The budget for the year 2024 was a focal point of the meeting, with the Mayor thanking the departments and employees involved in the preparation process. Despite approval for the budget’s introduction, there was notable dialogue concerning the lack of a budget workshop prior to the introduction. One council member voiced frustration over the perceived inability to amend the budget. However, the Mayor clarified that while the administration and Faulkner act are responsible for preparing the budget, the council retains the authority to adopt it with possible amendments.

Following the budgetary discussions, the council engaged in a debate over an ordinance to eliminate the waiver hearing process before the planning board and zoning board. The ordinance, receiving a positive response from the council, was approved without public objection.

The meeting then shifted to address community and infrastructure topics. The council unanimously approved a motion to reduce fees for goalie hockey teams, which was met with gratitude. In addition, the consent agenda brought forth various items, leading to discussions on the police parking lot expansion and the increase in fees for the administrative agent for affordable housing. Despite a motion to table the resolution on parking lot expansion, the council voted against it and proceeded with the approval of the other agenda items.

A grant estimate for the construction of an all-inclusive playground stirred debate regarding the cost and grant cap. Concerns were also raised over streetlight outages, with council members urging residents to report them to facilitate prompt repairs.

A council member took the floor to recognize Black History Month, advocating for the integration of Black history into the American history curriculum year-round. The meeting also acknowledged local achievements, celebrating individuals named ambassador of the year and Elk citizen of the year for their contributions to the community.

A council member proposed a resolution to support LGBTQ+ community protections, but confusion over the resolution’s specifics led to a decision to further discuss the matter.

Frustrations over streetlights and power outages persisted, with a council member calling for proactive reporting by residents. Moreover, discussions about the state’s educational approach surfaced, with explicit library content being a point of concern.