The council commenced by addressing Ordinance 22422, which amends chapters 405 and 200 of the borough’s code concerning streets, sidewalks, and development regulations. This ordinance aims to help homeowners and minimize flooding by allowing knee walls made of wood or pavers up to a specified height near sidewalks. It also permits the planting of certain trees and bushes, provided they do not obstruct visibility triangles. This ordinance was the result of extensive collaboration between the planning board, the committee, and the council, incorporating public input. A resident voiced concerns during the public comment portion about the impact of an upcoming construction project on properties with existing pavers in the right-of-way. The council assured that homeowners had been informed about their responsibility to remove any structures that might be affected.

The council also introduced Ordinance 22423, allocating $1,300,000 for the reconstruction of a portion of the boardwalk, with funding authorized through bonds and notes. The ordinance, prepared by bond counsel, aligns with funding awarded to the borough. The decision to proceed with the full amount remains pending.

Another topic was the introduction of Ordinance 22424, which amends regulations regarding beach badge permits and sets a fee for the sale of surplus souvenir beach badges. This ordinance had been discussed in previous meetings and work sessions.

In addition to these legislative actions, the council reviewed various authorizations, including events like the Ocean Running Club’s half marathon and 5K scheduled for October 6, 2024, and two weddings planned for late September. Each event’s authorization was contingent on obtaining necessary permits and certificates of insurance. A discrepancy in one event’s insurance certificate was noted. The council agreed to rectify this issue before proceeding.

Resolution 284, approving payment of claims itemized in the check registry from September 6 to September 19, 2024, was discussed and unanimously approved. Several other resolutions were also addressed, including authorizing financial advisory services for the boardwalk project, awarding a contract for website design, appointing special law enforcement officers, and authorizing shared service agreements with neighboring municipalities. These resolutions were adopted as a consent agenda without objection.

Mayor John A. Peterson Jr. announced the completion of the community center, which had passed all necessary inspections and would open shortly. He expressed gratitude to the individuals involved in the project and mentioned the receipt of a permit for the boardwalk project, which typically takes about six months to obtain.

During the public comment session, a resident expressed gratitude to the mayor for reaching out to the county regarding local concerns but noted a lack of response. The resident also highlighted issues with stone deposits along the shoreline that could be addressed during low tide and voiced frustration over a perceived lack of transparency regarding decisions made about certain properties. The resident claimed that the council had not followed through on commitments to involve the community in decision-making processes concerning local properties, emphasizing a feeling of betrayal.

In the work session preceding the regular meeting, several contentious topics were discussed, particularly concerning property sales and public engagement. A resident expressed frustration about the handling of properties, specifically mentioning Park Central and Desert Palm, and criticized the council for not holding promised public meetings to discuss the community’s desires for these areas. A council member responded by pointing out that while public meetings had occurred regarding Park Central, no viable funding proposals had emerged from residents’ suggestions. They emphasized that no decisions had been made and noted the absence of bids on a property that had been put up for auction twice without any bidders.

The conversation also touched on the absence of public notifications regarding meetings, with a council member highlighting the need for broader communication to ensure all residents can participate in discussions about community properties. This sentiment echoed a call for enhanced transparency and engagement from the council.

The work session also covered recognition by Ocean County Solid Waste Management for Seaside Park achieving a 63% recycling rate in 2023, a proposal for consulting services related to the boardwalk project, and a new website design contract with Revis. Additionally, shared services agreements with BKE Township for the recycling center and Lavallette for a Municipal Court Administrator were discussed. In a lighter moment, the council deliberated on the sale of surplus souvenir beach badges, proposing a sale to residents to declutter storage and generate revenue.

A resident named Mitch sought clarification about the boardwalk project consulting contract, emphasizing the need for more transparency regarding its components and materials. The council acknowledged the importance of public input but did not provide immediate answers.