The council deliberated on the purchase of two new police vehicles after considering the longevity and maintenance costs of the current fleet. Concerns were raised over the mileage on the existing vehicles and the potential issues that could arise as they age. The potential for a more environmentally friendly fleet was also discussed, with suggestions for the inclusion of hybrid vehicles. Ultimately, the decision was made to forego the extended warranties on the new vehicles and reallocate the funds from the vehicle maintenance budget.

This decision was part of a broader conversation about the police department’s budget, which included examining salary and wages, special police officers, grants, office supplies, and equipment. The debate over extended warranties was a focal point, with skepticism about the necessity and cost-effectiveness of this additional expense.

The council also reviewed budgets across various departments, including finance, tax, legal services, the planning board, board of adjustment, and inspector of buildings. There was a thorough discussion on the need for office supplies, professional memberships, and future state requirements for digital plan review and permitting. Concerns about penalties for failing to meet state requirements were also brought up.

Moreover, discussions about facility improvements touched on the need for security buttons in certain building areas, challenges in procuring a hybrid vehicle, and the potential cost increases associated with the purchase. The possibility of outfitting a Chevy Tahoe for police use was mentioned, with considerations for local suppliers offering modifications at a discounted rate.

The council’s conversation on budget allocations extended to various maintenance and improvement projects within the borough. There was a debate on whether to reallocate $7,000 from park maintenance to shade tree maintenance, highlighting the council’s interest in having more control over the allocation of funds for such projects. The potential for the Department of Public Works to handle tree pruning and the maintenance itself was suggested. Projects at the community center and Wetwat Park, including painting, gutter and railing repairs, and the installation of benches and fencing near the pickleball court, were also discussed, delving into the specifics of cost and project specifications.

Budget items for road maintenance, vehicle maintenance, and sanitation services were scrutinized, with a notable debate on the rise in tipping fees for sanitation and its impact on residents. The council addressed concerns regarding the increase in pick-up frequency for recycling and the associated costs.

Within the administrative expenses, the council scrutinized various line items, including salary and wages, postage, office supplies, advertising and printing, and miscellaneous expenses. A notable point of contention was the Farmers Market expenses, where members debated whether to classify them under Business Development or a separate line item, and how the revenue from vendors should be handled.

The meeting also involved a discussion on health insurance for retirees, with a reported decrease of $2,000 despite a 25% increase since 2021. Contributions to local organizations and the consideration of using trust funds for donations were also on the agenda.