Chief James Arold of the police department offered an overview of the department’s history, current structure, and challenges. Established in 1893, the department has evolved to a team of 18 officers, handling approximately 15,000 calls annually. Chief Arold emphasized the important role of local dispatchers, who manage emergency calls and provide a personal touch that external call centers cannot. He noted the difficulty in retaining special officers due to their desirability once trained, and stressed the importance of outreach efforts to local schools for recruitment.

The chief detailed the significant responsibilities within the department, from law enforcement to administrative duties, and highlighted the constraints of a limited fleet of vehicles. A concern was the aging patrol cars with over 4,000 idle hours, equating to substantial wear and tear. He stressed the need for new technology, including updated body cameras and license plate readers, to maintain effective policing. Chief Arold also discussed the department’s participation in regional SWAT teams and active shooter partnerships, which he deemed beneficial for officer training and community safety.

The meeting then transitioned to public comments, where residents expressed dissatisfaction with the council’s transparency regarding financial management. Concerns were raised about the allocation of $434,000 in funds over two years and the implications of bond ordinances totaling $2.6 million for capital projects. Residents questioned the council’s decision-making process, particularly in light of the unresolved 2023 audit. One resident urged the council to delay spending decisions until the new mayor takes office.

The introduction of two bond ordinances, aimed at funding improvements on Main Street and other community projects, brought further scrutiny. A council member clarified that a portion of the funding would come from grants, reducing the burden on local taxpayers. Despite assurances, residents remained skeptical of the council’s accountability and communication strategy, with calls for greater transparency and community engagement in future projects.

Additional topics included a presentation from the Environmental Commission, which highlighted community initiatives such as beach cleanups and the Green Fair. However, insufficient interest hampered efforts to adopt local storm drains, underscoring challenges in mobilizing community participation. Residents also voiced concerns about the integration of the police department into the borough’s payroll system and sought clarity on the scope of a $50,000 planning grant.