A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to addressing the proposed ordinance concerning licensing fees for local beauty salons and massage parlors. The health officer emphasized the necessity of this ordinance to ensure the safety and welfare of Verona’s residents. The ordinance seeks to mandate regular inspections of these establishments, as state-issued licenses do not guarantee annual checks. The proposed fees included $25 for beauty salons and barber shops, but a much higher $250 for massage establishments. This disparity prompted questions from the council about the rationale behind the fees, specifically why massage establishments are subjected to such a higher fee. The health officer justified the higher fee by pointing to the rigorous training and certification requirements for massage therapists and the need for increased oversight to prevent illegal activities.

One council member suggested a grace period of 90 to 180 days for businesses to comply with the new ordinance, emphasizing the need for an educational component to help business owners understand the regulations. Another member expressed the need for consistency in the fee structure, highlighting that fees should reflect the actual costs of inspections while not being punitive to local businesses.

The council’s deliberations on pool management were also a focal point of the meeting. Discussions included proposals for the 2026 pool season, where a 2% increase in membership fees was proposed, alongside the introduction of a payment plan to make memberships more accessible. The council considered a pilot program offering 100 out-of-town memberships at a rate of $1,000 per family, with potential gradual fee increases in subsequent years. This initiative aimed to address the declining membership numbers while maintaining revenue streams. Staffing adjustments were proposed to align with attendance patterns from the previous season, with a focus on reducing office staff without negatively impacting operations.

In discussing the pool’s budget, concerns were raised about its financial sustainability, particularly with operational costs projected to outpace income from the proposed rate adjustments. A $60,000 anticipated deficit highlighted the need for drawing from surplus funds. Marketing strategies, such as hosting community events and exploring sponsorship opportunities, were suggested to increase revenue and community engagement.

Community feedback on the pool was extensive, with residents suggesting changes to membership criteria, such as raising the age limit for dependent children from 24 to 26, aligning with health insurance policies. Suggestions also included accommodating families with adult disabled children in the membership structure.

The council also tackled the township’s affordable housing plan, with notice of a settlement conference scheduled to address objections to the plan. This is part of ongoing efforts to meet state-mandated affordable housing requirements and address community concerns about development impacts. The township’s manager reported that stakeholder meetings for the Bloomfield Avenue streetscape project were ongoing, with input being gathered to guide the redevelopment plan’s vision for sustainable development and improved stormwater management.

In the public comment period, residents raised concerns about the financial burden of proposed licensing fees and the need for the council to reconsider these fees, especially given the challenges faced by small family-operated businesses. Feedback from residents also included suggestions for improving pool accessibility, such as offering a couples’ rate and a referral program to attract more members. The community’s engagement in these discussions highlighted the importance of responsive governance in addressing local issues and ensuring a vibrant, inclusive community.