The approval of the 2024 budget was a critical point of discussion, with the Council expressing appreciation for the budget process and its transparency. The Council highlighted the necessity for fiscal responsibility and the importance of revenue generation. Particular emphasis was placed on capital investments and repairs to infrastructure and buildings, including the Community Center roof. There was a call to pass ordinances for necessary repairs and for upcoming affordable housing conversations. The budget’s modest increase was deemed supportable by the Council, which concluded with a focus on other repairs and the prioritization of community projects.

During the public hearing on the budget, the need for updating the status of the budget line item for pickleball and tennis courts was raised, with members of the council echoing the desire to allocate more funding towards recreation. The CFO presented an amendment resolution related to the annual financial statement, which noted changes based on state recommendations. This resolution passed unanimously.

The Council also tackled the topic of community resilience in the wake of the hate crime against Our Lady of the Lake Church. The damage to the church prompted discussions about ensuring community protection and addressing mental health issues. The resilience of the community was praised, with confidence expressed that the church would be rebuilt and that the community’s spirit remained unbroken. Autism Awareness Month was acknowledged, with a call for inclusivity within the community.

Council members reported on various committee updates, including the setting of a date for the Annual Pride flag raising and planning an event for Older Americans Month at the Verona public library. The importance of volunteer recognition was highlighted, commending the library staff and volunteers for their contributions to the community.

The public comments section brought attention to the inclusion of pickleball in the budget, with gratitude expressed by a resident. An interesting proposition regarding pickleball as a shared service at a local university was discussed, with the Deputy Mayor and a council member finding it to be a noteworthy idea. An ordinance related to the financing of a project to redesign a field was introduced, with calls for more detail about the expenses involved.

Amendments to the Township Code’s schedule of fees, including zoning fees and retail consumption and distribution license fees, were introduced. The delayed date change in one of the ordinances was appreciated, emphasizing the need for a fully operational zoning office before implementing new fees.

Further issues addressed included discrepancies in appointment dates for the deputy registrar, membership restrictions for the Verona Community Pool, and rates charged to nonprofits for pre-season pool parties. A suggestion to improve the organization of pool rules was proposed, and a resolution concerning the rates for nonprofits was tabled pending a comprehensive response from the administration.

A council member raised the topic of a more in-depth discussion about the proposed Capital plan in an upcoming meeting. Concerns about the Verona emergency horn were brought up by a resident, prompting a proposal from the mayor to form a working group to review its use.