During the meeting, the financial aspects of the Super Fresh grocery store took center stage, with residents expressing concerns about the tax impact and specifics of the renovation plans. The store’s tax agreement, structured as a payment in lieu of taxes (PILOT), was estimated to generate approximately $50,000. However, residents pointed out the absence of a formal budget analysis to determine the borough’s ability to absorb this tax payment. The agreement, according to one resident, detailed the benefits but failed to address the costs associated with the project. Questions were also raised about the inclusion of new public restrooms and the number of full-time employees the store would hire.

In response, the council explained the financial underpinnings of the PILOT, indicating that the rest of the taxpayers would cover the $50,000. They emphasized the long-term benefits the grocery store would bring to the community, including job creation and improved access to groceries. Assurances were made that the renovation would likely incorporate new restrooms and that the exact number of employees would be ascertained during the hiring phase.

The meeting’s agenda also included a motion related to the redevelopment of track A with Ran Redevelopment LLC and the introduction of the 2024 municipal budget. The budget presentation highlighted a $365 increase in the property tax bill for the average property owner. However, since the revaluation in 2022, many residents have seen their property taxes remain the same or decrease. The total tax levy was discussed, with allocations for public schools, municipal government, Middlesex County, and the public library.

The council conducted a detailed review of the municipal budget, noting an average increase of $71 in the municipal portion of the tax bill, a 2.27% uptick from the previous year. Public safety was identified as the largest sector of spending, followed by public works, and other municipal services. An anticipated increase in water purchase prices and Middlesex County Utilities Authority fees led to a recommended rate increase to address these rising costs. The capital improvement plan was outlined, featuring building upgrades, park improvements, vehicle replacements, and sewer system lining.

The first reading of the municipal budget was adopted, and a public hearing was scheduled for May 21, 2024, which passed unanimously. Similarly, the 2024 Main Street budget was introduced and set for a public meeting on the same date. With no opposition from council members or the public, the meeting moved forward efficiently.

The proclamation recognizing 75 years of service by the Arc of Middlesex County was presented by the mayor. The economic development committee chair announced the Highland Park 5K Street Fair, with local restaurants gaining recognition from nj.com, and introduced the Main Street budget focused on local businesses. The health and human services committee chair warned about the early mosquito season, the community food pantry, and stress awareness initiatives. Public safety updates included a housing corporation, the library’s roofing project, and police department activities, including support for the Edison Municipal animal shelter and LGBTQ+ law enforcement training.

The council also discussed the authorization for the Fire Department to accept a new engine donation from the volunteer fire department, part of the implementation of the Kushner grant. The Department of Community Services reported on grocery transportation, online food shopping assistance, and community events, such as a spring lunch event and a book art workshop. Council President highlighted Earth Day celebrations, a guided tour of The Meadows Trail, and borough initiatives like tree planting and pothole filling. The Housing Authority’s reorganization and the PTO’s donation of protective eyewear for the solar eclipse were acknowledged.

During public participation, gratitude was expressed for the council’s support of the Meadows Forest organization, and questions were raised about South Third Avenue’s closure, the vote on an agreement related to track A, and the use of community block development grants. The council addressed these issues, including the ordinance for a long-term tax exemption for the grocery store, directly responding to residents’ concerns.