The Maplewood Police Department’s plans for the coming year were a focal point, with the department emphasizing the need for upgraded equipment and training to ensure community safety. A decrease in robberies, auto thefts, and property thefts was reported as part of the department’s achievements in the past year. The council discussed the department’s community outreach programs and the importance of de-escalation and crisis intervention training.

One notable topic was the proposal to modernize the outdated police radio system. A shift to a state-run communication system was deliberated, promising better quality and reliability. The potential costs and loss of control over the communication infrastructure were weighed against the operational benefits. In addition to the radio system, the police department expressed the need for new equipment, including a radar trailer for managing speeding and traffic flow, a portable surveillance camera for investigations, and an upgrade from analog to digital for the existing public safety cameras.

The council also explored potential changes to the crossing guard program, debating the benefits and costs of outsourcing services. The members requested additional documents to review before making a final decision on both the radio system and crossing guard services.

Another issue was the presentation from the Springfield Avenue Partnership, which highlighted the past year’s successes and plans for strategic initiatives. The council showed particular interest in the proposed budget, with discussions on funding for cleaning around a community fridge and public art projects. The need for collaboration between the Springfield Avenue Partnership and the Maplewood Village Alliance to promote the town’s business districts was also emphasized.

Ranella Walker, the Executive Director for the Maplewood Village Alliance, presented the organization’s 2023 highlights and 2024 goals, including the addition of new businesses and the successful execution of traditional events. The council debated the financial sustainability of the MVA’s budget, which included a 3% increase in assessment and plans to seek grants to support their initiatives.

The Community Coalition on Race and YouthNet also presented, with the latter focusing on a new mental health initiative. The YouthNet representatives discussed the need for additional funding to support the growing demand for services and the effectiveness of the initiative, which received supportive feedback from the council.

Furthermore, the meeting addressed the Health Department’s achievements and upcoming goals, such as implementing the first Municipal homeless Outreach and engagement program and enhancing community health outreach efforts. Questions arose about the termination of the animal control services contract with the Township of Bloomfield, with the council planning to issue a request for proposal for these services.

The council reviewed multiple grants received by various departments, including those for youth programs and drug prevention efforts, as well as the NJ Enhancing Local Health Infrastructure Grant, which offsets department salaries. The library director provided an update on the new library construction, funded by an $8.3 million grant.

Financial discussions included the township’s revaluation and the financing of a $33 million bond. The successful $15 million bond, which came in at $31.1 million with a 3.12% interest rate, was highlighted for the significant savings it offered taxpayers. The council also considered transitioning to electronic purchasing and expanding the online payment portal.

In terms of budget planning, the council examined deferred charges, reserve for uncollected taxes, and the potential increase of reserves for tax appeals. They also looked into the necessity of budgeting for tax appeals and the impact on taxpayers. The finance department’s transition from server-based to cloud-based systems and the increased frequency of contacting delinquent taxpayers were also discussed.