One notable issue at the meeting was the petition submitted by residents of the Villas of Lake Como, which brought to light the persistent noise disturbances from Salty’s Beach Bar. The residents described the noise as detrimental to their quality of life and requested the enforcement of noise ordinance 315, soundproofing measures, and a reliable communication channel with the establishment. A resident from across the street labeled the bar “bad neighbors” and highlighted a two-year-long unresolved noise issue.

In response to these concerns, a representative for Salty’s Beach Bar admitted the challenges in managing noise levels, especially with patrons coming and going. The representative proposed utilizing certified state noise officers to conduct regular noise assessments. The council deliberated on the issue and expressed their intention to liaise with the police department to ensure noise restrictions are enforced and to facilitate communication between residents and the bar management.

The council’s approval of Resolution 2024-11 followed the discussion. Additionally, the council reviewed and approved Resolution 2024-12, which pertained to the license conditions of an unnamed establishment. The police chief reported minimal noise complaints related to this establishment.

Another focal point of the meeting was the ongoing improvements to Burman Park. The council detailed various phases of the project, which include the installation of pickleball courts, the expansion of the soccer field, and the renovation of the baseball field. Plans for additional sidewalks, a rehabilitated roof for The Snack Shack, and a higher fence with landscaping to serve as a buffer between the park and nearby residences were also discussed. With the park already boasting new playgrounds and walking paths, the council aimed to complete the project by August or fall 2025, anticipating that the enhancements would foster community cohesion.

The council mentioned a financial boost for local recreation and charity, spotlighting the Jersey Shore Running Club’s generous donation of $1,000 to Lake Como Recreation and the Giving Tree organization. The Belmar Historical Society’s letter congratulating Lake Como on its 100th anniversary was acknowledged, adding a celebratory note to the proceedings. Additionally, the interim borough clerk was congratulated on her anticipated appointment as the full-time borough clerk, and the upcoming Mayor’s Bash on July 18th was mentioned as an effort to raise funds for Burman Park.

Addressing public safety concerns, the council responded to a resident’s complaint about the lack of police patrols on 18th Avenue, where a car reportedly remained unchecked for over six hours. The police chief cited limited manpower and a nationwide decline in law enforcement personnel as factors affecting patrol frequencies. The resident suggested that the timing of ticket issuance may contribute to police backlogs, which was acknowledged by the council and the police chief as part of a broader problem, with uncertainties regarding immediate solutions.

The council also engaged in a discussion on the increase in employment interest for law enforcement positions, especially among young people since the pandemic. The availability of tow trucks for ticketed cars and the hiring of special police officers for the summer season were additional topics of concern. Representatives from local establishments, including Joe Surfshack liquor license, La Sierra Restaurant, Weinstein Liquors, and Discount Wine and Liquors, addressed litter pickup, noise complaints, and idling vehicles, with a commitment from Discount Wine and Liquors to consider signage to discourage idling.