During the meeting, the council engaged in a discussion about the capital budget presentation for the year 2024. A notable recommendation from the finance committee was to upgrade the radio equipment for First Responders, a move aimed at enhancing operational efficiency and safety. The committee also advocated for the purchase of a new sanitation truck for the Department of Public Works (DPW) to ensure reliability and adherence to environmental standards. The council members examined the ramifications of not proceeding with the purchase, considering the age and repair costs of the existing truck against the potential risks of delay.

Further capital budget considerations included new safety equipment for the fire department and the replacement of Borough Hall’s flooring, with half of the cost potentially covered by a Union County infrastructure grant. The council also debated upgrading the audio and video equipment in the meeting room to facilitate better communication and increase transparency for public meetings. The importance of prioritizing safety was a recurring theme throughout the meeting, with the council exploring various funding options for these future upgrades.

The allocation of infrastructure grant funds prompted a debate among council members, who deliberated on prioritizing projects such as municipal flooring, a heat pump system for the Public Works building, sidewalk installation, ADA improvements, and the purchase of light pole banners. The extension of the sidewalk project emerged as a priority, aligning with the council’s vision of creating a more pedestrian-friendly environment and encouraging foot traffic into downtown. The possibility of securing additional funds from the Kids Rec Trust Grant for security cameras was also discussed. The council tentatively agreed to earmark the remaining grant funds for the flooring and sidewalk projects.

Amid the infrastructure discussions, the council took time to express gratitude for the successful organization of the Poetry Festival by Councilwoman M. The event was praised for its positive impact on the community and the turnout, with the council members commending the contributions of volunteers.

However, another issue arose when an ordinance concerning the fire department came up for adoption. Errors within the ordinance, particularly related to the title of the fire department chief and certification requirements for fire department officials, were highlighted by members of the public. The potential for legal complications if the inaccuracies were not resolved was brought to the council’s attention. The discussion expanded to encompass previous accusations related to the fire department, with a focus on ensuring compliance with certification requirements to mitigate legal risks.

The Garwood Small Business Alliance (GSBA) provided a report on the upcoming Taste of Garwood event, which aimed to include every local restaurant in the promotion running from May 17th to May 24th. Efforts to update the borough’s sign ordinance, which has remained unchanged since the 1980s, were also discussed.

Public comments brought to light various concerns, including disappointment with the progress of tree planting projects, questions regarding the hiring of a part-time Administrative Assistant, and the condition of the rug in the council chambers. These comments prompted responses from the council, which aimed to address the issues raised and provide clarity on the council’s positions and actions.

As the meeting progressed, the council moved to accept the minutes of the special budget meeting and the regular meeting, followed by ordinance adoptions, including establishing a cap bank, which Bruce Patterson questioned. The cap bank’s purpose, as recommended by the auditor, was explained to ensure financial management flexibility.

The meeting concluded with standing reports from various committees, including finance, personnel, community development, public works, police and public safety, community engagement, library, school board liaison, senior citizen, and small business advisory. Updates included the reinstatement of a firefighter to the rank of Captain, discussions about police staffing, parking issues, community programs, and events. The council then moved to adopt the consent agenda and adjourned.