The meeting saw intense scrutiny over the city’s financial practices, particularly regarding past employee payments. A letter from the state controller’s office revealed that the city had improperly paid a former business administrator around $165,000, with $83,987 attributed to unauthorized sick leave payments. This revelation prompted frustration among residents, who questioned the council’s plans to recover the funds amidst rising property taxes. A council representative clarified that the total improperly paid was $83,000, with the rest being compliant with the personnel manual. Discussions are ongoing to prevent such issues in the future, including revising severance pay policies. Residents demanded transparency and accountability, emphasizing the financial burden on taxpayers due to these errors. They requested a full report detailing the nature of past employee contracts and payments, stressing the importance of truthfulness and corrective action.

Public safety also emerged as a critical concern, with residents expressing fear over inadequate police presence and enforcement. One resident highlighted the insufficient number of officers available at night, questioning the allocation of police resources. The dialogue revealed a shared apprehension about violent crimes targeting Pleasantville and the perceived ineffectiveness of law enforcement. The council was urged to reassess police staffing levels and consider a resolution to amend them if necessary. Additionally, residents reported ongoing issues with panhandling, particularly along Main Street, and called for stricter enforcement of existing ordinances. The need for brighter streetlights to enhance safety was also a focal point, with suggestions to partner with Atlantic City Electric for subsidized lighting upgrades in commercial areas.

Community concerns extended to public health and sanitation, with reports of a growing rodent population due to improper trash disposal. One resident detailed her struggles with pest control, lamenting the lack of city-issued trash cans and the use of makeshift containers for waste. Despite efforts to bolster the code enforcement office, residents remained dissatisfied with the lack of tangible improvements in their neighborhoods. They reiterated the need for effective management of city resources and urged the council to address these persistent issues.

The meeting also addressed transportation challenges for senior citizens, with limited access to a county-provided 16-passenger bus. The mayor explained that the bus serves multiple purposes, leaving only one day per month for senior use. Residents emphasized the need for additional transportation options and suggested reaching out to the county for further assistance. The council discussed the possibility of acquiring additional buses through the county’s vehicle turnover system, highlighting the logistical challenges involved.

In an effort to foster community spirit, the council approved resolutions for Thanksgiving food distribution events and a community dinner scheduled for November 20th. These initiatives aim to engage residents and address immediate community needs.

Residents expressed frustration over the council’s perceived inaction, urging for more proactive measures to address financial mismanagement and enhance public safety. The proposal to refer the matter of past expenditures to the county prosecutor for further investigation passed.