One of the most notable moments of the meeting was the recognition of Joseph S. Rizzello Sr. for his 50 years of service to the Belmar Fire Department. Rizzello’s journey with the fire department began in 1975 with Goodwill H Company, where he served in numerous leadership roles, including Captain and President. In 1988, he transferred to the Hook and Ladder Fire Company and continued to serve as Captain and Department Chief on multiple occasions. His leadership during the challenging period of the 2020 pandemic was particularly highlighted. The council expressed deep gratitude for his contributions, and the proclamation was met with applause from those in attendance.

In other personnel news, the departure of John Walsh from his borough position was announced. Walsh’s tenure was marked by his efforts to revitalize the borough’s events calendar, notably relocating the seafood festival back to Silver Lake and enhancing the San Gennaro festival. The mayor praised Walsh as a “brilliant, smart, creative young man with a bright future ahead of him,” underscoring the positive impact of his work on the community.

The meeting also covered various community initiatives. The Harbor Commission’s recommendation to adjust fuel rates to finance a new fuel dock was discussed, with a scheduled meeting set to finalize the details. This proposal is expected to be reviewed by the council in an upcoming workshop session. Additionally, the council explored strategies to inform local businesses about available grants.

Councilwoman Donovan provided an update on the Environmental Commission’s efforts to secure funding for Silver Lake, announcing that the borough had received $110,000 from Sustainable Jersey for a Community Energy Plan. She also congratulated Roy Childers for his new role as Harbor Commission chair and mentioned an upcoming meeting to review marina finances.

In legal matters, the ongoing Verizon case was highlighted, with the case currently in the discovery phase. Councilwoman Kenny noted the involvement of Spring Lake residents in related litigation and mentioned awaiting Verizon’s next steps. She also announced that sign-ups for the Junior Guards program would begin on February 1, emphasizing the program’s benefits for children.

The council addressed outreach efforts to immigrant communities by distributing “Know Your Rights” flyers in English and Spanish. These resources are designed to educate individuals on their rights when interacting with law enforcement and immigration officials.

The council also tackled scheduling issues for their upcoming meetings. With three council members unable to attend the February 11 meeting, it was decided to postpone public hearings on three ordinances until the next meeting later in February.

During the public comment segment, community members raised several issues, including the status of handicap curbs at a local intersection and the need for transparency regarding the borough’s grant achievements.

In procedural developments, the council adopted resolutions related to housing obligations under a recent Fair Housing Act amendment signed by Governor Murphy. This amendment requires municipalities to address housing obligations by January 31, 2025, with the Department of Community Affairs providing estimates for these obligations, which the council found acceptable.

Three new ordinances were introduced during the meeting. The first ordinance proposed amendments to salary schedules, the second aimed to add a new chapter to the municipal code regarding housing, and the third focused on amendments within the Department of Public Safety related to the fire department. Each ordinance was unanimously approved for a first reading and introduction.