During the public comment segment, a representative from a local animal rescue organization conveyed severe frustrations about the inadequate support for animal control and rescue operations. The representative emphasized the dire financial strain on their facility, noting a crippling debt of approximately $100,000. They highlighted the overwhelming influx of cats and kittens under their care, with nine currently housed and 15 more awaiting accommodation. Pleading for assistance, the representative remarked, “I’m begging for help. Any kind of help,” and noted their personal contributions of resources to the community. This urgent appeal prompted a council member to commit to investigating the situation and visiting the facility to better understand the needs.

The meeting also addressed the community’s dissatisfaction with the state of downtown development. Residents expressed frustration over the absence of holiday decorations and the perceived neglect of the area. A resident criticized past council comments labeling the downtown a “ghost town” and highlighted the presence of active businesses. They urged the council to enhance the appearance of the downtown area with municipal signs and decorations, stating, “it’d be nice if you can get some holiday decorations.” This appeal for improvement was coupled with a call for better signage to direct customers to public parking, emphasizing a desire for the council to set a positive example for business owners and the community.

In response, the council discussed ongoing efforts to revitalize Main Street, acknowledging the challenges posed by road work and the need to boost business activity. The council recognized the complaints regarding closures and traffic disruptions but urged residents to be patient. They emphasized ongoing discussions with developers to stimulate more activity in the area, stating that communication with the public remains a priority as these efforts progress.

The council meeting also covered several legislative and project updates. The council conducted first readings of three ordinances: a financial agreement for a property on Main Street, amendments to the rental properties chapter, and an increase in fees for rental inspections. These ordinances passed on first reading, with second readings and public hearings scheduled for December 15, 2025.

Project updates provided by a council representative included progress on local aid programs, noting completion of the punch list for the 2023 project and a pending final inspection from the Department of Transportation. The 2025 local aid program’s design work was ongoing, with an expected completion the following month. The council also recommended awarding the 2025 electrical substation project bid to Reese’s Service of Farmington, New Jersey, for $131,540.

Financial resolutions introduced included a temporary suspension of parking meter enforcement from Thanksgiving to Christmas, a chapter 159 resolution for two new grants—including a $21,000 grant from the police department and a substantial one million dollar grant—and certification of the 2024 audit, which received a clean opinion.

Fire department activities were also reviewed, with the fire chief reporting 458 calls year-to-date and highlighting a major fire incident at Willlet Green, successfully extinguished with county assistance. The fire department’s current challenges include two units being out of service.

Council members shared community announcements, including a community Thanksgiving dinner scheduled for November 27, 2025, at St. Peter and Paul Orthodox Church, and a holiday concert at the library on December 13, both requiring registration. Additionally, an upcoming Environmental Shade Tree Commission meeting and free concerts at the Imperial Music Center and St. Peter and Paul Church were announced, with council members expressing gratitude toward veterans ahead of Veterans Day.

As the meeting concluded, the mayor urged community vigilance during the colder months, encouraging residents to check on neighbors, particularly the elderly. The council then entered a closed session to discuss litigation matters.