The meeting commenced with the ceremonial swearing-in of Police Sergeant Tyler Morrison. This appointment, formalized through resolution 105-25, saw unanimous support from the council. Following the ceremony, Mayor Sandy Henley invited attendees to join the newly appointed sergeant and his family in the lobby.

Attention soon shifted to fiscal matters, with particular focus on the introduction of the 2025 municipal budget. The Mayor described this budget as a “copycat budget,” highlighting consistent spending patterns compared to previous years, driven by increases in pension costs, debt obligations, and other carrying expenses. Despite these challenges, the auditor, Todd Sailor, had approved the budget, deeming it sound.

However, concerns were raised by residents and a council member regarding the communication of budget details and the timing of budget meetings. A resident, Nancy Berkeley Olus, voiced dissatisfaction with the scheduling and advertising of a budget meeting held on July 17th at 3:00 PM, which she felt was insufficiently publicized. She contended that the meeting’s timing was inconvenient for working residents and criticized the council’s transparency efforts. In response, a council member acknowledged the advertising of the meeting but admitted that the timing was not ideal for all. They noted the Chief Financial Officer’s initiative to meet with residents individually, a practice not previously undertaken, as a step toward greater transparency.

Further discussions delved into the specific components of the budget, including a projected tax rate increase of 1.9 cents, raising the rate to 81 cents. The Mayor provided examples to illustrate the tax implications, estimating that homes assessed at $100,000 would see an increase of approximately $1921, while $200,000 assessments would rise by about $3842. Questions about the impact of a planned $1.4 million bond on future interest payments prompted assurances that these obligations would affect future budgets, not the current year’s financial plan. The township’s debt ratio, standing at a conservative 0.52%, was highlighted as well below the maximum allowable threshold.

The Chief Financial Officer discussed the budget’s preparation process, citing a rigorous approach to avoid unnecessary spending and to provide clarity to the public. Council members expressed gratitude for the opportunity to work collaboratively on the budget, acknowledging the challenges of transitioning from previous administrations and the importance of maintaining open communication with residents.

Public comments also touched on the town’s community engagement efforts, with a resident expressing appreciation for the police and fire departments’ involvement in local events. The discourse extended to the recreation committee’s plans, notably the “Buck 2 Day” event scheduled for September 27, 2025, which aims to enhance community spirit through dignitary attendance and new signage.

The meeting concluded with acknowledgment of the negative impact of social media criticism on local governance. A speaker noted that platforms like Facebook often become breeding grounds for unaccountable and inaccurate critique, which could deter potential volunteers and candidates from participating in local government. They called for a shift toward positivity, emphasizing the collaborative efforts of the council and the need for a supportive environment that encourages community involvement.