The potential change of the municipal election date from May to November was a focal point of the meeting. This move could result in cost savings, as outlined by the Municipal Clerk, who presented a detailed account of the election expenses amounting to $75,100. The Clerk discussed fixed and variable costs and the effect of the proposed change on these figures. The council sought clarification on the specific costs that would be eliminated and those that would remain. The financial and logistical implications of the change were hotly debated, including the need to certify the new date with the county clerk, extend terms of current officials, and address early voting concerns. There was also discussion about the practicality of combining voting districts, polling location allocation, and the challenges of staffing these locations. The discussion extended to the possibility of a non-binding referendum to gauge public sentiment on the election date change.

Public comments revealed residents’ concerns regarding the notification process for meetings about the new building development in the neighborhood. Residents requested a dedicated meeting with more notification to better involve the community in understanding the project’s impact. The Director of Public Works explained the notification system used, the community outreach done so far, and welcomed suggestions for alternative property locations for the building. The council emphasized the importance of public input and the need for improved communication with residents on this issue.

The council unanimously passed several ordinances related to utilities and capital improvements. Ordinance 2024-19 allocated $260,000 for water sewer utility system improvements, while Ordinance 2024-20 allocated $350,000 for the improvement of the pool utility, with council members expressing support for maintaining the pool infrastructure. Ordinance 2024-21 allocated a substantial $8.46 million for water and sewer improvements, and Ordinance 2024-22 allocated $3.11 million for various capital improvements across the town. Each ordinance passed without public comment but with unanimous council support.

Furthermore, Ordinance 2024-23, which allocated $10,000 for pool furniture, was passed with clarification that the funds would come from the pool utilities improvement fund, not the general township budget. The council also approved Ordinance 2024-24, appropriating $235,000 for sidewalk repairs and municipal clerk’s office software, and Ordinance 2024-25, authorizing $355,000 in bonds for the construction of Hilltop Park.

In response to public concerns about the town’s notification process for meetings, the council discussed the cost of sending out townwide mailers and the importance of using established communications tools, such as social media and newsletters. The town manager noted previous efforts to combine notifications to save costs and the use of various channels for disseminating information. The council showed willingness to consider residents’ feedback on improving the notification process.