The meeting unfolded with discussions centered around the application for the Community Development Block Grant, which aims to acquire an additional cabota UTV for beach patron transportation and to continue ADA curb cuts throughout the town. The proposal was met with support from the public, referencing a Parks and Recreation survey that prioritized improved beach access.

Parks and Recreation committee member Sally Poete presented a comprehensive 62-page report, summarizing eight months of work, including a community survey with 1,942 respondents and benchmarking meetings with other towns. The committee’s multi-year recommendations were categorized into seven areas: beach access, trees and shade, parks improvements, tennis and pickleball opportunities, bay improvements, bicycle safety, and events and marketing.

Beach access improvements were highly prioritized. The council proposed new handrails on the west side of Dune entrances and piloted Mobi mats on steep paths at five beach entrances to ease access, especially for seniors and people with disabilities. The expansion of the Gator program was discussed, including the increase of pickup points and the width of beach entrances. The introduction of drones for lifeguard beach monitoring was proposed, with plans to involve the police department for implementation by summer.

The council also addressed the need for more shade in town, particularly through new trees and landscaping. A draft design for Veterans Park was presented, proposing new trees, shrubbery, flowers, picnic tables, and benches. Discussions focused on suitable vegetation types, climate considerations, and potential changes to the park’s layout, including extending the Amber Street driveway and improving existing beds.

Other topics included the revamping of the flea market and craft show, exploring alternative vendor arrangements and parking logistics, and funding sources for park improvements, such as grants and community fundraising. Park upgrades were planned, including basketball court renovations, shade additions, bicycle racks, watering stations, and a portable volleyball system. The council also discussed replacing playground equipment and applying for a grant for an all-inclusive playground in 2025.

The financial strategy for 2024 included a request for an additional budget allocation of $199,000 to support various initiatives. The breakdown of costs covered Mobi mats, beach railings, park irrigation, shade and table additions, basketball court enhancements, bike racks, bay improvements, tennis and pickleball upgrades, and hiring a recreation and events coordinator. The council proposed adjusting seasonal beach badge fees to increase revenue by $100,000 annually.

Discussions also included fee adjustments for tennis, pickleball, and beach badge fees to balance resident and visitor contributions and manage overcrowding at recreational facilities. The committee emphasized the importance of parks, beaches, and bay areas in community-building, economic growth, and promoting a healthy lifestyle.

The council recognized Mary Claire Bunts for passing the registered Municipal Clerk’s exam. Treasurer Sherie Bowler presented the financial report, and the council approved the first readings of three ordinances: amending zoning yard width exceptions, prohibiting construction and landscaping on select holidays, and necessitating architectural advisory committee review in certain instances.

Subsequent discussions addressed membership approval for the first Junior member of the Beach Haven volunteer fire company, contract awards for various projects, opposition to a bill overhauling the Fair Housing Act, police participation in a national safety program, and the adoption of advisory business district design standards.

Public comments included gratitude from Fire Chief Adam Elder for the council’s recruitment and retention support and a suggestion to expand the noise ordinance holiday list, which the council considered for future action.