The meeting’s most notable segment revolved around Resolution 337, supporting the Immigration Trust Act, which drew a series of public comments. Lisa Jordan expressed gratitude for the resolution, emphasizing the act’s role in reducing fear and encouraging access to essential services for all residents, including immigrants. In contrast, John Du voiced concerns about the act’s implications for local resources and safety, questioning the support for organizations like “Wind of the Spirit” and the necessity of increased law enforcement resources.

Mary Wilson, a Sherwood resident, articulated apprehensions regarding the act’s potential to hinder local law enforcement’s collaboration with federal authorities, questioning the benefits of such restrictions. She argued that communication across various levels of law enforcement is vital for public safety, referencing lessons from past national tragedies. Michael Sorano further criticized the act, particularly its potential unintended consequences for inner-city youth facing gang threats.

Supporters of the resolution, such as Andreaa, a former resident and teacher, highlighted the positive contributions of immigrants to Madison’s community, calling for support of the act. Meanwhile, Kristen Calor expressed concerns over the lack of balanced media coverage and the financial impact on taxpayers.

The council clarified that the resolution would not alter local policing operations but aimed to protect individuals seeking help without fear of deportation.

In addition to immigration, the council addressed financial topics, particularly related to the borough’s electric utility. Rising operational costs, attributed to changes in electricity generation classification by the regional transmission organization, PJM, prompted discussions on suspending the electric utility dividend. The CFO explained that the suspension was a necessary measure to maintain budget balance without immediate rate increases, despite anticipated $4 million cost hikes.

Council members debated the implications of this suspension, with concerns raised about the impact on residents’ cost of living. The suspension, characterized as a “temporary rate adjustment,” was initially a response to transitioning from costly contracts to more favorable ones. The council acknowledged the complexities of the PJM market, including supply and demand dynamics and capacity charges, which have increased due to interconnection request backlogs.

Discussions also touched on local strategies to mitigate capacity charges, such as potential solar installations and battery backup systems to reduce peak demand. A proposal for time-of-use rates aimed at encouraging energy conservation during peak hours was mentioned, with plans to test this voluntary program.

The financial outlook for Madison’s electric utility, despite external pressures, was noted as relatively stable, avoiding rate increases seen in other municipalities. The decision to suspend the dividend was formalized, with a motion seconded and approved.

The council’s agenda also included various ordinances and resolutions, such as Ordinance 34-2024 on privately owned salt storage and Ordinance 36-2024 revising salary ranges for non-union full-time employees, both adopted without public comment. Ordinance 37-2024, concerning water rates and service fees revisions, was also passed unanimously, with emphasis on outreach and education for high water users.

A significant portion of the meeting focused on the Green Acres planning grant application, aimed at supporting open space, recreational opportunities, and historic preservation efforts. The proposed grant, expected to be submitted by February 2025, would assist in paying off the Madison Recreational Center debt, acquiring the Drew Forest, and securing additional land from Drew University.

The meeting concluded with discussions on open space capital capacity and the year-end cancellation process, reallocating leftover funds from completed projects back to the capital improvement program. The council expressed confidence in the strategic guidelines that have maintained the borough’s fiscal health.