01:06:39The council’s deliberations on changing the municipal election schedule from May to November were a focal point of the meeting. A council member expressed concerns about conflicting language in the municipal code regarding board and committee expirations. Despite recognizing the potential benefits of aligning local elections with larger national contests, some council members voiced worries about heightened partisanship, even though the ordinance maintained the nonpartisan nature of the elections. The financial implications were also a topic of concern, with election costs reportedly exceeding $75,000 to $80,000, posing a risk if shared costs with other municipalities were to rise. Ultimately, the council decided that a public hearing would be held on December 16, with the ordinance requiring a supermajority to pass.

51:05Another topic was the renovation of the pickleball courts, reflecting substantial community interest and engagement. The council addressed residents’ concerns about restricted access by proposing a locking system that limits access to Verona residents. The renovation project, which required retaining walls due to property elevation, was initially perceived as costly. However, the deputy mayor acknowledged its necessity, emphasizing the heightened community engagement reflected in the volume of emails received on the topic. Council members expressed unanimous support for the project, citing the importance of investing in local infrastructure and recognizing the popularity of pickleball. They proposed that the recreation department could offer educational classes to generate additional revenue while addressing community needs.

01:01:06The council also approved a bond ordinance for the improvement of the municipal pool, allocating $225,000 sourced from membership fees. This decision underscored the pool’s significance as a community hub during the summer. Another ordinance involved reallocating $140,000 for necessary repairs to township hall, addressing water intrusion issues.

01:25:28Community initiatives were further highlighted by the designation of the local library as a “book sanctuary.” A library representative expressed appreciation for the council’s support, emphasizing the role of libraries in fostering democracy and supporting diverse communities. The discussion touched on potential incorporation of the designation into an ordinance for permanence, though the initial resolution would be temporary and subject to renewal.

15:56Additionally, the meeting included recognitions and proclamations, such as honoring the Women’s Club of Verona for its community contributions and the 100th anniversary of the Proud Funeral Home. The council acknowledged the Women’s Club’s upcoming “Share Your Light Night” event, aimed at fostering community spirit, and recognized the Proud Funeral Home for its long-standing service and contributions to the community. Representatives from both organizations expressed gratitude for the recognition.

32:28In updates from the Deputy Manager, the council learned about various town projects, including the relining of the main pool and emergency repairs to a trunk line on Derwent Avenue. The progress of the long-term well project was also discussed, with the contractor expected to resume work soon after weather-related delays. The council expressed satisfaction with competitive bids for the primary clarifier pump station improvement, noting the positive financial implications for the town.

The meeting ended with brief discussions on amendments to parking regulations in the town center, intended to improve accessibility, and the consideration of a resolution for the immediate purchase of Department of Public Works trucks. Public comments included a call for outdoor basketball facilities, with council members encouraging residents to express recreational needs for future planning.