The budget discussions revealed a multifaceted approach to managing the town’s finances, with a presentation of preliminary figures subject to adjustment. A notable technological advancement was the use of new software from Edmonds, which is expected to streamline future budget processes. The meeting delved into various departmental budgets, reflecting strategic reallocations and adjustments. The recreation budget saw a rise from $266,000 to $323,700 as the council prioritized enhanced services for senior citizens, including popular programs like pickleball instruction. Efforts to strengthen the swimming pool utility involved shifting full-time salaries to part-time wages, aligning with rising minimum wage requirements.

The finance department reported a significant reduction in salaries, decreasing from $277,000 to $168,000, as services transitioned back in-house from HFA Consultants. This move, along with a decrease in financial consultancy fees from $45,500 to $10,000, contributed to an overall budget reduction. Tax collection adjustments included modest increases in the budget line for audits and a salary increase for the tax collector.

A major focus was the impending revaluation mandated by the Essex County Board of Taxation. The reval process, estimated to cost around $400,000, involves updating outdated tax maps last revised in 2008. The council discussed funding the reval through a larger bond rather than an emergency authorization, with plans to publish a request for proposals for revaluation companies within the next 20 days. The reval is anticipated to be revenue-neutral, adjusting tax rates in response to changes in assessed property values.

The meeting also explored the municipal court budget, noting a decrease from $310,995 to $223,600, and the introduction of upgraded Zoom licensing for virtual court sessions to enhance efficiency in managing cases remotely. The planning and zoning budget reflected changes following the retirement of a full-time coordinator, with responsibilities redistributed among existing staff. The anticipated implementation of SDL software aims to modernize departmental operations, improving access to permits and records.

The council discussed changes in the engineering and health department budgets, including a notable increase in the engineering budget from $9,934 to $29,500 to support infrastructure improvements. The introduction of an electronic recycling program, in collaboration with Green Ship, is expected to generate revenue without additional town costs. The health department’s budget adjustments included a $6,000 increase in salaries and a reaffirmation of the Montclair Health contract, vital for providing public health services.

The police department budget was another critical area of discussion, with a rise from $4,943,673 to $5,270,000 due to contractual obligations. Efforts to address staffing challenges for crossing guards resulted in a new approach to scheduling. The necessity of upgrading equipment, including defibrillators and radar units, was emphasized to maintain public safety standards.