Laura’s Notes on the 06/09/2026 Berkeley Heights Town Council Meeting
The June 9, 2026 Council meeting opened up with a recognition of the GL Girls Varsity Softball team followed by a proposal (and subsequent approval) for an Eagle Scout project.
Medeiros presented the Township’s Energy Plan which entails a plan to promote a more sustainable BH.
Poage presented an ordinance ban on AI Data centers. Several residents spoke in favor of passing the ordinance while some cautioned swift action as there are benefits to Data Centers.
The citizens hearing featured questions regarding Sherman Avenue project which is currently on hold as the Town is awaiting supplies. NJ21st was recently made aware that the initial project, pitched in 2022, was to include necessary drainage which was going to be funded through grants from Connell. A project report from the Township’s website reflects this question being asked during a 2024 Q&A in which a response regarding the land being pitched to avoid flooding would take place.
An email provided to us from a resident reflects Township Administrator Viana inquiring about the contract between Connell and the Township for a multi-year payout for the project. The NJ21st team will be filing an OPRA to obtain more emails from this chain. The Sherman Avenue project is set to resume later this summer. It is the hope of the Township that this area can be “closed off” to allow for things like farmers markets. Go figure.
A resident asked for a future presentation and update on what is happening with the Nokia property. Devanney reported that although the Township is still in the middle of negotiations that the majority of the space would be age restricted residential property with recreational land earmarked for what the town hopes will be a multi-use field (but we all remember what happened with the Lower Columbia turf field) An undevelopable part of land, designated as such by the DEP, will remain woodlands and a parcel of the property will be commercial as it is not able to be converted into residential property. It was reported that New Providence is planning a boutique-style hotel with some other mixed developments.
A book and self-proclaimed library lover commented that the Township is spending far too much money on our library with its annual $1.7 allocation. The resident cited ‘bloat with personnel’ that far outnumber the daily patrons. The resident also noted that the fact our library has purchased and is promoting rentals of such items as a power washer or upholstery vacuum is not a proper use of taxpayer money and also taking away business from other local businesses. Devanney encouraged the resident to attend a library board meeting to share the concerns.
The status of Columbia project start was questioned. Viana responded that things are in progress but there is no start date.
The funding for World Cup was questioned as the Township did not receive the grant it applied for and how the money being spent will impact the budget. Viana responded by stating that the Township allocated budget money for the events and through fundraising efforts, funding was readily available. However, specific fundraising efforts or the amount raised was not disclosed.
A resident cites potential OPMA violation in failure to publish the bill list less than 48 hours prior to the meeting. The attorney noted that the agenda is required to be posted, but the bill list was a courtesy; the resident urges the Township to do better.
Before the fluff Council reports and Devanney’s summer vacation plans, a resident conveyed excitement for the fireworks to return to the Feast of Mt. Carmel.
See Notes on the 06/09 Meeting Agenda
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