The council detailed three funding streams for regenerating the fund balance: revenue in excess of the budget, budget cancellations, and unspent appropriation reserves. The analysis presented showed a projected surplus reserve in cash at $7.1 million. The council adhered to a use of fund balance policy dictating the amount of surplus to be retained after funding the budget. The tax rates for the township, school, and county were also discussed, with the council adopting the golf utility budget for the year.

During the public comment period, residents raised questions about specific budget items, such as the necessity of a $40,000 gatehouse and the purchase of three new police cars. Additionally, there was a call for the council to pursue more grants for additional funding. The council members expressed their satisfaction with the careful preparation of the budget, emphasizing the focus on public safety, responsible budgeting, increasing capital spending, and avoiding deferring financial issues to future administrations.

The meeting touched upon the placement of automatic external defibrillators (AEDs) in public parks. The debate centered on the effectiveness of AEDs in remote locations and the need for proper training, with some members suggesting that first aid training might be more beneficial. Despite concerns about the effectiveness and training, the council acknowledged the life-saving potential of AEDs, with one member clarifying that the committee was looking into the AED request.

The council also discussed the state of affordable housing in the town. One council member expressed opposition to the idea of allowing “mini houses,” citing concerns about zoning and overcrowding. The council underscored the importance of being proactive and transparent in addressing affordable housing issues, expressing confidence in the experts hired to address these concerns.

Signage within the town was another point of discussion, with residents and council members alike addressing the proliferation of signs, visual pollution, and the deterioration of existing signs. The issue of political signs sparked a debate over the First Amendment, with one member arguing against imposing restrictions on signs, citing the constitutional protection of political speech.

In addition to the budget and safety discussions, the meeting recognized important community initiatives and events. The council approved a resolution proclaiming Arbor Day in Bernards Township and honored the Shade Tree Commission for their work, with an upcoming Arbor Day activity including the distribution of small saplings to residents. Another resolution recognized April as Autism Awareness Month, praising the efforts of Parents of Exceptional Children (PEC) in raising awareness and supporting families.

The meeting also saw updates on community events and projects, such as the opening of a new golf course, a fundraising run, improvements to the local library, and the dedication ceremony for Captain Shaw’s road. The library’s initiatives, including outreach and membership during National Library Week, were commended, and the council discussed exploring grant programs for a generator for the library’s HVAC system.

Finally, the council highlighted upcoming events, including Small Business Week, a focus on seniors, and a presentation on Parks and Recreation, along with public safety updates like the installation of license plate readers and encouragement of neighborhood watches. Plans for a safety Q&A at the library and safety presentations at the Board of Trustees meeting were also shared.