Chief Hopkins presented the fire department’s capital requests to the council, emphasizing the critical nature of the items for maintaining operational readiness and safety. The portable radios and firefighting gear were among the top priorities, with the discussion also turning to the timeline for installing the sleeping quarters and lounge. The fire headquarters’ improvements are intended to support personnel during extended service periods, particularly in adverse weather conditions.

The preliminary budget discussions revealed a municipal tax rate increase and appropriations rising under 2%, with notable increases in liability insurance, retirement systems, and library appropriations. The council probed into the budgeting process, seeking clarity on departmental allocations, including a large format scanner for the construction department, which aligns with the state’s digitization requirements.

The Department of Public Works (DPW) proposed the purchase of an active dump truck, equipped with a salt spreader and plow, to enhance winter road maintenance capabilities. To bolster security, a $30,000 electric gate installation at the DPW yard was proposed, along with a plan to address an ongoing ice condition on Countryside Drive, and updates to the rescue squad building, including painting and LED lighting installation.

The engineering department’s agenda was robust, spotlighting a significant sidewalk project on Snyder Avenue, relying on a $517,000 grant, and the 2024 Paving program. The council deliberated on prioritizing roads and tackling drainage issues that could potentially result in infrastructure damage and community flooding if unaddressed.

Stormwater management and drainage infrastructure retrofitting, to conform to state regulations, were also pivotal topics. The council considered eco-friendly and bicycle-safe modifications to basins and catch basins. With hundreds of drainage structures in the town requiring updates, the adoption of GIS for digital mapping was seen as a necessary step for a comprehensive stormwater management system. The Westside drainage project’s progress was noted, and the council discussed infiltration issues in the existing piping and manhole infrastructure.

The Police Department’s request for capital funding for vehicle replacement and technology upgrades was presented, highlighting the need to replace outdated equipment from the old Municipal Complex. The Rescue Squad’s capital requests included a critical generator for their building—essential for shelter during power outages—and a new ambulance, as the current one was unexpectedly deemed unreliable.

The council also addressed the need to support the ambulance squad’s fundraising efforts for a new ambulance, estimated to cost between $350,000 and $400,000, with the township contributing $60,000. The decision to include the fire radios in the capital budget but place the rescue squad radios in the operating budget was justified by the squad’s nonprofit status, with ongoing grant-seeking efforts to cover the costs.

Addressing the town’s recreation needs, the council highlighted the addition of a senior bus driver in the operating budget.

The meeting then transitioned to a comprehensive presentation of 18 projects for 2024, focusing on essential wastewater treatment plant upgrades, such as electric switch gear replacement, lime system replacement, and service water system upgrades. The council discussed seeking funding from the NJI Bank, with PSNS taking charge of design work and specialized inspections. The Hampton Drive Force Main was identified as a critical concern due to multiple failures, necessitating specialized inspections.

The council took a holistic approach to infrastructure issues, including the need for CIP techniques for sewer repairs, a flow study for infiltration issues, and compliance pit improvements to prevent flooding at the wastewater treatment plant. The debate extended to budget considerations for repairs and upgrades, with the goal of finding cost-effective and efficient solutions.

A citizen, Haider Ali, took the opportunity during the public comment period to express gratitude for the council’s support of the volunteer fire department and emphasized the importance of essential vehicles and a retention program for department members.