The meeting commenced with a discussion on the 2025 municipal budget, opening the floor to public comments. A resident questioned the budget’s notable figures, citing a $74,000 decrease in surplus and a $446,000 increase in salaries and wages. The administration attributed the surplus reduction to a large tax appeal settlement in 2024 and explained that the salary increase stemmed from contractual obligations and the hiring of new police officers to fill existing positions. Additionally, a $273,000 increase in the water utility was linked to a rate hike from the Pake Valley Water Commission. These clarifications aimed to address residents’ concerns about fiscal management and transparency.

The council also addressed the potential impact of new housing developments on the school district’s budget. It was noted that the cost per student might not necessarily lead to substantial expenses for the district, as the school funding formula considers various factors beyond mere enrollment numbers. The council unanimously approved the 2025 municipal budget after discussing amendments that adjusted pension appropriations and reduced taxes through increased surplus use.

Affordable housing requirements were another focal point of the meeting. An attorney for the township clarified that the current housing estimates are preliminary and likely inflated. The township is not obligated to construct a specific number of units immediately but must present a plan within ten years and demonstrate progress to avoid penalties. Upcoming finalized numbers are anticipated in several months, providing more clarity on the township’s obligations.

Community input influenced the council’s approach to the Market Street property development. While developers showed interest in residential projects, many proposals did not align with community preferences for lower density. The council committed to presenting viable proposals at public meetings.

Infrastructure issues were also discussed, particularly road paving responsibilities in collaboration with Public Service Electric and Gas (PSEG). PSEG is required to repave roads from the center line to the curb after gas main replacements, and if a road is under a moratorium, they must repave the entire road. Plans for PSEG to commence paving in the fall are underway, with a schedule being developed in partnership with the township.

Security concerns at the local Walmart were addressed, with ongoing discussions between the police chief and Walmart’s management about implementing concrete measures. The Mayor suggested that visible security could deter criminal activity, emphasizing the importance of addressing community safety proactively.

Tax concerns were another prominent topic, with council members acknowledging that rising costs, including healthcare contributions, have led to increased taxes. The breakdown of tax allocation was shared, highlighting that schools receive 55%, municipal services 32%, and the county 10%. Despite the budget’s growth, no new positions have been added, and staff consolidation efforts continue. The average tax bill is slightly over $10,000, with less than $4,000 allocated to municipal services.

The Mayor expressed frustration with public reluctance to accept tax increases, noting that essential services cannot be cut without significant consequences. He highlighted the challenges of the budget year, acknowledging that while residents pay more, service levels remain consistent with previous years.

Several ordinances were up for final reading, including those related to abandoned property rehabilitation, unsafe buildings, floodplain management regulations, water rate adjustments, and a bond ordinance for appropriations. The council discussed the repair of the municipal building’s canopy roof and the upcoming paving of Midland Avenue and Westminster Avenue by Bergen County.

Community engagement was encouraged through discussions on recent events and upcoming initiatives. The council praised the successful fireworks display and the summer camp program while promoting future events like a sensory-friendly car show and National Night Out. The Green Team’s social media outreach efforts were also highlighted, with plans to attend National Night Out for increased community interaction.