The council’s introduction of a new ordinance to exceed the municipal budget appropriations limits and to establish a cap bank was a step. The approved 2024 budget incorporated the last of the federal American Rescue Plan money, which had been a critical resource for the borough. Council members highlighted the financial challenges, including an average residential tax assessment increase of $185. In addition, they raised concerns about the upcoming revaluation’s potential influence on the budget, which could affect property tax rates.

Infrastructure and community welfare were also pivotal points of discussion during the meeting. The council introduced an ordinance for the improvement of Boulevard from MTH Avenue North, which involved appropriating funds and providing for the issuance of bond anticipation notes in a move to advance the borough’s infrastructure.

Further addressing the borough’s wellbeing, the council deliberated on an ordinance to conform with the fire rules and regulations. A change in polling places for districts 8 and N, now moved from the library to the Berkeley Street school gymnasium, was announced to be effective from the June primary elections.

The meeting was not solely focused on legislation and budgets. The council took a moment of silence to pay respects to various global and local events. In particular, they remembered the late Keith Bachman, a former councilman and state Superior Court Judge, highlighting the service and legacy of borough leaders.

Appreciation for community service was a recurring theme, evident in the council’s unanimous decision to rename a conference room in honor of Kevin Kelly, thanking him for his contributions and expressing optimism for his tenure as a Superior Court judge. This gesture added a personal touch to the proceedings, connecting the council’s work with the individuals who serve the community.

The council also managed to address a range of other community concerns, from the logistics of local events such as the annual softball week opening day parade and the Memorial Day Parade to the commendation of the police department’s recent accreditation.

During the public comments section, a resident raised an issue regarding the absence of the DPW director at variance meetings, proposing that his attendance could improve the efficiency of those meetings.