Delving into the financial details that dominated the meeting, the town’s Chief Financial Officer presented the 2024 budget, highlighting a 3.67% increase in operating costs. Despite this rise, the budget remained under statutory cap limits, thanks to nearly $1.2 million of unused cap dollars from previous years. The average residential tax bill is projected to increase by $2749 for 2024, with the CFO encouraging residents to direct any specific questions to the township. The public hearing on the budget was scheduled for April 23, 2024, allowing for community members to voice their opinions before the final approval.

The budget also emphasized investments in public safety, including the police department, and capital improvements, alongside IT modernization and cybersecurity measures. The discussion on public safety extended to the announcement of the New Jersey Conference of Mayor auto theft task force, addressing a concern in the township. Additionally, the council tackled issues of overdevelopment driven by affordable housing, an ongoing challenge for the community.

The significance of agriculture in Bernards Township was underscored with the unanimous passage of a resolution recognizing National Agricultural Month. Council members and the Agricultural Advisory Committee reflected on the critical role of farming and initiatives to promote and preserve agricultural practices.

Lucy Foron, a long-serving member of the Health Department, was commended upon her retirement, with council members acknowledging her 40 years of dedication, particularly during the challenging COVID-19 pandemic. Her contributions to the community were celebrated as she expressed gratitude for her years of service.

Mary J. McN received recognition for her service as the school board liaison to the Bernards Township Library. The council discussed her contributions, and a representative from the library was present to accept the accolade.

The council also announced upcoming community events and initiatives, including a speaker event for Small Business Week, a Green Yard Sale, and a dedication ceremony for Captain Ford Shaw Way. Plans for a mobile motor vehicle unit to assist residents with Real ID applications were shared.

Public safety featured prominently with the launch of an auto theft task force and the town’s designation as a “healthy town up and coming” by the New Jersey Health Care Quality Institute’s mayor’s wellness campaign. A women’s fulfillment event was also on the agenda for the following day.

The meeting included updates on various township departments. The Recreation, Parks, and Pathways department provided information on repairs to pickleball and tennis facilities, pool memberships, and summer employment opportunities. The library’s construction project was nearing completion, with outreach efforts including a fundraiser and a program to meet township staff.

During the public comment portion, residents brought up concerns and suggestions. The number of police officers on the force was questioned, and a potential error in the budget presentation was pointed out. Lily Wong, a community advocate, requested funding for repairs and enhancements to the pickleball courts at Pleasant Valley Park, emphasizing the sport’s benefits for health and community engagement.