Julia Edmondson

The committee held a public hearing for an ordinance amending solid waste and recycling fees to align with county rates. Departmental reports covered a variety of topics, including a DEP grant for a tree inventory, a sidebar agreement for the police association, and updates on Take Your Child to Work Day. Discussion topics included planning for the upcoming National Night Out, progress on affordable housing compliance, a subgrantee agreement for a handicapped ramp project, and preparations for various town-wide events such as a yard sale, shredding event, and community cleanup. Additionally, the committee discussed veterans banners, refurbishment of a historical sneak box boat, and reported on meetings concerning land use, recreation, court security, and centennial planning. The mayor presented proclamations for two centenarian residents and discussed legislative updates from a South Jersey mayors meeting, while the sewer authority reported on a bid award for lateral relining and infrastructure improvements. The meeting concluded with an Arbor Day proclamation.

The committee held a public hearing for the adoption of the 2026 municipal budget, which involved discussions regarding state health benefit increases and solid waste collection costs. A fire official presented fireworks safety plans for an upcoming event, covering safety zones and food truck coordination. Departmental reports included an update on the township's affordable housing consent order, progress on multiple road and infrastructure projects, and a report on a successful shredding event. Additionally, the committee discussed workplace violence prevention training and upcoming community events like the Centennial Car Show.

The meeting included a moment of silence for deceased residents, a proclamation honoring the new African-American chief of police, and an update on the acquisition of land at 401 Creek Road via a bond ordinance. Public comments covered support for the land acquisition, the status of environmental due diligence for the property, feedback on tax revenue from warehouses, and frustration regarding missed building inspections.

The committee held a public hearing and conducted a second reading for an ordinance concerning the amendment of the municipal code regarding zoning and signage. Key discussion topics included the consistency review of the sign ordinance, the technical challenges regarding sign definitions and setbacks for temporary, real estate, and feather flag-style signs, and the distinction between residential and commercial sign regulations. Following deliberations, the committee voted to adopt the ordinance with minor editorial corrections.

The meeting included reports on administrative issues, tax appeals, and ongoing infrastructure projects such as the road program, park improvements, and bulkhead wall repairs. Discussions were held regarding the potential addition of a clock to the park project and the procurement of municipal services via state contract. The municipal budget for 2026 was introduced, with a public hearing scheduled for a later date. Additionally, the committee discussed police department statistics, school safety drills, and public works activities, including tree and brush removal, park maintenance, and signage repairs.