The council’s budget discussions were a focal point, with a substantial bill list totaling over $9 million set for approval. This budget included a $3.1 million payment to the county for taxes, as well as allocations for a parking lot project and sewer lift station pump replacement. The meeting marked the fifth hearing on the budget, addressing various departments like Public Works, Police, and Fire. The tax collector also provided an update on delinquent notices that had been sent out earlier in the month.

Infrastructure improvements were a significant topic, with updates on key projects. The Dodge Field accessible playground’s completion was highlighted, funded by nearly $700,000 in grants from Morris County and the state’s Green Acres Program. Although some amenities like benches and trash receptacles are pending installation, the playground was recognized as a valuable addition to the borough. Additionally, the water system project in Wellbe was reported operational after months offline, with only minor tasks remaining.

The council also discussed a major upcoming project, the solar carport at the Madison Recreation Center. With design elements nearing finalization, the project is expected to break ground soon, introducing a significant alternative energy source for the borough. The council is pursuing various infrastructure grants for road projects, including a mill and overlay program for several streets, notably Shady Lawn Drive.

Public safety was a key area of focus, particularly the Arrive Together program, which emphasizes mental health crisis intervention. Council members expressed appreciation for the police department’s efforts, noting a decrease in use-of-force incidents during mental health crises. The police chief attributed this improvement to officer training in Crisis Intervention Team (CIT) methods and de-escalation techniques. The department reported zero use-of-force incidents during 90 mental health call-outs in 2024, a marked improvement from previous years.

The police department’s presentation also highlighted proactive policing efforts, with motor vehicle stops up by 40%, traffic summons by 50%, and parking summons by 100%. A decrease in motor vehicle thefts and burglaries was noted, attributed to increased police visibility. The department also focused on community outreach, with initiatives like “Coffee with a Cop” planned to foster relationships with residents.

Environmental regulations regarding water quality were discussed in detail. The presence of three regulated compounds in the borough’s water supply was highlighted, currently measuring between 13 and 14 parts per trillion. The anticipated compliance deadline is between 2029 and 2031, prompting urgency to address these changes. The council discussed the need for infrastructure assessments in areas like West Lane, which faces significant flooding issues after heavy rainfall. A comprehensive strategy was deemed necessary to address these challenges regionally rather than with piecemeal solutions.

Further discussions included updates from the library, operating from a mini library during construction. Despite challenges, they enhanced services, including adding museum passes and launching STEM programming for younger patrons. Their goal for 2025 is to return to normal operations in their refurbished building, expected to be completed in the spring. Budget discussions highlighted an increase in statutory appropriations, primarily due to rising personnel-related expenses, including benefits costs.

The meeting also covered various resolutions, including the appointment of Pastor Carol Howard as a police chaplain and the awarding of a professional services contract for architectural and consulting work related to borough capital projects. Additionally, a license application from Madison High School’s TSO was approved, along with other routine resolutions.

The council concluded the meeting with an ordinance hearing amending electric department rules and regulations regarding time of use rates. With no public comments, the ordinance was adopted unanimously. The meeting adjourned after a brief discussion of a consent agenda and the approval of vouchers totaling over $9,588.