1:21:36A focal point of the meeting was the urgent safety issues outside Crescent Elementary School. A concerned resident highlighted the risks to children, emphasizing that without immediate action, an accident was inevitable. In response, the council discussed several measures, including the installation of blinking crosswalks expected to be operational within two weeks. Further safety enhancements considered were speed signs, LED signage, yellow curbs for buffer zones, and rumble strips to alert drivers. Although these measures were welcomed, the resident expressed dissatisfaction with the current police presence. The council acknowledged the staffing challenges and the need to balance police duties across multiple schools, while also considering staggered release times as a potential remedy for congestion and safety concerns.

The topic of traffic safety extended beyond schools, as another resident expressed gratitude for the planned Zoom meetings, which are expected to boost participation in council discussions. This resident also raised issues at the intersection of Prospect Street and Nordom, where pedestrian safety is a concern due to frequent disregard for crosswalks by drivers. The absence of sidewalks on certain streets was also discussed, highlighting the risks for children biking home from school. The mayor reminded attendees that collaboration with the county is necessary for implementing new safety measures on county roadways.

0:28In an effort to enhance community engagement, the council announced the introduction of Zoom meetings starting June 1st. This initiative, a response to community requests for greater accessibility, will be trialed for six months. The mayor emphasized the importance of unity and encouraged residents to engage constructively with the council. The council also discussed improving communication strategies by utilizing social media platforms to increase the outreach of their weekly e-newsletters, which contain updates on local matters.

1:06:44Discussions on financial allocations for volunteer emergency services saw a proposal to double the budget for fire department line officers and related personnel. This came after the realization that approximately $6,000 of the current $25,000 allocation was unspent annually. Council members recognized the outdated compensation structures, noting the significant personal time volunteers dedicate, and agreed on the need to review and potentially increase these figures. The conversation also highlighted the importance of ensuring fair compensation adjustments between the fire department and the ambulance corps.

51:43The council also addressed the redevelopment plan for the WOV Brady property, emphasizing the importance of maintaining it as open space. Suggestions included creating a dog park and community gardens, with a firm commitment to preserving the land as parkland rather than developing it for housing. The environmental committee expressed interest in participating in these discussions and proposed utilizing the newly hired grant writer to seek funding for development projects that could enhance the area as public parkland.

On the financial front, the council discussed the 2025 municipal budget. Additions to the budget included funding for a grant writer, a new Department of Public Works (DPW) clerk, and additional expenses for special Law Enforcement Officers. The budget also accounted for a 15% increase in utility expenses, reflecting economic pressures. The council planned to further refine the budget with the auditor and present it again for review.

36:20Finally, the meeting included updates on various resolutions, such as the authorization of bonds for the water utility bond series 2025 and the appointment of members to the board of adjustment. The council also discussed the introduction of an ordinance amending municipal swimming pool fees.