The budget presentation was a focal point of the meeting, with analysis of tax rate allocations, state aid, and budget comparisons from 2020 to 2024. The 2024 budget proposed a 1.3% increase in the local municipal tax rate, potentially affecting homeowner costs based on property assessments. The largest budget allocations were dedicated to Public Safety and Public Works, ensuring the hiring of replacement employees in the police, public works, and fire departments. The council balanced budget increases with cuts in other areas and planned to replenish the surplus with new revenue in the coming years.

Public Safety was also a prominent topic, as the council addressed issues like no heat in rental units and the importance of keeping rental properties up to code. The council’s engagement with a local business operating an outdoor gun range raised questions about the business’s community contributions and compliance with safety regulations. Meetings with the Sportsman Club have been initiated to discuss noise control and other concerns related to the gun range.

Community events and initiatives were highlighted, including a successful household cleanup, the reopening of the fire department, and upcoming activities such as a downtown dog parade and a concert in the park. The council also noted the successful carnival event, a new business opening, a local baseball team’s donation to the food pantry, and encouraged participation in an upcoming yard sale.

The council celebrated the completion of a handgun switch in the police department, which reportedly improved accuracy and skill. Recognition was given to Officer Anthony Marshall and K9 Siika for their outstanding service. The council also reported on their attendance at the annual Crime Victims breakfast, expressing solidarity with victims and their stories.

Swatting calls, a disturbing trend where false emergency calls are reported to dispatch services, were addressed as a significant public safety concern, with the council discussing the challenges in tracing these calls.

The meeting included discussions on several site plan applications, including a warehouse addition and the proposed opening of a Mexican food restaurant. Additionally, a request for a one-year extension for a pocketed liquor license and vacancies on the Planning and Zoning boards were deliberated.