The budget discussion was a focal point of the meeting. The auditor, Andrew, presented a summary of the financials, which included an increase in the current fund balance and a positive report on tax collection rates. He also mentioned ongoing efforts to reduce the town’s debts. The budget plan, praised for its compliance with appropriation and tax levy caps, includes provisions for paying down debts, allocating funds for Green Acres, and maintaining the Capital Improvement fund. Andrew lauded the budget’s modest increase in budget lines and the fact that it did not require a state review for the current year. However, the council decided to postpone the authorization to ensure that the public had sufficient opportunity to review the details.

Infrastructure and public safety were also topics during the council meeting. Updates on the fiber build-out, cable franchise agreements, and water construction projects were provided. The potential expansion of internet services was discussed. The chief of police briefed on community policing initiatives.

A resident named Michael Rhoden brought forth concerns regarding the maintenance of the dog park, which included issues with watering and weeding trees, a problematic gate hinge, puddling at the entrance, and gravel in the handicap parking spots. Furthermore, Rhoden questioned the cleaning schedule of the park’s bathrooms. The concerns were acknowledged, and actions such as using bags for watering the trees and addressing the gate hinge issues were mentioned.

The lease extension for the Jacobus Vander house was another point of contention raised by a resident during public comments. The resident expressed a desire for any negotiations to be conducted in public to ensure transparency, highlighting a concern about potential conflicts with the township’s plans for the area.

Other discussions included a report from the Recreation Department on high registration numbers for the summer camp and upcoming sports activities, emphasizing the community’s engagement with local programs. The mayor mentioned the upcoming Farmers Market and the approval of a use variance for a two-family home in the village neighborhood zone.

On the public safety front, the council approved ordinance number 20245, which authorized the hiring of a new police officer, thereby strengthening the police force. Chief Robin presented resolution 20224073, awarding a contract to Visual Computer Solutions Inc for police off-duty scheduling, invoicing, and collection services. This service aims to reduce the administrative burdens on the police department at no cost to the township.

Despite the range of topics discussed, the council adjourned without a resolution on the budget.