The proposed recycling ordinance, Ordinance 546-2213, seeks to limit city recycling collection and requires businesses to arrange private collection for amounts exceeding set limits. During the public hearing, Tony Monusco from Cape Resorts expressed concerns that the ordinance could impose unreasonable burdens on businesses that contribute to the city’s revenue through taxes and fees. He argued that these additional costs could ultimately be passed on to consumers. Monusco contended that the city should maintain essential services, especially considering the financial contributions businesses like Cape Resorts make to the city.

Echoing Monusco’s sentiments, Tom Oara from Uncle Bill’s Pancake House highlighted the potential for increased traffic and logistical challenges, particularly for businesses that generate minimal recyclables. He stated that requiring businesses to hire additional services for recycling could be impractical and unnecessary for those already managing their waste responsibly.

Dennis Crowley, representing the Municipal Taxation and Revenue Committee, provided a different perspective, noting that the current recycling ordinance mainly serves residential properties. He emphasized that businesses should not expect taxpayers to subsidize the costs of their increased waste generation. Crowley proposed a system where the city provides a single 96-gallon container for collection once a week for both residential and commercial properties, with any excess requiring separate contracts.

The debate exposed a significant divide over the ordinance, with some attendees advocating for fairness and shared responsibility in recycling efforts. The proposal to table the discussion for two weeks received unanimous approval, allowing for further deliberation and input from business owners.

In tandem with the recycling ordinance debate, the council also discussed the Cape Island Safe Streets and Roads action plan. This plan, aligned with a broader Cape May County local road safety initiative, focuses on non-infrastructure strategies to enhance road safety. A key component of the plan is the introduction of education about low-speed vehicles, an area identified as needing attention due to observed increases in their use. The action plan aims to establish a formal approach to LSV education, with council members expressing support for its critical role in future safety efforts.

The meeting also addressed the allocation of funds from previously approved bond ordinances to existing projects without creating new ones. Discussions highlighted the need for transparency and clarity in financial management, particularly in relation to the Bank Street retaining wall project. Concerns were raised about the lack of detailed cost estimates and the potential implications of reallocating funds without clear project specifications. The council acknowledged the importance of thorough financial vetting before proceeding with allocations, emphasizing the need for detailed reporting on project costs.

The council further touched on public safety concerns related to infrastructure, including uneven manholes and the approval of nature trails expanding into the wetlands. The nature trails project, which has been in planning for over a decade, received positive feedback due to its potential to enhance community engagement with outdoor spaces. The council expressed gratitude for the support from the county open space board.

In other matters, the council recognized Judge Lewis J. Bolasco Jr. for his retirement, celebrating his long and distinguished career. The judge was commended for his fairness and dedication to justice, with remarks acknowledging the positive impact he has had on the community and his strong relationship with law enforcement.

The meeting concluded with updates from the city manager, including an increased police presence on the streets and beaches, the ordering of a new ladder truck for the fire department, and the retention of a Class Five rating for the Community Rating System, which offers residents a discount on flood insurance. Additionally, the council discussed the receipt of a grant for the reconstruction of Wiona Avenue and ongoing efforts to integrate affordable housing obligations into the city’s development strategy.