During the public comment period, Lyn Caperryi voiced her concerns about the council passing ordinances on the first reading while a new commission was set to take office, arguing that such decisions should be reserved for the incoming commission. The possibility of raising trash fees drew attention, with Caperryi questioning the necessity and timing of these changes, particularly as they came after the budget had already been adopted. She emphasized the need for more public commentary on resolutions that could have long-term impacts on residents, especially those with disabilities or on fixed incomes.

The council members engaged in a discussion about the proposed trash fee increases. One commissioner expressed frustration with raising rates without clear justification, noting the lack of surplus in the solid waste fund compared to the sewer department, which had a surplus. Another commissioner echoed these concerns, questioning the urgency of voting on resolutions affecting future budgets, especially when there was no immediate risk of losing funds. The deliberations highlighted the importance of maintaining fairness in fee structures and the potential burden on residents.

The conversation also touched on budget allocations, specifically regarding the police department. Questions were raised about significant transfers from the police budget to cover deficits in other departments, with concerns about the transparency of these decisions and whether new commissioners had been adequately consulted. The council acknowledged the necessity of certain payments, such as those owed to Vineland for Urban Enterprise Zone (UEZ) funds, which could not be delayed.

In addition to discussions on trash fees, the council considered various contracts and resolutions, including a resolution concerning fire hydrants for $18,000 and engineering services related to a secondary clarifier project. There was confusion regarding the project’s timeline and costs, leading to a clarification that $351,000 had been encumbered against the capital from the outset. A motion to table an ordinance related to trash services revealed mixed reactions among council members, with some supporting the motion and others opposing it.

The purchase of two SUVs for nearly $96,000 also sparked debate. Tim Cardi raised concerns about the timing of this major capital purchase just weeks before a new commission and mayor take office. A representative from the commission explained that the SUVs were to be used by a department for a year before being transferred to the police department, reiterating that this purchase method had been a practice for the past three years.

As the meeting continued, the council unanimously approved a five-year tax agreement with Godi Enterprises and a bond ordinance for water utility improvements, both receiving no public comment. A resolution to approve an agreement between the city and the administrators union was also passed without comment. Other resolutions included amendments to contracts for engineering services related to the wastewater treatment plant and funding for the Millville Vineland Urban Enterprise Zone.

Public comments concluded with expressions of appreciation for the commissioners’ service and reports on community efforts, such as the volunteer recognition dinner attended by 150 residents. The commissioners were invited to make closing comments, with several reflecting on their experiences and the challenges faced during their tenure. Commissioner Huitt expressed gratitude to the public safety team, while Vice Mayor Watson highlighted the importance of community engagement and the complexities of city governance.