0:28The council’s deliberations centered around the introduction of the 2025 budget, with a particular focus on addressing staffing challenges in the police and fire departments. The lingering effects of the pandemic have created difficulties in attracting and retaining personnel, prompting the council to negotiate new collective bargaining agreements that include significant salary hikes. These adjustments are deemed necessary to maintain a competitive edge and ensure the borough retains experienced first responders. The proposed budget outlines a $1 million salary increase for police officers and an additional $200,000 to $300,000 for firefighters. These increases are expected to result in an average property tax hike of approximately $70 per homeowner, following a recent property value reassessment.

The budget discussion also included mention of compliance with state regulations, allowing the borough to conduct a self-examination of the budget, thereby reducing the review burden from the Department of Community Affairs. The mayor emphasized the complexities involved in preparing the budget, noting that the adjustments are important for sustaining essential services in the community.

28:50In addition to budgetary matters, the meeting highlighted a successful community fundraising effort that amassed $10,000 to support the installation of inclusive playground equipment. This amount matches a similar contribution from the previous year, bringing the project closer to fruition. The representative overseeing the fundraiser remarked on the high cost of playground equipment and the extensive planning involved. To further support the initiative, a raffle featuring a “sweetheart basket” valued at over $1,200 is being organized, with entry forms available at local stores.

The council also addressed updates from the local library, which is set to eliminate late fees for regular collection items, such as books and CDs, effective December 2024. Patrons are encouraged to return items on time, with a call to “be a good neighbor” and “be a good patron.” Despite inclement weather affecting participation, the library successfully hosted events for Martin Luther King Jr. Day, including a community quilt project inviting children aged eight and older to contribute panels. Additional upcoming activities include a family bird walk as part of the Great Backyard Bird Count and Maker Day in March, along with financial literacy programs for children starting in the spring.

Further discussions included updates from the Department of Public Works (DPW), particularly regarding the progress of a new facility that is expected to be operational by the next meeting. Plans include relocating Sarah’s Produce into the new space. The meeting also covered potential partnerships with Habitat for Humanity to rehabilitate properties into affordable housing units for income-qualified seniors. The representative highlighted the goal of assisting seniors with code violations and repairs through funding programs, referencing a successful neighborhood preservation program as a model.

Public comments revealed community interest in school budgets, state funding, and local taxes, with residents inquiring about the potential use of the cap bank to increase property tax revenue in support of school operating budgets. The response clarified that while the borough could raise taxes to allocate funds to schools, the school board holds the authority to raise its own funds. Further dialogue emphasized the responsibility of the school board to manage their budget, with representatives expressing frustration over the lack of communication from the school board regarding funding needs. The council expressed a willingness to engage in discussions and emphasized the importance of collaboration to enhance educational outcomes.

0:28Concluding the meeting, a moment of silence was observed to honor the late Frank Spencer, a retired Public Works employee, remembered for his extensive knowledge of the town’s infrastructure. Council members confirmed several appointments within the fire department, including a new fire captain, lieutenant, and firefighter EMT, with each appointee taking an oath to uphold the U.S. Constitution and fulfill their duties. The meeting also included the release of a performance guarantee for a completed public works project, transitioning to a maintenance bond to address potential roadway issues.