A highlight of the meeting was the recognition of local heroes, particularly police officers and first responders who were involved in life-saving rescue operations. The mayor praised Class One Officer Luke Cox and Class Two Officer Mason Kinlan for their quick action on September 19, 2024, when they rescued swimmers caught in a rip current at the Second Avenue beach. Using torpedo flotation devices, they kept the swimmers afloat in rough surf until additional rescue personnel arrived. The mayor emphasized their bravery and presented proclamations acknowledging their lifesaving efforts.

Similarly, Officers Dakota Jigo and Brian Urbook were honored for a rescue incident on September 13, 2024, where they saved a swimmer struggling in a rip current. The mayor highlighted their immediate response and risk-taking actions, presenting them with proclamations for their courage. The collaborative efforts of local emergency services, such as the Tri-Boro First Aid Squad and the Seaside Park Volunteer Fire Company, were also acknowledged for their critical roles during these rescues.

The council then moved on to the adoption of Ordinance 22423, allocating $1,300,000 for the reconstruction of a portion of the boardwalk and authorizing the issuance of bonds to finance the project. The mayor noted that this initiative has been in preparation for several years, with bond counsel involved in drafting the ordinance. The council had already received preliminary approval from the Infrastructure Bank for funding. With no public comments forthcoming, the ordinance was unanimously approved.

In addition to these major topics, the council addressed several community concerns. Residents expressed frustration with the current political climate and raised issues such as traffic violations during flooding events on I Street. Suggestions were made for police to monitor traffic more effectively and for implementing sandbagging strategies for flood protection. A resident proposed researching a “flap gate” solution used in Staten Island to control water flow and prevent flooding from storm drains.

Environmental and safety concerns were also discussed, with residents urging the council to consider the risks associated with electric vehicles in flood-prone areas. A suggestion was made to implement a registration system for these vehicles to enhance safety measures. Additionally, the council considered suggestions to improve awareness about the beach safety sirens and the implementation of a year-round beach lightning notification system.

The meeting also touched upon the financial challenges posed by new state mandates, particularly concerning the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection’s proposed rules on increased flood zone height requirements. The council expressed concerns over the urgency of implementing these regulations and agreed on the need for further review. They highlighted the financial burden of state mandates without accompanying funding, which poses challenges for local municipalities.

Furthermore, the council examined a proposal from East Coast Flag and Flag Pole Inc. for replacing beach flag poles at a cost of $29,250. Discussions included the potential aesthetics and durability of different materials, with concerns about fiberglass poles’ splintering being a factor in the decision-making process.