The most pressing topic of the meeting was the procurement of a new fire truck for the Green Village Fire Department, a decision driven by the need to lock in current pricing before a significant price increase. With the cost of the truck rising from an initial estimate of $1.2 million to approximately $1.5 million due to market conditions, the council was under pressure to act swiftly. The urgency was further highlighted by the impending price hike set to take effect the following day, affecting a quarter of the overall cost. The council’s resolution during the workshop ensured that the township could secure the truck at the current rate.

The fire truck being replaced was 24 years old and had reached the end of its useful life, lacking capabilities that the new truck would provide. The new vehicle is designed with a full Class A pump, enhancing its fire suppression capabilities, a critical feature given the rise of electric vehicle fires that require substantial water to control. The extended lead time of 24 months for delivery necessitated early planning and budgeting to ensure timely procurement. The council’s decision to prioritize the fire truck’s purchase underscored their commitment to maintaining operational readiness and community safety.

In parallel discussions, the council addressed previous unsuccessful attempts to secure grants for the apparatus, including the AFG Grant for 2024, which Chatham Township was denied due to competitive criteria. This denial forced the township to rely on local taxation to fund the purchase. The council deliberated on restructuring funding plans for 2025, opting to delay the replacement of another fire engine to reallocate funds toward the immediate purchase. This strategic decision took into account the good condition of the existing vehicle, allowing for a delay without compromising service.

Additionally, the council discussed the mechanics of a special emergency appropriation ordinance for a county-mandated revaluation program estimated to cost between $500,000 and $600,000. This financial maneuver allows the township to spread the revaluation costs over multiple years, utilizing its fund balance to finance the expense internally rather than seeking external loans. The finance committee will review future budget implications to ensure transparency for taxpayers.

The meeting also included updates on various other issues. The council explored a resolution for affordable housing, to be addressed in future meetings, and discussed a communications land lease, which had been rebid with favorable outcomes. The new proposals offered higher rent and included escalators, with concerns raised about restrictions on structure heights and protection of emergency services.

The council reviewed an agreement related to a communication tower, which would become township property upon antenna installation. The terms allow for a share of the rent from carriers, generating revenue for the township. A salary ordinance was also introduced, proposing competitive range analyses to attract and retain qualified municipal employees. The council recognized the shrinking pool of applicants and the necessity of flexible salary structures.

Colony pool fees were another topic of discussion, with a proposal to adjust rates to offset operating losses. The council considered an early bird registration to incentivize sign-ups, and the absence of initiation fees for new members was explained as a long-standing township practice.

Finally, the council addressed the communication of public meeting notifications, with proposals to enhance transparency by formalizing proactive communication measures beyond state mandates. This initiative aims to increase public engagement by utilizing digital platforms alongside traditional newspaper notifications.