The $8 million construction project was a focal point of the meeting, involving the town’s surplus funds totaling $5.3 million and state debt service aid of $2.7 million. This significant investment in the town’s infrastructure is set to improve several educational facilities with the addition of a new nurses’ suite, an expanded sports program facility, a steam lab, and upgraded ceramics and photography rooms. The project is on a tight schedule with an anticipated completion date by the end of August.

Tax increases were also a vital topic, with council members attributing the rise to a regional allocation formula that considers home values and student numbers. Despite this challenge, the council maintained a tone of fiscal responsibility, expressing pride in their efforts to manage spending and inviting residents to participate in a public hearing on the budget scheduled for April 25th.

The spring tree planting project, led by Susan Jeans and Gordon Redgate, aims to plant 20 trees along Pic Street and Sterling. The council voiced support for this initiative and stressed the urgency of action due to an approaching deadline for tree purchases.

Elizabeth Timothy and Tim Stai presented the school budget highlights, which include a 1% increase to $52 million, a decline in enrollment, and the loss of significant federal aid. Despite these challenges, the budget supports the Empower program, which aids students in maintaining and regaining credits for graduation, and introduces new athletic opportunities such as additional coaching staff for female sports and a flag football program for female students.

Debates over the Everly property demolition and “cultural transformation” brought a note of tension to the meeting. A resident’s pointed questions about the contract awarding process and public communication were met with council members’ assertions of transparency and proper legal adherence. The council emphasized the potential for open space use of the recently acquired Everly property. Residents also voiced concerns regarding the impact of new developments on traffic and flooding, as well as the importance of coordinating affordable housing efforts with neighboring townships.

They also announced the delivery of Millington’s new ladder truck, which will be in service following training and equipment preparations.

Updates from the planning board included discussions on the new master plan and potential projects concerning trails and greenways. The first aid squad reported a notable success story of transporting a young woman to the hospital, where she gave birth shortly after their arrival. Recognition was also given to the OEM director for his effective management of recent weather and seismic events.

The administrative report touched on zoning issues, regulatory compliance, and the beautification committee’s efforts, which include projects like electric box wraps. The communication advisory committee’s role was discussed, with plans to segment responsibilities into distinct areas focusing on audio-visual content, online initiatives, and outdoor events.

Lastly, the council addressed the facilitation of participatory Zoom meetings, improvements to the broadcasting of council meetings, the quality of loudspeakers at events, and the promotion of upcoming events, including a street fair and townwide garage sale.