The issue of privatizing crossing guard services sparked extensive public commentary and debate. Residents and current crossing guards voiced strong opposition, emphasizing the critical role that guards play in ensuring children’s safety. A local resident and crossing guard, Kathy Gainner, highlighted her commitment to the community, detailing her long service and the risks involved due to staffing shortages. Gainner criticized the lack of understanding from those considering privatization, urging council members to witness firsthand the challenges faced by guards in managing traffic and ensuring student safety.

Jada Jackson, another resident, echoed these concerns, praising the dedication of crossing guards and questioning the effectiveness and commitment of a privatized service. Jackson’s remarks reinforced the sentiment that community members valued the personal relationships and safety assurance provided by local guards, asserting that a shift to privatized services could undermine these benefits.

The council acknowledged the public’s concerns, with some members expressing appreciation for the guards’ historical ties and dedication. They committed to working with unions to ensure fair compensation while maintaining current staffing. Discussion also surfaced about potential alternatives to privatization, such as increased police presence or traffic calming measures to protect crossing guards, particularly in high-traffic areas.

In tandem with crossing guard discussions, the council navigated the complexities of the 2025 municipal budget. An $86,100 cut in the police budget raised questions about the council’s priorities, with community members expressing preference for increased support for educational services over recreational spending.

Council members, while approving the budget, reiterated that the reduction pertained to contractual services and assured that police salaries and wages remained unaffected. They emphasized the effort to maintain a “flat budget,” aimed at minimizing tax increases for residents, and noted that the recreation budget increase was modest, primarily intended to enhance community event offerings.

Library funding emerged as another focal point, with residents like Don Shalace from the Friends of the Library questioning the implications of a potential relocation and the associated cost shifts. Concerns about the library’s cleaning budget and historical funding cuts since 2010 were addressed, with explanations that custodial services had been absorbed by the township. The council acknowledged the need for clearer communication and planning regarding the library’s future.

Capital improvements also featured prominently in the meeting, with discussions on various departmental requests amounting to $3 million in proposed expenditures. These included essential updates for municipal operations, such as replacing aging vehicles and equipment for the Department of Public Works and enhancements to recreational facilities like the installation of a new fitness court near JFK.

Public Works highlighted the necessity of these upgrades to maintain service efficiency, citing the need for new snowplows, salt spreaders, and a wood chipper. The recreation department outlined plans to acquire a new pickup truck and portable stage to improve logistical capabilities. Fire and EMS services requested funds for a new fire truck and equipment upgrades, emphasizing the critical nature of these investments for community safety.