor before adjournment, with a call for all parties to refrain from using town email distribution lists for political purposes and to resolve their differences through the upcoming election process.

Despite the debates and the multitude of concerns aired by the public, the council moved forward with its agenda. Plans to release bids for road resurfacing were discussed.