The public hearing on the 2024 Municipal budget was a focal point of the meeting, with residents participating. Mr. Bruce Patterson’s inquiry into the budget specifics touched on the budget increase, equalized value, debt ratio, debt service, salaries and wages, pilot money, and taxes. Concerns were also raised regarding borrowing and spending practices. Ms. Michelle Capabiano’s email brought up the need for transparency, accountability, and fairness in the budgeting process. In response, the council members provided explanations for the various budget allocations, with an emphasis on the importance of funding for the police force and recreation department, as well as detailed justifications for the increases.

A thorough line-by-line review of the police department’s operating budget revealed reductions in police overtime line, increases in parking enforcement hours, and investments in new patrol vehicles and administrative training. The review also discussed new state licensing and accreditation requirements, including the implementation of computer-aided dispatch programs and standard operating procedures. The municipal portion percentage of the total taxpayer bill, historically split as 34% for the municipal, 20% for the county, and 45% for the school, was discussed, but specific percentages for the current year were not available at the time.

The council debated the representation of financial figures, with one member disputing claims about the borough’s debt and hiring practices, asserting that the council was not hiring at a high rate and providing clarity on the use of pilot money to offset increases. This member also compared the impact of the municipal budget to that of the Board of Education budget on taxpayers.

The borough attorney brought up concerns about the hiring process for seasonal employees. The attorney specifically cited chapter 5-5 1.23 of the code, recommending changes to streamline hiring and avoid delays.

The Borough Administrator reported on committee meetings concerning grant money allocation for community projects, including a video camera security upgrade at the Athletic Field Complex, potential improvements at Hartman Park, and infrastructure repairs. The possibility of selling slate removed from Central was discussed, pending approval to post it for bidding. The council also honored Maryann Severage for her service with the Garwood Fire Department Ladies Auxiliary.

The Finance committee reviewed strategies for utilizing Union County Kids Grant funds and aligning staffing with departmental goals. The Fire committee reported on incidents and mutual aid services, while the Community Development committee discussed a meeting with Garden Homes. The Public Works committee provided updates on street maintenance, and the Police and Public Safety committee reported on the Garwood Police Department’s activities and an increase in crimes and suspicious activities.

Public comments included gratitude and Mother’s Day wishes, and various communications were received and filed. Ordinances introduced pertained to alcoholic beverages and a bond ordinance for the 2024 Road Improvement project. The meeting also touched on the implementation of metered parking in the business district, plans for upcoming community events, and recent resolutions from the planning board. The Garwood Board of Education’s annual budget was adopted with a tax impact of $168 at the median.