In a recent government meeting, the board discussed several funding allocations for local organizations, including the Arts and Science Council, Matthews Alive, and the Levine Senior Center. The board approved a $32,000 funding recommendation for the Arts and Science Council, despite some dissent regarding the lack of financial audits for nonprofit organizations. Commissioner Tofano expressed concerns about transparency, stating he could not support funding without satisfactory audits, leading to a split vote of 4-2 in favor.

The board also voted to allocate $70,000 to Matthews Alive, a local cultural event, which passed with a similar 4-2 vote, again with Tofano and Mayor Pro Tem Hoover opposing. Additionally, a $5,000 funding request for the Levine Senior Center was approved with a 3-1 vote, as Tofano opposed this allocation as well.

In another agenda item, the board received an update on a deer study initially planned for $4,000. The study's original contractor withdrew due to liability insurance issues, prompting the town manager to explore alternative options. The only viable solution identified was a drone company, Steward Green, which could conduct a comprehensive survey for $25,000. The board noted a decrease in deer-related car crashes this year, with only nine incidents reported so far, representing less than 1% of total crashes in Matthews.

The board is now considering whether to proceed with the drone survey, which would require an additional $21,000 beyond the initial funding set aside for the deer study.