During the meeting, the council deliberated on the proposed 2024 budget, which includes a 1.99% increase equating to a $10.22 per month increase on the average assessed house, with a total budget proposed at $77,358,900. The budget objectives were centered around infrastructure investment, grant maximization, and minimizing tax increases while meeting state regulations. Notably, the budget draws $3.1 million from a surplus, which was reported to have increased to $1.8 million at the end of the fiscal year 23. The city’s strong financial position was underscored by a positive review from Standard and Poor’s, which maintained a credit rating of double A minus.

The council passed an ordinance allowing the city to exceed its budget appropriation limits and establish a cap bank. This would enable exceeding appropriations by 3.5%, with any unused funds banked for future use, which was deemed necessary for future budget flexibility and emergency funding.

Public safety emerged as a major theme, with several community members voicing concerns about potential cuts to the police department’s overtime budget. The discourse was heightened by recent anti-Semitic attacks and a general rise in crime, including push-and-grab incidents, which raised questions about the adequacy of police presence and resources. Residents such as James Schwalbe and Rachel Haber articulated the need for maintaining, if not bolstering, the police force to ensure the safety of the Jewish community and sustain a positive police-community relationship.

City officials addressed these concerns by detailing the police department’s budget management strategies, which included adjustments in officer deployment to reduce overtime costs and the ongoing recruitment of additional officers to further alleviate the need for overtime. It was clarified that despite the concerns, the regular salaries budget had been increased, offering some leeway for overtime and emergency situations. Furthermore, officials assured the public that budget transfers could be utilized to cover unforeseen expenses.

The meeting also broached topics such as the condition of public infrastructure, with residents expressing unease regarding the state of the parking garage, which was marred by vandalism and insufficient lighting. The Municipal Alliance committee’s role in combating substance abuse and mental health issues was also examined, alongside the need for resources in schools.

Regarding capital improvements, the council proposed a capital budget of $1,948,776, which is tied to grant funding and ARPA funding, with a completion deadline set for December 31, 2026. In addition, the city has received approximately $4.65 million in grants for various projects.

Conversations at the council meeting extended to issues of community representation and governance, with concerns raised about the language used in council discussions and the need for unity among council members. Public comments also touched on the support for the Englewood volunteer Ambulance Corps and the proposal of a residency requirement for city jobs.

The council members acknowledged the contributions of Faith Wringle and Joe Lieberman, both of whom had recently passed away, and discussed community events such as the 19th annual dinner of the East Hill synagogue. Councilman Wilson highlighted the importance of community participation in the planning board’s master plan and fiscal responsibility.