The police department’s current BWC and network video recorder (NVR) system is approaching obsolescence, with the service provider set to discontinue support in February 2025. Using a grant, the department has already procured new BWCs, but the transition to a cloud-based system compliant with the Attorney General’s guidelines necessitates further changes. A proposed five-year contract, priced at $60,800, includes replacing defective cameras within the first two years. The council discussed whether the contract should be considered a lease, as the department will own the cameras. Despite exploring different payment structures, it was confirmed that there would be no cost benefit to paying upfront.

Alongside technological upgrades, the council discussed the necessity of maintaining an effective policing fleet. A new police vehicle purchase is scheduled for 2025, with plans to acquire a hybrid model. The department is eyeing a hybrid utility vehicle like the Ford Explorer, but concerns about charging infrastructure in Lambertville were noted. Current gas vehicles average 10 miles per gallon, while the hybrid models could offer approximately 40 miles per gallon, highlighting potential fuel savings. The anticipated cost for such a vehicle is around $81,657. While exploring fully electric options, the department found that available models like a pickup truck were impractical for daily patrols.

In parallel, the council examined the broader budget landscape, particularly the police department’s staffing and operational challenges. The department’s budget hearing revealed ongoing personnel shortages, with concerns about maintaining industry-standard staffing levels. The Lieutenant described difficulties in recruitment, compounded by the Attorney General’s mandates on diversity. The discussion included projected personnel changes for 2025, anticipating continued shortfalls due to training commitments and recruitment hurdles. The council recognized the importance of addressing these staffing issues to ensure officer safety and operational efficiency.

The budget deliberations also highlighted the police department’s financial pressures, particularly in terms of overtime costs. Increased reliance on overtime, driven by vacancies and medical leave, has strained the budget. The council acknowledged the accumulated comp time costs, which will require future compensation, and the complexities involved in managing these financial obligations within the department’s budgetary framework.

The meeting further touched on the need for accurate financial tracking and adjustments across various city departments. Discussions about vehicle maintenance underscored the aging fleet’s challenges, prompting requests for increased appropriations to avoid future deficits. The department also faces rising costs for advertising police positions due to the need for expanded postings, which have increased the budget from $400 to $2,000.

Beyond the police department, the council addressed broader city budget considerations. The Public Works department is preparing for retirements and potential staffing changes, emphasizing the need for succession planning. The department’s vehicle maintenance budget exceeded its allocation, leading to recommendations for increased funding to accommodate ongoing repairs.

Other notable discussions included budget allocations for road maintenance and repairs. The council highlighted the use of bond money for projects like Lambert Hill, scrutinizing funding sources and financial allocations. The need for equipment to handle emergencies, such as sinkholes, was also discussed, with suggestions to adjust budget lines to ensure flexibility.