The library budget took center stage with the library director outlining operations and the significant increase in children’s book circulation and program popularity. Financial discussions included the library’s sources of income, such as donations and support from the Tenafly Library Friends, and the budget allocation for books and technology. The conversation expanded to the potential future construction costs for a new library building, as well as the ongoing maintenance needs and the possibility of a new municipal complex or community center. There was interest in the possibility of using reserve funds for future construction, with the library director providing square footage information and estimated building costs.

In connection with the library’s future, the debate on the use of the Reserve year fund turnover and the Borough’s ability to appeal for surplus funds from the library was significant. The 20% cap on the previous year’s operating expenses was a focal point, as was the capital budget for the library. The council contemplated using funds for enhancements within the structure and potential locations for a new library, emphasizing the importance of maintenance for existing buildings.

The tax assessor’s report was another issue, noting minimal changes but significant additions to the tax list and the impact of property appeals. The resilience of the market and uncertainties surrounding future trends, especially concerning interest rates, were addressed. There was concern over the number of residential tax appeals and their impact on the town’s revenue. The strategy of filing cross-appeals to discourage excessive tax appeals and maintain fairness was deliberated.

Discussion turned to the implementation of new software for digitized tax maps, focusing on functionality, departmental impact, and public availability. Questions about costs, potential revenue generation, and the necessity for further research before decision-making were raised.

Operational efficiency and tax increases were also on the agenda, with debate over the use of overtime versus hiring new staff. The council addressed the changes in leaf and compost collection due to new state requirements and the associated budget impacts. A proposed cost of $224,000 for leaf removal was discussed, alongside rental or purchase of equipment, shared services, and the installation of a new recycling compactor.

Public Works discussions included the Richard Street Pump Station and its new emergency generator, requiring noise mitigation for the neighboring area. Updates on the PSC gas line replacement project and the need for road paving coordination were provided. Maintenance concerns, such as the Rose Garden’s costs and an abandoned oil water separator tank, were debated, highlighting compliance and environmental challenges.

The council discussed the Public Works budget, including the purchase of cameras and equipment, and the possibility of bundling orders to save money. Debates about replacing a plow truck and the purchase of electric vehicles reflected concerns over cost-effectiveness. Other discussions included tools for the DPW garage, equipment replacement, and the use of thermoplastic line striping for road maintenance.

The allocation of funds for major street maintenance, the necessity of a new truck for recycling, and the privatization of downtown pickups were subjects of debate. The council considered increasing the budget for drainage issues due to flooding concerns and lawsuits.

Flooding was a regional issue, with discussions on sediment buildup in waterways, outdated stormwater systems, and the effects of climate change. The possibility of forming a stormwater utility or seeking county control was mentioned.

The council’s attention to the capital budget, with a proposed $4 million and considerations for additional funding, was noteworthy. Debates on borrowing, bonding fees, and the necessity of a new Municipal complex and Community Center took place. The potential for generating interest from surplus funds and prepaying taxes for better interest rates was also discussed.