The meeting began with a motion to add resolution number 271 for 2024, concerning a coin toss for Lincoln H., to the agenda, which received unanimous support from the council members present. The focus then shifted to a series of proclamations recognizing notable community contributions. The mayor honored Ailia Shar, a lifelong resident and Middlesex High School graduate, for her over two decades of service on the Middlesex Board of Health. Shar’s negotiation of a public health service contract saved the borough approximately $500,000 over the last 14 years. The mayor expressed gratitude on behalf of the council and the borough, highlighting Shar’s commitment and dedication. Shar acknowledged the recognition with humility, thanking the council and emphasizing the collective effort required for community service.

Following this, Robert Sher, another lifelong resident and former mayor, was similarly honored. Sher urged community members, particularly the younger generations, to take an active role in local governance, stating, “It’s easy to sit back and say things should be done a certain way or offer criticisms; it’s harder to get involved and really try to make a difference in our community.” This sentiment was echoed by others present, highlighting the ongoing need for community engagement.

The meeting continued with proclamations for Breast Cancer Awareness Month and Domestic Violence Awareness Month. The breast cancer awareness proclamation aimed to raise awareness and encourage screening while mentioning local initiatives like Dance For the Cure. The domestic violence awareness proclamation recognized the impact across demographics and expressed support for Women Aware Incorporated and the Middlesex Domestic Violence Response Team. A council member noted the police department’s significant support during critical times.

Following the proclamations, the council discussed the annual reassessment program. A representative explained the necessity of the program, noting that the state mandated the town to catch up on reassessments. The representative emphasized that the goal was to maintain accurate property records and avoid the need for another costly full reassessment in the future. Residents expressed concerns about the reassessment program’s fairness and financial implications. Joza, a resident, questioned the cost-effectiveness of the phased revaluation program.

In response, Dominic clarified that 20% of properties would be reinspected and reassessed annually, while the remaining 80% would undergo reassessment without immediate inspection. Dominic noted that the phased approach aimed to avoid discrepancies from unchecked assessments, which could lead to significant inequities.

Concerns about the impact of COVID-19 on property assessments were raised, with a reported 50% participation rate in inspections during the pandemic. It was suggested that some homeowners might be hesitant to allow inspectors in due to unpermitted improvements, fearing increased taxes. A representative explained that data from previous inspections, sales data, and online listings were used to evaluate properties. They emphasized that homeowners who did not grant access for an inspection might end up paying less, as unknown features would not be accounted for in their assessment.

Further concerns were raised about the financial implications of property tax appeals, with a representative acknowledging ongoing appeals but expressing confidence in the assessment process. A resident expressed fears that successful appeals could lead to lower tax revenues, increasing taxes for remaining property owners. The representative clarified that the reassessment process aimed to distribute the tax burden equitably rather than generate more revenue for the town.

In the public comments section, an individual humorously commented on potential tax increases and expressed gratitude towards two community members for their volunteer work. Another resident raised a question about how the assessment process accounts for different family situations living in a single-family home. The representative clarified that the focus was on property features rather than occupancy situations, adding that any concerning conditions observed during property visits would be reported to code enforcement.

The council also discussed new ordinances related to stormwater control and the creation of a green team subcommittee within the Environmental Commission, both of which received unanimous approval. Amendments to the bylaws of the Board of Health and regulations surrounding junkyards and junk dealers proceeded through the required public hearing and approval processes without opposition.

Updates on community events were provided, including an American Legion barbecue contest and a fundraiser for the Elks and Troopers United Foundation. The council also addressed concerns about non-living spaces being rented out to families, highlighting safety issues and the need for code enforcement to investigate complaints.

The council mentioned the switch from Middlesex to Somerset County for the borough’s health contract due to dissatisfaction with the previous provider’s performance. Financial reports and budget projections were reviewed, emphasizing the need for thorough planning and transparency in fiscal matters.