The primary concern of the meeting was the township’s financial strategy, particularly the implications of the newly proposed budget. Vernon Township is facing a challenging fiscal year, with a budget that necessitates a 7% tax increase despite efforts to control spending. This tax hike follows three years of maintaining a static tax rate, driven by a combination of increased capital expenses, a loss in anticipated revenues, and a substantial decrease in the township’s fund balance. The budget outlines a total of $32,433,355, with $18.4 million allocated to municipal operations and $5.15 million towards debt service and capital appropriations.

A point of contention was the use of $1.65 million from the fund balance, reducing it to $5 million. Concerns were raised about the sustainability of withdrawing from savings to offset the tax burden, with council members warning that this approach might lead to severe financial constraints in the future. The council discussed the necessity of maintaining a robust fund balance to manage unforeseen expenses and ensure fiscal health. The tax rate reduction from 0.555 to 0.539 was noted, alongside an increase in property valuations, yet these factors did not mitigate the tax increase for residents.

The council members expressed discomfort with the tax increase, acknowledging the need to provide essential services while managing the township’s finances responsibly. The budget discussions also highlighted the ongoing challenge of managing school board expenditures, which impact the township’s fiscal plan. A suggestion was made to establish a liaison between the town council and the school board to enhance communication and collaboration on budgetary matters.

In addition to budgetary deliberations, the council recognized Cody Jacobs for achieving the rank of Eagle Scout. Cody’s achievements included extensive community service, leadership roles within his troop, and a unique Eagle Scout project of creating a remote-control vehicle Jeep trail. The township proclaimed April 2025 as a month to honor Cody’s contributions.

April was also declared National Autism Awareness Month and National Volunteer Month, with the council emphasizing the importance of supporting individuals with autism and recognizing the vital role of volunteers in the community. These proclamations encouraged citizens to engage and raise awareness, highlighting the collective impact of volunteer efforts across various sectors.

The meeting also addressed public concerns, particularly a dispute involving a violation notice for a resident, Florence Kensk. She contested the notice related to lighting standards, claiming that no actual inspection had occurred. This incident revealed complexities in code enforcement and the necessity for clarity in violation procedures. The council acknowledged the situation but noted the limitations of their intervention due to ongoing legal proceedings.

Furthermore, the council discussed the conditional redevelopment agreement with the new owners of Legends, which involves monthly financial provisions to the township until a construction loan is secured. This agreement is part of broader efforts to support local development and manage municipal services effectively.

The meeting concluded with discussions on the implications of not approving the municipal budget, with a council member highlighting potential financial penalties and the difficult decisions that would ensue if the budget was not passed. The urgency of passing the budget was emphasized to avoid disruptions in township operations and ensure compliance with state requirements.