38:46A primary focus of the meeting was the fire department’s urgent need for new equipment and vehicles. The department representative highlighted the necessity of replacing outdated vehicles, which are currently “used police cars,” with a new vehicle designed specifically for fire investigations. This new vehicle is projected to serve the department for at least 20 years, unlike the current fleet that frequently requires repairs. The council considered a phased budgetary approach to acquire the vehicle and related technology, such as mobile radios and in-car computers, emphasizing the department’s operational effectiveness.

In addition to vehicle needs, the fire department outlined a budget of $50,000 for personal protective equipment (PPE) and essential fire tools. With federal requirements for gear changing and the existing equipment aging, the department stressed the importance of maintaining safety standards for new recruits. The department also plans to implement a new computer software system to streamline operations and improve coordination with police dispatch.

The council’s discussion extended to the necessity of updating the radio equipment, with the current system established in 2017 now showing signs of aging. The representative suggested a comprehensive needs assessment for the entire radio system to ensure strategic investments across departments, including police, fire, rescue, and public works. The fire department’s recent grant from FEMA, amounting to nearly $40,000, was also noted. This grant was allocated for essential items like turnout gear and a washer for cleaning equipment, signaling the importance of securing further grants to address ongoing capital needs.

2:25:23Alongside fire department discussions, the council addressed the need for enhanced business support in downtown Verona. A council member expressed concerns over the diminished function of business outreach, emphasizing the importance of maintaining effective marketing and outreach programs to minimize retail vacancies. The council highlighted the necessity for administrative operations to have responsibility for business engagement.

The mayor reported positive engagement with new businesses, partially due to revitalized efforts by the Chamber of Commerce. The Chamber’s initiatives, including a successful Restaurant Week with over 16 participating food establishments, were commended for boosting local business visibility and community engagement. The council also noted the Chamber’s increased membership and organized events, which have positively impacted the local economic landscape.

19:42In addition to these primary discussions, the council reviewed updates on various ongoing projects and budget allocations across multiple departments. The construction project on Fairview Avenue received Green Acres approval for an exemption application, with activation expected within the month and completion anticipated next year. The Everett Field project is progressing, with design drawings reported to be 70% complete and a presentation targeted for later this spring.

The council also discussed the pickleball and tennis courts project, which commenced as contractors took advantage of warm weather to begin demolition. This project, with a 90-day contract duration, is expected to complete by late May. Additionally, the council reviewed final reports for the local government energy audit, with a presentation scheduled for the April 7th meeting.

1:08:31Budget discussions covered various departmental needs, including the police department’s staffing levels and overtime costs, which have risen due to mandatory training requirements. The council considered the potential for cross-training officers to assist in zoning enforcement, addressing personnel shortages and quality-of-life issues.

1:28:47The meeting also highlighted community and infrastructure needs, such as the installation of security cameras, trenching for electrical updates at the Verona Community Center, and the need for sidewalk replacements and catch basin repairs. The council emphasized the importance of maintaining the town’s infrastructure and ensuring efficient service delivery while addressing immediate community needs.

2:25:23In closing, the council approved an ordinance on first reading concerning the fixed salary and compensation of the Deputy Mayor, with a public hearing scheduled for March 17. The meeting concluded with an acknowledgment of the Girl Scouts’ contributions to the community and the approval of a consent agenda, which included several resolutions and a grant application related to a food composting pilot program.