Cape May City Council Deliberates Club Liquor License and Infrastructure Projects
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Meeting Type:
City Council
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Meeting Date:
03/19/2024
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Recording Published:
03/19/2024
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Duration:
143 Minutes
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State:
New Jersey
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County:
Cape May County
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Towns:
Cape May
- Meeting Overview:
During the latest Cape May City Council meeting, the most discussion centered around the liquor license application of the K May Paddle Club. The application sparked a debate on the club’s hours of operation and the safety regulations, particularly concerning the outdoor alcohol service and potential noise disturbances. The general manager of the club clarified that the operation hours are from 10:30 am to 8 pm, with alcohol service starting at noon. The club’s contributions to the community and compliance with existing outdoor music conditions and noise ordinances were also highlighted. Additionally, the meeting addressed the fire safety considerations due to the club’s ability to host a large number of guests.
In terms of infrastructure, the council reviewed updates on several construction projects, including the new library, which is nearing completion with the installation of flooring and staining of hardwood floors. The council aims to have the library open before the summer season and is working to ensure the budget remains within the allocated amount. The discussion also touched on the grant application to the USDA for sewer infrastructure improvements in areas with lead water pipes and the approval of a resolution for the grant application due to the tight submission deadline.
The city’s budget presentation was another focal point, proposing a 0% tax increase for the fifth consecutive year while highlighting plans to hire additional personnel and maintain lean operating expenses. The council emphasized its robust financial position, mentioning capital projects such as the new police station, seawall expansion, and desalinization plant. The meeting also underscored the city’s success in exceeding state requirements for lead-based water service line removal.
Public concerns were addressed, including flooding issues in a local neighborhood and a proposed cannabis-infused dinner party, which raised questions about the legality under the city’s marijuana consumption ordinance. A resident pointed out potential health risks and the combined effects of alcohol and marijuana use at the event, urging the council to enforce regulations.
Additionally, the meeting included discussions on a resolution authorizing USDA water and waste grant funding for sanitary sewer projects, the selection process for a parking management systems vendor, and the planning of final paving on Beach Avenue. The council also introduced an ordinance amending fees for tree removal applications and considered the adoption of an ordinance amending city code sections.
Residents brought forth various issues, such as the potential purchase of a property on Elmyra for additional parking, concerns about the outdoor seating ordinance, and a request for transparency in the use of state funding for the boardwalk. The council provided reassurances and noted the importance of community input in planning processes.
The meeting concluded with no further action taken on the shared services agreement with Cape May Point for court services and the Park Mobile and Park Services contract. The council also recognized the contributions of the Historic Preservation Commission and the Center for Community Arts with an acknowledgment of awards received by these organizations. The mayor declared March 19th, 2024, as the mayor’s Monarch pledge day in support of Monarch butterfly conservation.
Zachary Mullock
City Council Officials:
Shaine P. Meier, Lorraine Baldwin, Michael Yeager, Maureen K. McDade
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Meeting Type:
City Council
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Meeting Date:
03/19/2024
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Recording Published:
03/19/2024
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Duration:
143 Minutes
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Notability Score:
Routine
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State:
New Jersey
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County:
Cape May County
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Towns:
Cape May
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