Discussions during the meeting highlighted the success of a health initiative that conducted over 3,500 screenings, uncovering critical health issues among many participants. These screenings led to emergency hospitalizations for various conditions, including abnormal blood glucose levels. The Mayor and Chief of Staff received commendations for their support in this initiative, which council members noted has positively impacted numerous lives. One council member emphasized the importance of the health department, stating, “I don’t think they really utilize the health department like they should,” recognizing the department’s vital role in the community.

The meeting also covered the Department of Health’s budget, particularly noting an almost doubled request for drugs and pharmaceuticals. This increase was attributed to the transition out of federal grant funding for free vaccines, as the township’s nursing division shifts back to non-COVID programs and vaccinations for children. Another discussion point was the rise in professional services costs for animal control due to increased veterinary expenses and shared service agreements with nearby towns. Council members showed strong interest in ensuring adequate funding for these services.

Investment in drug addiction services was another key focus, with a notable increase in consulting fees for the Nolan Center. Efforts to address behavioral health and drug addiction issues collaboratively were discussed, with council members expressing their support for this initiative. Additionally, the Municipal Alliance program was highlighted for its Strengthening Families initiative, receiving positive feedback from participants. A council member who attended a graduation for families involved in the program remarked, “It was amazing… it really helped them communicate with their children on different levels.”

Senior services and their associated budget were also addressed, particularly the continuous salary reimbursement for counseling and case management provided by social workers. The council emphasized the importance of maintaining these services to support the community’s seniors adequately.

The Police Department’s budget hearing included discussions on body and incar camera equipment, signage expenditures, and vehicle leases. A council member raised a question about a budget line for body camera equipment that showed no requests for 2025. The director clarified that a clerical error resulted in misallocated funds, which were mistakenly placed under a line for copying equipment. The budget for signage was increased for 2025, as the police department now manages sign procurement previously handled by the municipal engineer. This initiative is important for updating municipal lots and roadways needing new signage.

Regarding Emergency Medical Services (EMS), there was a focus on enhancing EMS capabilities due to inconsistent coverage from local first aid squads. The EMS director detailed the necessity for the police department to become a licensed EMS provider. The EMS manager discussed response times and the importance of meeting established guidelines, with budget specifics covering outside services for billing and insurance premiums.

The Department of Public Works discussed a significant reduction in salaries, attributed to the transfer of positions from the engineering department to the office of stability. Council members expressed concerns about maintaining sanitary sewer systems, emphasizing preventive maintenance and spot repairs. The snow removal budget was also examined, distinguishing between regular and emergency removal, which requires a governor’s declaration.

In the Information Systems budget, an increase in the electrical equipment budget was necessary for wiring new temporary air conditioning units in the data center and the upcoming UPS replacement. A significant rise in maintenance contracts was due to a change in licensing models, now requiring maintenance contracts instead of software licenses. The transition to a new Mitel telephone system was discussed, replacing older lines with a more cost-effective and easier-to-maintain solution.

The council also reviewed the Planning and Development budget, noting increases in salaries due to the addition of inspectors for zoning and property maintenance. This staffing change responds to the growing number of required housing inspections. Additionally, the budget for professional services related to the planning board saw an increase, anticipating ongoing legal actions.