Township of Chatham

The meeting involved discussions following heavy snowfall, including acknowledgments to the DPW and first responders for snow clearing efforts, and a request for residents to clear sidewalks for safety, noting the lack of an ordinance mandating this. The committee also acknowledged the loss of a community member, Nelson Hurt. Updates were provided on student and sports team achievements, including the Chattam High School swim team's championship streak and middle school students' success in a STEM competition. Committee members reported on upcoming Environmental Commission seminars regarding light pollution, the installation dinner for the Chattam Township Fire Department where awards were distributed, and the Planning Board's reorganization. The Senior Center is planning its spring garden tour. The Library announced several upcoming programs, including an introduction to Irish genealogy, a tax planning presentation for retirees, and a chocolate tasting event. An open leadership position on the Open Space Advisory Committee was noted. The committee introduced three ordinances: one for amending building and housing fees, one for amending zoning permit fees, and one mandated ordinance related to lead-based paint inspections. A resident raised concerns regarding the allocation of Open Space Trust Funds, the need for televising Planning Board meetings, and requested a summary of incremental tax revenue from the former Dixieale property.

The meeting commenced with a return from executive session into public session. The first order of business included the flag pledge, followed by the first hearing of citizens, which concluded with no in-person or online comments received. Key administrative discussions involved ratifying the appointment of a part-time administrative assistant for fire prevention and engineering/tree permit functions. A salary resolution for an increased rate of $41 an hour for the agreement with the Board of Education for SEO services is forthcoming. Under the clerk's report, the committee is scheduled to introduce an ordinance concerning lead-based paint inspections to comply with state law. In construction and building matters, two draft ordinances were presented: one to separate zoning fees into the land use section and another to revamp construction fees based on recent discussions and state feedback. Engineering updates included planning to submit an application for the annual local recreation infrastructure grant to fund pool and playground updates, though specific equipment shown in renderings is conceptual for estimating purposes. Further discussions covered the pending construction for 'Estra' slated for the spring/summer and continued delays in receiving documentation from a contractor for the 2014 Safe Routes to School project.

The meeting included an executive session followed by the first hearing of citizens and a flag salute. Key discussion points during public comment focused on the recent resolution authorizing the YMCA Colony Pool Services Agreement, with concerns raised about the lack of prior advisory committee input, the potential impact on resident use due to YMCA day passes, and the status of beloved annual events. Another resident inquired about obtaining public information, specifically requesting planning board meetings be taped/YouTubed, access to meeting jump drives online, and the feasibility of transcribing meetings. Additionally, support was voiced for the Environmental Commission's grant application to update the Natural Resources Inventory (NRI), which is crucial for land use planning and the upcoming 2027 master plan update. There was also an inquiry regarding the timeline for hiring summer employees for Colony Pool. Administrative items slated for future legislation included a resolution concerning the sale of town-owned land on River Road for an affordable housing development project.

The meeting began with the formal call to order and confirmation of adequate public notice according to the Open Public Meetings Act. Key proceedings involved the administration of oaths of office for newly elected township committee members, including Mrs. Ewald and Mr. Michael Troy. Following the oaths, nominations and subsequent roll call votes were held for the positions of Mayor, resulting in the swearing-in of Jen Roland, and Deputy Mayor, resulting in the swearing-in of Marty McHugh. The agenda was then approved, followed by the approval of the consent agenda. The session included a public comment period, although no citizens addressed the committee. The meeting concluded after a closing prayer and a motion to adjourn.

The meeting commenced with the administration of the Oath of Office to several members. The agenda included the reorganization of the Board with selections for Chairman, Vice Chair, and Secretary. Key resolutions were listed for consideration, covering legal, engineering, planning services, board management roles, newspaper designation, and the establishment of the meeting schedule and official electronic medium for notices. The agenda also noted a Resolution of Denial for the Cedar Maple LLC minor subdivision application. Discussions were scheduled regarding detached garages and detached structures. Applications pending review status were also noted.