Addressing one of the most community concerns, a resident from East Lincoln brought attention to parking difficulties in the area, exacerbated by local business activity. The resident, who resides in a building on East Lincoln, shared the struggles of finding parking during both day and evening hours. This issue is particularly problematic for residents like a neighbor who, after long nursing shifts, faces challenges in securing a parking spot. Despite paying an annual permit fee of $75, residents find the current parking situation unfair. The proposed solution involves installing signs restricting parking to permit holders only after 8:00 PM from Monday to Friday. The council acknowledged these issues, noting that they had been referred to the administration and police department for further review. Discussions included potential solutions, such as indemnifying parking lot owners for municipal use during peak hours, to alleviate street parking pressure.

In budgetary matters, the council made notable adjustments to the general capital budget. The decision was made to reduce the number of mason dump trucks from two to one, defer the purchase of radios to a future year, and cut costs across fire prevention and the Department of Public Works. The streetscape design budget was notably reduced from $276,000 to $175,000 after negotiations with a lower bidder, and the solar project was removed from the budget. These changes resulted in an overall capital budget reduction of approximately $750,000. Despite these cuts, the capital budget was initially proposed at around $10.5 million, with a debt impact assessment indicating a potential increase of $147 to $148 for the average assessed home. The council emphasized that these figures represent a worst-case scenario and do not account for potential grants that could offset long-term debt costs. Notable projects include a $1.6 million roof repair at the community center and the tower building, considered overdue. The council stressed the need to address these overdue projects to prevent greater future costs.

Another discussion centered around the township’s participation in the Inclusive Healthy Communities program, which awarded Verona a $250,000 grant. This funding aims to advance initiatives related to inclusivity and health, with further directions from the state awaited before proceeding. The grant is part of Verona’s broader efforts to enhance community well-being and support diverse needs.

The council also addressed community engagement activities. The Mayor attended the ribbon-cutting ceremony for the Harley School Trucks Marketplace, a student entrepreneurial initiative, and the Verona Foundation for Educational Excellence Inspiring Excellence Award ceremony, which honored seven educators. Upcoming community events include the Memorial Day parade, Asian-American Pacific Islander Heritage Month celebrations, and a summer music festival featuring the New Jersey Symphony Orchestra on June 27. Other activities include an electronics recycling event and fishing events scheduled for late May and early June.

Public safety acknowledgments were made through a proclamation for National EMS Week. The Mayor, alongside other council members, expressed gratitude for the dedication of emergency medical service providers, highlighting the vital nature of their work and their contributions to the community.

The meeting also featured updates on ongoing municipal projects. The relining of the main pool was completed in preparation for opening day, and the draft of a sanitary sewer smoke study was circulated, with a final version expected soon. Repairs to the primary clarifier pump station and Derwent Avenue sewer line are ongoing, while the water wells project includes a final change order for the Lind Drive well. Road projects such as preparations for bids on Lynen Avenue and ADA ramp replacements on Bloomfield Avenue were discussed, alongside upcoming DOT grant deadlines.

The council’s discussion also turned to the appointment of a new arborist, Juette, for the township. Concerns were raised about potential conflicts of interest due to the arborist’s involvement in tree removal services. The council assured provisions are in place to address any conflicts, including the availability of alternative arborists.