The most significant event of the meeting revolved around the election of new leadership. Annette Romano secured her position as mayor, receiving the necessary votes in a roll call. However, the process of appointing a Deputy Mayor sparked a debate over the perceived shift towards partisan politics. Frank Saccomandi expressed dissatisfaction with the council’s direction, lamenting the move away from nonpartisan collaboration. He stressed the importance of leadership focused on community needs over party lines, stating, “It is disheartening to think that the past year of actions rooted in service to this town are now being ignored.”

Michael Cohen ultimately received enough support to be appointed Deputy Mayor, but not without contention.

Affordable housing remained a topic throughout the meeting. A statement from an absent council member, Mr. Osman, emphasized the council’s support for affordable housing, but criticized a controversial project proposing to place low-income families on a contaminated site. The proposed project would cost $800,000 per unit, in contrast to alternative sites that would cost less. Concerns about a $5 million fee allocated to RPM, a firm involved in the project, were also raised, questioning the lack of performance metrics tied to the agreement.

The public comment section revealed community concerns over governance and fiscal practices. Residents questioned the council’s financial transparency, particularly regarding long-term tax revenue management and the approval of multiple Redevelopment Counsel firms. The temporary budget process also drew scrutiny, with residents demanding accountability and clarity from the council and its auditor. Calls for nonpartisan elections surfaced, with suggestions for a referendum to enable the town to choose its governance model. A speaker cautioned against interpreting recent election results as an endorsement of party policies, emphasizing the importance of focusing on local issues.

Concerns about proposed regulations on gas leaf blowers also emerged. Residents advocated for a referendum to address the potential ban, citing the need for community involvement in the decision-making process. Environmental considerations were highlighted, with a resident warning of the consequences of improper grass clipping management, which could lead to increased pesticide use.

The meeting also included an acknowledgment of the community’s accomplishments and challenges. Mayor Romano expressed gratitude for her reelection, paying tribute to notable community members, including the late school community member and a former zoning board chairman. A moment of silence was observed, and a future proclamation was suggested for Bernie Zen, a World War II veteran who recently turned 100.

Appointments to various committees and boards were addressed, with Christine Best appointed to the Zoning Board of Adjustment and several reappointments to the Local Assistance Board. Public comments further highlighted the community’s desire for transparency and the importance of bipartisanship in council decisions. A former mayor’s statement read during the meeting criticized party loyalty overshadowing community interests, recounting their departure from the party due to conflicting values concerning community service and development.