One notable issue addressed was the impact of the layoffs and shared services agreements on the lives of correction officers. Public comments were charged with emotion as current and former officers recounted the personal hardships they face due to the decision. One speaker detailed the distress of losing their job after 16 years of service, while another, a military member, spoke of the sacrifices correctional officers made during the COVID-19 pandemic without proper support from the county. The speakers urged the board to reconsider the layoffs, emphasizing the officers’ dedication to the county.

Representatives from the New Jersey State PBA criticized the layoffs as a bad faith negotiation that could affect safety and security. They highlighted the stress and emotional toll on employees and called for love and accountability in the treatment of the staff. Concerns were also raised about potential biases or discrimination in the hiring process for sheriff’s officers.

In response to the impassioned appeals, county officials attempted to address the layoffs. The meeting closed with a sense of unresolved tension.

Financial transparency was another central topic with residents scrutinizing the budget resolutions and amendments for the 2024 County budget. Concerns were raised over specific budget line items and the increases in departments such as the Sheriff’s Office and the Division of Police, among others. The lack of clear explanations for these changes prompted calls for greater transparency and accountability. Questions were also directed at the county’s management of debt, reserves, and the open space trust fund. Despite concerns, commissioners supported the county’s financial management practices, referencing a AAA bond rating and favorable assessments from Moody’s rating agency.

A discussion about the county’s surplus led to a reminder of the lack of statutory requirement for the amount of surplus needed and referenced a situation in 2012 where a large surplus led to layoffs. The budget for 2024 was noted for maintaining a low percentage increase, with acknowledgments of the fiscal department’s conservative budgeting.

Public comments also addressed resolutions involving the Ashbrook restoration project and the approval of an amendment to the 2024 budget. A speaker questioned the allocation of funds to CME Associates for the restoration project, the purchase of pickup trucks for the Department of Public Works, and the implications of a lawsuit involving the county and a law firm.

The commissioners presented reports on various community initiatives and events. They invited residents with special needs to a “Paint in the Park” event and thanked everyone involved in the “Wild EarthFest.” The expansion of a reusable bag recycling program, free paper shredding events, and an initiative to reduce litter in parks were also mentioned. Encouragement was given to residents to become poll workers for the upcoming primary election, and Union College was congratulated for its recognition as a semifinalist for the Aspen Prize for Community College Excellence.