The council deliberated over the feasibility of implementing a hotel tax applicable to short-term rentals and hotel rooms, similar to the model used in Atlantic City. Concerns were raised about the potential impact of such fees on local businesses and whether they would deter visitors. While some council members argued for the necessity of understanding the current landscape of hotel occupancy in Vernon, others expressed concern about the limited data available from the state, which complicated the evaluation of the township’s financial situation. The council explored the possibility of collecting data on hotel occupancy rates to better inform their decisions.

To address these concerns, the council discussed forming a committee composed of local business owners to manage any newly collected funds. This committee could focus on marketing and tourism development, fostering a collaborative effort between the town and its business community. The idea of creating a trust fund to promote tourism was proposed, allowing local stakeholders to participate in decision-making processes. This approach was seen as a way to balance revenue generation with the interests of local businesses and the community.

Another topic was the proposal to create a Special Improvement District (SID) aimed at enhancing local business and increasing revenue streams. This initiative would involve business owners contributing a percentage towards community activities, such as holiday events and decorations, in a designated geographical area. The proposal received support from some local business owners, who saw it as an opportunity to invigorate the community and stimulate economic growth.

Public comments during the meeting highlighted various community concerns, such as difficulties in accessing detailed information about specific ordinances and the need for transparency in municipal operations. The council addressed these concerns by directing residents to available resources on the town’s website and attempting to clarify the ordinances in question.

A notable discussion also arose around the potential savings from tree removal services, specifically whether to purchase a bucket truck or continue renting and contracting services. The council weighed the high costs associated with renting equipment against the long-term savings and safety benefits of owning a truck. The estimated payback period for purchasing the truck was around five years, with the council debating the inclusion of maintenance costs in this timeframe.

The meeting also included several resolutions related to public works, such as authorizing changes for the athletic field lighting project and improvement contracts for local roads. Additionally, the council briefly debated significant expenditures for firefighting equipment, with some members calling for more discussion on such large financial commitments.

Concerns over zoning regulations and signage enforcement were raised by local business owners, who felt that current practices were unfair and inconsistent. The council acknowledged these concerns and suggested that business owners address specific issues with the compliance office.

The meeting concluded with the acknowledgment of the resignation of Chief Financial Officer Denell Bright, who was praised for her contributions to stabilizing the township’s finances. The council expressed gratitude for her leadership and presented a plaque in her honor, recognizing her impact on the community.