The most debated topic was ordinance number five concerning rent control regulations. The council members considered tabling the ordinance, expressing the need for a special session to include input from citizens and landlords.

The 2024 municipal budget was another critical point of focus. An outside auditing firm, B Company, reviewed the budget, which included a notable 25% increase in the local levy from the previous year. The firm outlined the factors contributing to the budget, such as the special emergency appropriation for severance liabilities, debt service, operating expenses, and revenue sources, including the anticipated cannabis fees and tax collection percentages. The budget, which has been approved by the state of New Jersey for council consideration, complies with state budgetary caps.

During the public hearing on the municipal budget, community members expressed concerns over a proposed 7.6% tax increase and pay raises for city council members. Questions also arose about the cost and bidding process for roof replacement at the fire, police, and annex buildings, with additional worries about mold and health hazards in the fire department building. The council acknowledged these concerns and discussed the severance fund, highlighting the possibility of paying it off early without penalty despite rising interest rates on bonds.

The meeting also touched on community matters, including the maintenance of parks and playgrounds, with ongoing efforts to replace outdated and unsafe playground equipment. However, Unity Park remains not fully open due to structural issues and is pending approval from the state, as it involves Green Acres funding. Citizens during the public portion raised issues regarding the need for more code enforcement officers to ensure the upkeep of city properties, with one complaint specifically addressing the cleanliness of a city-owned property.

Further, the council expressed support for the suitability of a cannabis business, Green Chief LLC, aligning with new revenue streams identified in the municipal budget.

The council also addressed the execution of a memorandum of understanding between the city and the police benevolent associations, emphasizing the importance of maintaining positive relations and working conditions for law enforcement personnel.

Lastly, the meeting concluded with the announcement of a Juneteenth festival at Mount Zion Baptist Church, a cultural event that adds to the sense of community in Pleasantville. The council encouraged residents to observe banners along Main Street that represent the best of the city, as part of a broader effort to foster local pride and community engagement.