Following the commendation, the Council shifted focus to the 2024 Municipal budget. The proposed budget prioritized Public Works, Parks, and maintaining the Police Department while managing debt and advancing capital projects. During the public hearing, residents expressed appreciation for the clarity and transparency of the budget process.

In line with the Council’s dedication to community improvement, they reviewed and approved several resolutions and ordinances. These included the adoption of an Industrial Rehabilitation Areas Redevelopment plan, amendments to rental property regulations, and a supplemental bond ordinance for Delaware River improvements. Each ordinance underwent a public hearing phase, though no public comments were made.

In other discussions, ordinance 20-24-8 was addressed, authorizing the execution of a deed related to a municipal tax lien foreclosure. The Council also deliberated on a survey regarding water area access and confirmed a budget request from Senator Single’s office. Additionally, a permit from the Department of Environmental Protection for secondary pipe construction by New Jersey American Water was noted, as was a traffic count on Burlington Avenue by the Delaware Valley Regional Planning Commission.

The Township administrator reported on the progress of various projects including the water access survey, the budget request, and the secondary pipe construction permit. IT Tech projects such as email system migration and fiber optic installation were also on the agenda, alongside the Shade Tree Commission’s request for trees from The Bridge Commission. Moreover, the pre-bid meeting for seawall construction was highlighted.

Police services and community safety remained a central theme as the Chief of Police provided monthly statistics for April. The report included details on police cases, motor vehicle stops, calls for service, and arrests. Notably, the Chief acknowledged community efforts in finding the missing child and the lifesaving actions of two officers. The upcoming graduation of a new officer was mentioned, as well as the need for training in major traffic accident investigations – a responsibility shifting from the State Police to the local department.

The Council also received updates on the status of the Community Development block grant program budget, which was submitted to HUD with funding allocation still pending. Preparations for town events, such as a yard sale and clean-up day, were announced.

Other infrastructure updates included discussions on the Burlington County Commissioners’ budget, especially the increase in open space allocation, which could potentially return municipal grants from the open space fund. The Council approved a motion to conduct a topographic survey of the Babe Ruth field.

In a gesture of community support, the Council decided to donate back a received check to the Fountain of Life Church, recognizing it as a non-profit that could benefit from the funds. The meeting concluded with mention of a consent agenda that passed, addressing ordinances, resolutions, and business licenses.

Finally, the Council entertained public comments, including a vacation announcement by a community member. They addressed issues like affordable housing laws, the status of the Cannabis law, and a proposal to revisit the sign ordinance. The Council suggested a future work session to further discuss these topics with relevant parties.