The Woodbridge Township Council meeting held on May 7, 2024, featured a range of discussions, including public comments on community issues and concerns regarding local regulations.

The meeting began with procedural announcements, including guidelines for public participation. Residents were reminded to state their names and township sections when addressing the council and were given a five-minute speaking limit.

One of the first speakers, Gary Ditelmeier from Colonial, shared a heartfelt tribute to veterans in light of the upcoming Memorial Day. He emphasized the sacrifices made by service members, particularly the youth who have fought for freedom. Ditelmeier urged the community to honor these sacrifices by actively remembering and supporting veterans, stating, "Freedom is not free," and highlighting the importance of displaying flags beyond just holidays.

Following Ditelmeier, Suzanne Repnicki Rowland from Avenel raised concerns about a significant increase in the permit fee for backyard chickens, which rose from $35 to $75. She questioned the rationale behind this increase, noting that it represented a 114% hike and compared it to fees in other towns that range from $10 to $50. Rowland argued that backyard chickens contribute positively to sustainability and community well-being, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic when she used them to engage her special education students.

In response to Rowland's concerns, a council member explained that the fee increase was a result of a review process, noting that the fees had not been adjusted in 16 years. However, Rowland expressed dissatisfaction with the explanation, questioning why residents should bear the cost of past inaction.

The meeting concluded with an invitation for further public comments, indicating an ongoing dialogue between the council and the community regarding local governance and regulations. The discussions highlighted the council's commitment to addressing resident concerns while also reflecting the community's values around freedom, sustainability, and responsible governance.