37:23The 2025 municipal budget, totaling over $15 million, was adopted with no public objections after a hearing where no comments were made. This budget includes appropriations for municipal purposes, open space, and library tax. The council moved swiftly through the budget discussion.

48:47A substantial portion of the meeting focused on rising energy costs, particularly for electricity. Brian Vita, the executive director of the Public Power Association of New Jersey, detailed the projected increase in capacity costs for Madison, which are expected to rise from approximately $800,000 to $2.75 million. Despite these rises, the council had not increased electric rates since 2010. Vita commended the council’s decision, noting the broader context of impending rate hikes from investor-owned utilities, expected to begin in June 2025 with increases ranging from 17% to 20%. Vita explained that these increases are driven by heightened electricity demand, partly due to the proliferation of data centers, and a corresponding decrease in supply, exacerbated by the retirement of older power plants and prolonged approval processes for new facilities.

PJM, the regional transmission organization, was a focal point of discussion. Governor Shapiro of Pennsylvania filed a complaint with the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission against PJM’s rules, prompting public pressure and subsequent regulatory changes. PJM introduced a reliability resource initiative to expedite the interconnection process for up to 50 shovel-ready power plants, although the timeline for their completion remains uncertain. An artificial price collar was implemented by PJM to stabilize market revenues. However, concerns were raised about the potential impact of this price cap on supply and demand dynamics, with suggestions that it could lead to a shortage as generators might not be incentivized to meet demand.

40:31Public comments included a notable address by Ken Dolski, a member of Empower New Jersey, who urged the council to support the Climate Super Fund Act. Dolski highlighted the financial impacts of climate change, warning that by 2050, it could result in a loss of 10% of U.S. GDP. He emphasized the severe economic implications for New Jersey, including rising property insurance costs and the billions already spent to combat climate-related challenges. The council was encouraged to join other municipalities in passing the Climate Super Fund Act to hold polluters accountable for environmental damage.

24:08The meeting also highlighted infrastructure and environmental initiatives. Updates were provided on the Cook Avenue parking lot, the MRC solar carport project, and ongoing preparations for spring sports by the Department of Public Works. A grant application was submitted for improvements to Shady Lawn Drive, and a letter of intent for a new trails grant in Summer Hill Park was accepted. The council organized road resurfacing through a cooperative, targeting specific streets for improvement.

13:20In support of mental health awareness, a proclamation was presented recognizing May as Mental Health Awareness Month. The proclamation emphasized the importance of mental health, early intervention, and community responsibility in promoting awareness. Stephanie Lemie, a board member of the support network of Madison, spoke in favor of the proclamation and invited the community to a kickoff event. The initiative aims to reduce loneliness and increase social connections.

01:18:07The council also addressed various ordinances, including those related to utility connection fees and fiber expansion. Ordinance 16-2025 appropriated $28,000 for fiber expansion, and ordinances 13-2025, 14-2025, and 15-2025 updated electric, water, and sewer connection fees. Another ordinance, 9-2025, amended lead-based paint inspection fees, while ordinance 12-2025 involved tree protection and land development.

11:35In other community updates, the Madison Environmental Commission participated in the Green Fair and EV Expo. A young participant, Maya from Chatham, introduced wildflower kits to encourage environmental action. The Downtown Development Commission’s next meeting was scheduled, with upcoming events like the Madison Farm and Artisan Market and a jazz concert on Mother’s Day.