The proposal for a $51 million Emergency Services building sparked debate among council members and residents alike. One resident, Anna Fusaro, criticized the project, arguing that the town manager’s claim of a $5 per home tax increase was misleading. Fusaro contended that the actual increase would be closer to $500 in the first year, with potential cost overruns pushing the total project cost beyond $60 million. She expressed concern that such a financial commitment would detract from funding for other community needs, including youth sports and road repairs. Fusaro’s remarks highlighted the community’s apprehension about the project’s scale and financial impact.

Another resident, Tom Manan, questioned the necessity of the building’s design, which includes 17 individual bathrooms, three kitchens, and seven conference rooms. Manan proposed a more cost-effective design, emphasizing that current emergency services do not require the proposed number of vehicles or facilities. He also pointed out potential safety issues arising from the building’s layout and the maintenance requirements for the parking lot designated for emergency vehicles. Manan estimated the annual maintenance costs for the facility to be around $200,000, a figure not adequately addressed in the project’s budget discussions.

The council members echoed residents’ concerns. Emphasizing the importance of distinguishing between essential needs and wants in the building’s design, one council member suggested that the structure could be designed for future expansion to accommodate population increases. The council’s deliberations revealed a desire to avoid reaching a point where significant investments compel them to proceed with the project regardless of its feasibility.

In addition to the emergency services project, the council discussed the transition from artificial turf to natural grass at Everett Field. The conversation was informed by a detailed presentation from students of Montclair State University’s sustainability program, who highlighted the environmental and health concerns associated with artificial turf. The analysis revealed that natural grass, despite requiring more water, has a lower overall environmental impact and reduced health risks from chemical exposure compared to artificial turf. The presentation emphasized the need for sustainable practices and recommended using Kentucky Blue Grass and perennial rye grass, managed by an organic land manager, to ensure the field’s health and playability.

The council also addressed the community’s involvement in the Everett Field project, acknowledging the financial support received, including $810,000 in grant funding and pledges from local organizations like the Verona Baseball and Softball League (VBSL). Concerns were raised about the feasibility of VBSL raising the necessary funds for ADA-compliant restrooms and a snack bar, with questions about contingency plans if the organization fell short of its fundraising goals.

Public comments further highlighted the need for improvements at Everett Field, particularly regarding the inadequate restroom facilities and the safety of the playing surface. One resident recounted an embarrassing experience with the current bathroom, advocating for a comprehensive revamp of the field. The discussion extended to the broader context of the town’s financial management, with a council member acknowledging flaws in the previous presentation of tax estimates and calling for a reformulated analysis to account for potential additional debt from other capital projects.

The council also touched on various local developments, particularly the implications of developments in West Orange on Verona’s sewer system and traffic patterns. A council member emphasized the importance of clarifying sewer treatment implications and maintaining caution in making assumptions about connections to Verona’s sewer system.

Affordable housing was another significant topic, with council members recognizing the ongoing concerns and encouraging resident engagement as the process for affordable housing development begins. The cyclical nature of the housing process and the importance of resident input were emphasized.