A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to strategies for securing the Greenacres grant, which offers funding for land acquisition, park stewardship, and development projects. The council considered a proposal to apply for a project valued at $1.275 million, which would necessitate a municipal match of $956,250, potentially securing an award of $318,750. This approach would utilize the borough’s available funds, including a $361,817 grant from Monmouth County Open Space, effectively managing resources without accruing debt.

The council examined the financial landscape, noting a starting balance of $734,888.25, which increased to $1,959.25 after accounting for the Monmouth County grant. A purchase order for demolition and asbestos mitigation, costing $121,700, left approximately $974,252.25 available for matching purposes. There was discussion about the acquisition cost of the 21 Fair Haven Road property, estimated at $1.2 million, which was financed through a mix of grant money and direct expenses. However, it was clarified that previously spent funds could not be retroactively applied as matching funds for the current grant application.

The council also explored the possibility of utilizing Greenacres funds to support future applications, particularly for the Monmouth County Open Space Grant. A council member raised questions about applying for maximum funding, which would require a full match. There was uncertainty surrounding the new rules for the county grant, but historically, Greenacres funds could not be used as a match.

The timeline for the grant application was critical, with a six-week deadline and the necessity for two public sessions: community engagement and a public hearing. Though community engagement had been conducted previously, it was necessary to repeat this process. Options included a meeting or survey, with a preference for a meeting due to time constraints. The council debated who would lead this engagement, as some members opted to step back to allow others to take charge.

Ultimately, a motion was made to submit the grant application and complete the necessary public participation components. The motion was seconded, and a roll call vote resulted in unanimous support. However, there was an oversight in not allowing public comment before the vote, which the council acknowledged. Plans were made to finalize dates for public engagement and hearings during a meeting scheduled for the following day.