A major focus of the meeting was the DEP’s proposed regulations that derive from Executive Order 100, targeting climate change mitigation and sea level rise adaptation through updates to existing rules like the Coastal Zone Management and the Flood Hazard Area Control Act. The regulations introduce guidelines for areas projected to be underwater by 2100, including new development permits and impact assessments. The board debated the feasibility and financial burden of the rules, which would demand substantial elevation changes for new developments in the inundation risk zones.

Commissioners raised alarms over the regulations’ impact on property values, tax bases, and the broader economy, fearing that the mandated flood risk acknowledgments on property deeds could deter investment. The rules would affect approximately 59,000 acres in Atlantic County, with significant consequences for communities along the Barnegat Bay and key infrastructure. A particular point of contention was the mandate that multi-residential units and critical buildings have elevated access roads, a requirement seen as financially onerous given the county’s flood dynamics.

During the discussions, skepticism was voiced regarding the assumptions behind the DEP’s approach, with concerns about the reliance on current technology and projections for the year 2100. This skepticism was echoed by participants who critiqued the process by which the regulations were crafted, noting a lack of public discourse and stakeholder input. The board discussed the economic ramifications for vital industries, such as tourism and commercial fishing, warning that the rules could hinder redevelopment efforts and strain municipal resources.

A debate emerged over whether to adopt a stronger stance against the regulations. Some commissioners argued for a resolution that would not just request a pause but outright reject the proposed changes. They called for a collaborative strategy involving local entities to address climate threats while considering economic impacts. This sentiment resonated with representatives from coastal communities who lamented their exclusion from initial stakeholder discussions.

The board ultimately moved to amend a resolution to formally reject the DEP’s regulations and align with a call for a review and collaboration.

In addition to the DEP regulations, the meeting addressed several other resolutions and issues. The board reviewed and passed a series of resolutions concerning grants, contracts, and service agreements without debate, maintaining a methodical approach to governance. Among these were federal aid agreements for road resurfacing, grants for election activities, and a contract for electricity procurement.

The board also touched on FEMA’s impending updates to flood mapping, emphasizing the need for thorough analysis and local input before implementation. A representative from Rella Associates voiced frustration over the lack of integration of local concerns into the proposed regulations, highlighting ongoing efforts to engage state legislators in the dialogue.