10:40The meeting began with a special recognition of April as Volunteer Month in Middletown. The mayor, joined by fire chiefs and emergency management officials, emphasized the invaluable contributions of volunteers to the community. He highlighted the financial savings that volunteers provide, particularly within the fire department and emergency medical services, and shared personal anecdotes illustrating their commitment, such as a specific incident where volunteers swiftly responded to a kitchen fire. The mayor proclaimed Volunteer Month officially and encouraged residents to appreciate and support the volunteers who play a role in maintaining community safety and well-being. The room responded with applause, acknowledging the volunteers present.

18:19The council also recognized April as Donate Life Month, inviting representatives from Medtronic to discuss the significance of organ donation. The mayor shared a personal story about organ donation’s impact, illustrating both the emotional and life-saving aspects of the process. Representatives from Medtronic explained that one donor could save up to eight lives, encouraging attendees to consider registering as organ donors. The session concluded with a call to action for community members to check their donor status and understand the profound effect of organ donations on individuals and families in need.

37:05A major portion of the meeting was dedicated to discussing the 2025 municipal budget. The Chief Financial Officer provided a detailed overview, highlighting a $2,524,740 increase in the municipal levy, equating to a 3.99% rise. Despite this, the tax rate was projected to decrease due to rising assessed values. The average assessed home value had risen to $728,000, resulting in a modest increase in municipal taxes for homeowners. Key cost drivers included a $330,000 rise in planning department expenses due to affordable housing litigation and an $835,000 increase in health insurance costs. The budget discussion also revealed a shortfall in energy tax receipts, with the township owed over $89 million over 23 years. This shortfall was described as nearly equivalent to the entire budget, emphasizing the need for these funds to return to local budgets to prevent tax hikes.

01:37:28Public concerns were voiced regarding shared services between the township and the school district, with residents expressing frustration over a lack of communication and collaboration. The council acknowledged that while a proposal had been made to the school district, it was rejected, and no further discussions had taken place. Residents like Kristen Rooney, involved in the PTA, highlighted the community’s desire for effective collaboration, particularly concerning school safety and budgeting matters. The council reiterated their willingness to engage in dialogue, emphasizing that the shared services discussions could continue.

01:47:28Further public comments addressed stormwater management issues, with a resident criticizing the town’s current approach as ineffective. The need for an integrated street cleaning strategy was stressed, linking it to recent brush pickup efforts. Another resident, Bruce Stafford, referenced state mandates requiring street sweeping and the associated budget and staffing implications. The council recognized these challenges and expressed a commitment to address the concerns raised by the community.

58:58Additional topics covered included the acquisition of property for recreational open space preservation, with public support expressed for the initiative. The council also discussed a proposed ordinance aimed at amending the property tax relief payment program for volunteer firefighters, highlighting its importance in supporting volunteer participation.