The proposition of the PILOT program for the Petersbrook Innovation Center was a focal point of the meeting. The program is designed to provide developers with a predictable tax obligation, which they argue is essential for securing financing and ensuring project feasibility. If implemented, the program would allow developers to pay a minimum of 10% of the annual gross revenue generated by the project, with the municipality retaining a larger share of revenue than it would through traditional property taxes. This would potentially include income from rents, parking fees, and other sources. The council members emphasized that the PILOT could last up to 30 years, with each phase of the project initiating its own period upon completion.

The financial consultant, Mike Hanley, detailed the expected revenue increments for the township, projecting an increase of approximately $2.2 million if the development succeeds. The project aims to include a mix of logistics, lab, and office spaces, each with varied pilot percentages reflecting market demand. Logistics spaces, in higher demand, are proposed to start at 13.5% and rise to 14.5%, while lab and office spaces would range from 10% to 14%.

However, the discussion also broached the potential long-term implications once the 30-year pilot period concludes, raising concerns about the property’s future tax contributions. Without such programs, council members argued, developers might struggle to secure financing, leading to underperforming properties that contribute less to the tax base.

Public feedback during the meeting revealed mixed reactions to the PILOT program. Some residents expressed dissatisfaction, feeling that these agreements shift the tax burden to local taxpayers. One resident was vocal about their opposition, insisting on transparency and accountability from the council, and demanding evidence of tax reductions to support the PILOT approach.

In addition to the redevelopment talks, other topics were addressed during the meeting. The council discussed the sale of a property to TripleC Housing Incorporated for affordable housing development. Concerns were raised about the project’s financial viability and the township’s potential financial involvement, which could reach up to $150,000 if the developer faced funding challenges. The council assured that township funds would only be utilized after other financing avenues were exhausted.

Throughout the public comments, several residents voiced concerns over local financial management, particularly regarding the budget and PILOT agreements. Questions were raised about a proposed $3 million expenditure, with some residents criticizing the lack of transparency and clarity in budget figures. They called for a more detailed budget review process, expressing frustration with the council’s financial practices.

Historic preservation and environmental issues were also highlighted by residents. One resident expressed disappointment over a missed opportunity for restoring a historic property, urging the council to prioritize community access to preserved sites. Another resident raised alarms about the erosion of Peters Brook, calling for immediate action to prevent further environmental and safety hazards.