The pilot agreement, a focal point of the meeting, garnered considerable public interest. A resident questioned the long-term tax exemption for the supermarket, probing the council on whether a financial forecast spreadsheet had been used to anticipate property tax revenue from the new store. The council responded by clarifying that the operator, not the property owner, was linked to the agreement, which would be void if the grocery store ceased operations. They assured that the urban renewal entity would pay either the land tax or an annual service charge, whichever was greater, and promised to provide further details to the resident.

Another concern raised by attendees was the association of the pilot with the property and the potential for a subsequent pilot with a future owner. The council acknowledged this question and committed to returning with more information. Additionally, there was a call for a budget analysis to support the pilot program, and inquiries were made about the entity responsible for conducting this analysis. The council agreed to address these requests.

These discussions around the supermarket and its tax implications were part of a broader conversation about the borough’s economic development and community well-being. The Economic Development Committee chair reported on local business activities, including the return of scooters to the town, the reopening of businesses, and plans to adopt an implementation plan for the neighborhood preservation program. Upcoming events like the farmers market and a 5K run in the park were also highlighted.

Furthermore, a report from the mayor about a meeting with the Attorney General regarding home burglaries and the introduction of a new technology called the LPR reader to address car thefts was mentioned. The success of the park Partners Grant at the community center was also acknowledged, with five different grants awarded in various categories.

The public also voiced concerns about property taxes, rent control, insurance issues, and the recent mandate for new water meters, which resulted in a significant bill for one property owner. The need for improved public information and communication, particularly for the diverse communities within the town, was emphasized, with suggestions for offering this information in multiple languages.

The chair of the Public Safety Committee updated on the kite making event, library projects, and fire department training, including a grant for turnout gear. The Recreation and Arts Committee chair talked about the services provided by the Community Services department, community center programming, and new youth programs. A special Windows of Understanding event focusing on food security issues was also mentioned.

The health council member reported on initiatives related to gun storage, community food pantry, and mental health awareness.

In addition to the discussions and reports, the council moved forward with routine agenda items. They approved an ordinance for a long-term tax exemption, confirmed appointments to the public information committee, the arts commission, and addressed the consent agenda items. The next meeting was scheduled for April 2nd.