The budget discussion revealed a lack of consensus among the council members and the administration. The Chief Financial Officer, Mr. Ricky Garts, presented an overview that included a local municipal levy increase of 3.74% and a conservative approach to budgeting due to limited revenue resources. However, council members raised questions about the decrease in Surplus over the years and the implications for the 2024 budget. The debate centered on interpreting the financial data, managing the budget deficit, and the need for detailed explanations for the proposed figures.

Concerns extended to specific budget items such as public work salary and wages, police salaries, and overall budget stability. Some council members expressed skepticism about the optimistic outlook for attaining a Surplus of $700,000 and were dissatisfied with the administration’s answers regarding cost reduction measures. Additional scrutiny was directed towards the reduction in the police budget and the plan to replace officers lost through attrition.

The handling of beach meter revenues was another issue, with questions about the justification for their allocation to the current fund and potential legal implications. Resident comments called for a forensic audit, criticized the administration, and highlighted the need for transparency and accountability in the budgeting process.

Amidst the financial discussions, the council recognized the 140th anniversary of Carney Bank and discussed community events like Arbor Day and the planting of trees. The director of recreation, Courtney Papis, provided updates on department activities, including plans for a pre-kindergarten summer camp and teen programs, and the council approved minutes and other administrative matters.

A significant portion of public comments reflected dissatisfaction with the town’s responsiveness to issues such as housing inspections, financial management, and administrative conduct. Points of contention included the mayor’s behavior, the need for a 2023 audit before approving the budget, and the roles of two business administrators. The allocation of COVID-19 funds and the transparency of the budget planning process were also questioned.

Additionally, the council approved various resolutions, including amendments to ensure superintendent compliance with Jersey D requirements, and discussed community events and grants for local projects. However, the restoration of Silver Lake emerged as a significant topic, with the commission expressing optimism about progress after a long-standing issue. The police report detailed various arrests, and the Shade Tree Commission reported on tree-related activities.

The meeting concluded with public comments that included frustration over a bond expenditure, the need for financial controls, and concerns about the accuracy of information provided by the mayor and other officials. An executive session was held, followed by the adoption of a resolution regarding a borough employee disciplinary matter.