The most pressing topic at the meeting was the discussion surrounding drone regulations. As technology rapidly evolves, the council acknowledged the challenges posed by unregistered drones. There was a clear emphasis on the importance of vigilance among residents and officials, with plans to collaborate with different government levels to maintain public safety. “Rest assured Madison is ready,” the mayor stated. This sentiment was met with applause from the audience.

In addition to drone regulations, the meeting was notable for the confirmation of appointments for the 2025 year. Rachel Ehrlich was nominated and unanimously approved as council president through a voice vote. The mayor then announced the standing committee appointments, which required council confirmation. These included Rachel Ehrlich as chair of Finance and Borough Clerk, Eric Range as chair of Public Works and Engineering, Robert E. Landrigan as chair of Public Safety, Tom Haralampoudis as chair of Utilities, Melissa Hanahan as chair of Community Affairs, and John Forte as chair of Health. Each appointment received unanimous approval.

The council also confirmed various officials who required council confirmation, such as Borough Attorney Matthew Jobe, Housing Officer Michael Pessier, and Zoning Officer Denny Harrington, among others. These appointments passed unanimously. Furthermore, appointments were made to the Board of Education liaison, Chamber of Commerce liaison, and additional committees, with all motions receiving unanimous support. The mayor requested that the council president announce specific mayoral appointments to the Board of Health and other committees that did not require council confirmation, which were also unanimously approved.

Taxation policy was another significant topic discussed. A resolution was introduced to set interest rates on delinquent taxes at 8% annually for the first $1,500 and 18% for amounts exceeding that threshold. One council member voiced concern about the sensitivity of these rates. The council member remarked, “this lacks a little sensitivity as to why somebody’s not paying their taxes,” highlighting a desire for a more compassionate approach to tax delinquency. In response, the mayor clarified that these rates were mandated by state statute and standardized across towns to ensure uniformity. After further discussion, the resolution passed with all members voting in favor.

The meeting also included routine annual reorganizational activities, such as the administration of oaths of office for newly elected council members Eric Range and Melissa Hanahan. The mayor also took a moment to reflect on significant achievements from the past year, including the completion of an accessible playground at Dodge Field and the reconstruction of the Cook Avenue parking lot, projects aimed at enhancing community spaces.

Additionally, the mayor highlighted Madison’s recognition as a midsize sustainable champion and his receipt of a leadership award, attributing these honors to the community’s collective efforts. He emphasized the importance of local initiatives in addressing climate change, stating that other municipalities across the state look to Madison for ideas in creating a sustainable future. Future projects discussed included plans to renovate the East wing of the Hartley Dodge Memorial and the restoration of the Heler Center, with financial support from a grant and county preservation funds.