A substantial part of the meeting focused on the regulation of beach canopies, a subject that generated discussion among council members and the public. The debate revolved around the management of canopies, which some residents argued obstruct views and present safety concerns. A council member suggested a potential solution involving a metal post to delineate where canopies and tents should not extend beyond, ideally set behind existing garbage cans to maintain order on the beach. This proposal aims to balance the need for shade and safety without cluttering the beachfront with permanent signage, which could require ongoing maintenance and affect aesthetics.

The discussion also included public comments defending the use of small canopies. One resident argued that small canopies are less obstructive than multiple umbrellas and provide necessary shade for children. The resident emphasized that canopies pose fewer risks on breezy days compared to umbrellas, which can become airborne. The council acknowledged these points and agreed to further assess the situation after the beach season, considering the feasibility of allowing canopies without imposing restrictive measures.

Another topic was the first reading of an ordinance amending Chapter 405 to facilitate flood control measures, particularly concerning knee walls. This ordinance emerged from concerns raised by homeowners, especially along the Bayfront, who aim to mitigate flooding and wave action by extending knee walls to the sidewalk. The council discussed varying property line distances and the need for consistency across different lots. The proposed ordinance would permit homeowners to construct knee walls as a flood control mechanism, while keeping fences within property lines.

The council’s discussion highlighted the necessity of addressing flooding issues, with recent talks among local mayors reflecting apprehension about state regulations that could mandate raising home elevations by an additional five feet. This proposal has faced criticism, particularly from barrier island residents, who believe it could lead to increased non-conformity with flood insurance regulations and discourage coastal residency. The council agreed on the importance of aligning the knee wall ordinance with existing zoning regulations, including a site triangle ordinance that ensures visibility at intersections. The need to explicitly include materials like landscape timbers in the ordinance was also noted.

The council also passed two ordinances during the meeting. The first, Ordinance 22421, amends Section of the borough code to remove parking time restrictions on Second Avenue, following a prior decision to make it a one-way street. The second, Ordinance 22422, amends Chapter 405 regarding streets and sidewalks to facilitate cleanup related to “knee walls” and includes clarifications to allow landscaping timbers. Both ordinances were approved unanimously.

In addition to these legislative actions, the council authorized two events: a block party on August 29, 2024, and a wedding ceremony on October 19, 2024. The wedding approval was contingent on the applicant obtaining a county permit, with discussions emphasizing the need for smooth management of beach access during the event to avoid disruptions.

The council also reviewed and approved payments of claims for the period from August 2 to August 15, 2024. Several resolutions were summarized, including awarding a contract for utility equipment, accepting a resignation from the building department, authorizing the sale of surplus property, and appointing seasonal employees. A notable resolution was a change order for the Decatur Avenue Water Tower Rehabilitation, which clarified a $10,600 decrease in the final amount.

During the public comment portion, residents raised various issues. Char Surley from 700 North Bay Avenue inquired about beach badge sales, seeking comparative figures to other towns. Another resident, Alan from 145 Street, expressed concerns about bicycle ordinances on the boardwalk and motorized vehicles, noting confusion about existing regulations and the need for clearer communication and signage.