Township of Bethlehem

Discussions during the meeting included public comments regarding parking stickers on private property and associated right-of-ways, and details concerning a county economic development initiative involving a model Home-Based Business/Home Occupation Ordinance. The committee addressed the process for reviewing this model ordinance and potential public input. Significant discussion centered on stormwater management regulations, specifically the required transition from Tier B to Tier A municipality status, which introduces substantial new compliance requirements and costs, such as mandatory street sweeping and GPS mapping of inlets/outfalls. Further agenda items included the approval of executive session minutes from July 21st, support for opposition to restrictive New Jersey ABC rules for brewery licenses, authorization of a contract for the annual fireworks display (partially covered by a county grant), adoption of a resolution for a Stigma-Free Community regarding mental health, support for Senate Bill related to September 11th commemoration education, and approval of liquor license transfers. Updates were provided on Heritage Park, including obtaining a quote for a well driller and coordinating plumbing installation.

Key discussions included a resident's inquiry regarding the Storm Water Pollution Prevention Plan, leading to a commitment to post the document online. The committee adopted minutes from a prior meeting and approved Resolution 20231100 authorizing a partial settlement of litigation with Dupont regarding P Water contamination, noting that the Board of Education is the intended recipient of the proceeds. Financial matters included paying bills totaling $53,532.30 and commencing the annual budget process. A public hearing was held for Ordinance 436-2023 concerning fencing walls and site triangles, which was subsequently adopted. The date for the 2024 Reorganization Meeting was set for January 4, 2024. Authorization was granted to submit the Tier A MS4 Storm Water Pollution Prevention Plan to the NJDEP. Discussions also covered the replacement of a park structure, traffic safety measures (LED flashing signs for speed limits), and potential major investments by JCP&L to improve electrical system resilience, which may involve a rate increase.

The meeting included discussions regarding MS4 tier ordinances that were previously tabled, with clarification that they must be adopted as is due to state preemption, although potential funding for implementation was mentioned. There was extensive discussion concerning a recent vehicle crash on Iron Bridge Road, including clarification of the facts, the issuance of nine traffic summonses to the driver who fled the scene, and the driver's subsequent hospitalization. Public safety reporting detailed statistics for September and October, noting successful firearm and drug interdictions. Other topics included updates on state ordinance deadlines for tree and salt storage ordinances, the award of $175,400 in 2024 local aid grants for milling and paving projects, and consideration of safety measures for Iron Bridge Road, such as installing warning signs with flashing speed indicators or physical barriers like chains, due to ongoing issues with large vehicles using local roads. Finally, the committee discussed and moved to adopt Resolution 2023-93, which establishes a procedural framework for public comment during meetings, specifying time limits for agenda-only comments, ordinance comments, and general open public comment.

The meeting addressed several items, beginning with a public discussion regarding business license fees, where a proprietor sought exemption or reduction based on prior fee structures and county inspection costs. Committee members committed to advocating for the proprietor with the county regarding inspection fees. Other significant discussions included the tabling of a resolution concerning professional services for the Planning Board, the assignment of a Municipal Planning Board member, and a public hearing for an ordinance to amend speed limits on specific routes, with plans to install new signage and request enforcement. Furthermore, updates were provided on several engineering projects, including the Iron Bridge Section One construction schedule, ongoing drainage improvements, and the application for 2023 road grants. Financial matters involved approving payment of bills totaling over $280,000. Department reports covered public safety, public works maintenance, and updates from the finance department regarding tax collection rates.

The meeting included ceremonial elements, such as the Pledge of Allegiance and oaths of office. Key agenda items involved the nomination and appointment of the Mayor and Deputy Mayor, along with authorization for them to solemnize marriages and civil unions. A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to reviewing and appointing professional service providers for 2024, including Bond Counsel, Municipal Attorney, and Risk Management Consultant. Presentations were given by representatives from the Bond Counsel firms (Gibbons and W. G. Goldman & Spitzer) and the Municipal Attorney firm, detailing their qualifications and experience. The committee voted to approve the recommended professionals, noting cost benefits where applicable, and the Risk Management Consultant highlighted the establishment of a safety culture within the township.