The reassessment program, which will occur in a five-year cycle assessing 20% of properties each year, was a focal point of the meeting. One resident highlighted the strain of increasing property taxes, noting, “My taxes went up by $500 this year,” and questioned whether the council had budgeted for these changes. The resident emphasized the need for relief, stating, “We can’t keep doing this to ourselves.” Another resident inquired whether those receiving tax exemptions, such as senior citizens, would be affected by the forthcoming increases.

Further discussion revealed confusion surrounding the reassessment process. A resident asked if being in the first 20% meant their taxes would be raised before the others. The council clarified that not all assessments would lead to an increase, as adjustments are based on property values and market conditions. However, concerns persisted about how the initial increases for the first group would impact the remaining 80%.

Another concern raised during the meeting was the financial implications of a recent property purchase by Somerset County. A resident questioned the rationale behind the county’s acquisition of a commercial property in Middlesex Borough, which is projected to result in a $35,000 annual loss in tax revenue. The resident emphasized the need for strategic financial planning, particularly in light of tax appeals affecting approximately two dozen individuals. They warned of larger losses if tax credits and reductions were applied, potentially diminishing the borough’s tax base further.

Public safety also emerged as a issue. A resident detailed a dangerous situation at a local train crossing, noting that “we have two of the top 10 most dangerous crossings in the entire state,” and cited past fatalities. They urged immediate action and improved safety protocols. The resident emphasized the need for better communication and coordination among the different agencies responsible for the crossing’s safety.

The council addressed various ordinances and resolutions during the meeting. Ordinance 2132-24, authorizing the public sale of a specific block in Middlesex, was introduced and unanimously approved, with a public hearing scheduled for September 10. Ordinance 2129-24, amending regulations for massage and bodywork therapy establishments, sparked public concern. Bruce Sanders, a resident, highlighted the environmental significance of trees and cautioned against potential state overreach. The council acknowledged the limitations imposed by state regulations and emphasized compliance to avoid penalties.

Ordinance 2131-24, pertaining to construction fees for 100% disabled veterans, was also introduced and passed unanimously. The meeting included the approval of minutes from previous meetings without objections.

Council member reports provided updates on various initiatives and events. Condolences were offered for the passing of Howie Frederickson, a long-time fire department member. Upcoming events such as a CPR training program and a cleanup day at Mountain View Park were discussed. Council members praised the success of recent community events, including National Night Out, which saw significant participation.

Environmental initiatives were also highlighted, with reports on a tree giveaway and updates on the water connection status for the tree farm. Maintenance work by the Department of Public Works, including painting crosswalks and installing new park facilities, was noted. Police and fire department activities were reported, including responses to a fire incident at Park Brook Gardens and statistics on calls and arrests from the previous month.

The administrator’s report covered ongoing summer projects and activities, including park system improvements and municipal facility maintenance. However, the development of a local history room at the library has been delayed due to a leaking roof. The borough is considering a joint historic park project with Somerset County and is in the process of closing the sale of the old firehouse headquarters. Equipment purchases for the fire and police departments, a sewer system analysis, new trash receptacles, and a prefabricated restroom for Mountain View Park were also discussed.

Public comments raised additional concerns about the reassessment program’s timing and financial impact. Residents expressed confusion about the mailing sent to citizens, which stated the reassessment was part of a continuing effort rather than the first year of a new cycle. The administrator clarified the reassessment process and confirmed it was the first year of the cycle.

Inquiries about financial oversight and accountability were also prominent. A resident called for a forensic audit to address financial mismanagement, citing uncollected taxes totaling $375,000. The resident argued that systemic changes were essential for sustainable fiscal management and expressed frustration at the council’s repeated refusals for an audit.

The meeting concluded with the council addressing various resolutions, including purchasing equipment for the police and fire departments and authorizing bids for a postal machine. Discussions about replacing three older, unreliable vehicles with a new pickup truck highlighted operational challenges and safety concerns. The council also approved funding for Mountain View Park’s restroom facilities, covered by a grant.