The proposed amendment to the zoning ordinance to increase the lot size requirement for duplexes from 6,000 square feet to 10,000 square feet took center stage. This change aims to address the trend of developers dividing lots near the threshold size to create two single-family homes, an action that has raised concerns about overcrowding. In addition to zoning updates, the council discussed a new ordinance to control dust, trash, and plastic at construction sites, which would require contractors to use vacuums when cutting or drilling plastic materials and enforce daily cleanup to prevent microplastic dispersion.

The meeting also delved into ordinance 2024 d2c, which amends chapter 111 concerning hotel and motel bed and breakfast room occupancy tax. The ordinance targets transient accommodations conveyed by transient space marketplaces, addressing whether VRLBI is covered under this definition and confirming that it is not, as it does not charge a fee like VBO or Airbnb.

Furthermore, the council discussed ordinance 2024-25, which authorizes improvements to the Beach Haven Water Utility. The necessity of these improvements was underscored by citing the age of the water reservoir and the importance of maintaining it. The public raised concerns about potential downtime during the water infrastructure project, to which the council assured coordination with Long Beach Township to minimize disruptions.

During public comments, a resident commended the council for seeking additional revenue but raised concerns about the low beach badge fees in Beach Haven compared to other towns on the island. Additional public concerns included the effectiveness of a 10:00 PM curfew for teenagers, the use of temporary electric poles to minimize construction noise, and the potential impact of underground sprinklers on the fire department’s parking during storms.

The council also discussed resolution 163, authorizing the advertisement for bids for the 2024 Veterans Park sod installation project. Assurances were given that community events such as flea markets and craft shows would continue in the park, with the council expressing excitement about enhancing the park’s aesthetic with high-quality sod while maintaining its event schedule.

A significant resolution, number 160-220, which opposed the industrial offshore wind project, was removed from the agenda for further discussion, highlighting the contentious nature of the development of wind turbines off the coast. The council engaged in dialogue with community members, addressing concerns and providing clarifications on the proposed ordinances and resolutions.