The meeting opened with an unexpected focus on the mayor’s seating position, which diverged from historical practice by placing the mayor at the dais with council members. This change prompted a motion to formally discuss the matter, which was seconded and led to a heated exchange. A council member underscored the importance of tradition, asserting, “There is a reason for this, and arbitrarily just to decide I want to change it doesn’t fly with me.” In contrast, another member relayed the mayor’s view that sitting separately was disrespectful.

A council member lamented the situation, mentioning that firefighters had to leave due to the discord, and expressed regret over starting the meeting on such a contentious note.

Following this contentious discussion, the council shifted its focus to celebrating community service. Andrea Bunny Cula was honored for her 50 years of dedication as part of the EMS team, receiving a plaque in recognition of her contributions. This presentation underscored the township’s values of long-term service and community appreciation.

Attention then turned to the budget, as council members discussed the approval of the 2024 budget and preparations for 2025. Notable progress was reported on the Theta 55 project, aimed at developing luxury apartments for residents aged 55 and over, which was expected to enhance commercial ratables and revitalize a previously quiet area. The council expressed collective satisfaction with this development, which addressed longstanding concerns about inactivity in the area. The same developers also assumed ownership of several lots along Main Street, garnering council approval.

The discussion moved to nominations for council leadership positions. Pat Rudo was nominated and unanimously approved as council president, while Natalie Buer received similar support for vice president. The council president emphasized the need to focus on increasing revenues and reducing taxes, acknowledging the challenging financial environment. They stated, “We have been able to do it the last three years by a combination of reducing our fund balance and also reducing our spending,” while recognizing potential tax increases might be necessary to rebuild the fund balance.

A representative from the state addressed the council regarding a cost of living adjustment (COLA) ordinance, explaining the flexibility it provides in budget adjustments up to 3.5%. The ordinance allows for necessary financial maneuvers while ensuring compliance with state requirements. The council emphasized this as an insurance policy for adjusting current and future budgets.

The financial implications of the budget raised concerns, particularly regarding state-mandated caps on appropriations. The inside cap is set to increase by 2%, allowing the council to bank the unused portion of the 1.5%, creating future budget flexibility. A council member highlighted the urgency of financial planning, referencing rising costs due to inflation, and noted, “A carton of eggs now costs twice as much as it used to.” This banking system provides a buffer for unexpected expenses, such as pension costs or contractual obligations exceeding the standard cap. Importantly, any use of the banked funds requires a resolution or ordinance passed by the council.

The meeting also addressed logistical matters, including the authorization of resolutions related to tax collector records and various appointments. Discussions on delinquent property tax penalties revealed concerns over their severity, with a member describing the interest rates as “usery.” These rates, established by state legislation, limit the council’s ability to adjust them, causing frustration among members.

Further debates included the implications of health insurance waivers for married township employees, with confusion over eligibility criteria. The temporary budget approval also sparked discussion, as a significant increase of approximately $4 million was noted compared to the previous year. Concerns centered around transparency regarding recent contract approvals and their funding sources.