A notable portion of the meeting was dedicated to deliberations on an amendment to the ordinance concerning the placement of backup electric generators within side yard setbacks. This amendment emerged from recommendations by the building department and planning board. The council unanimously approved a motion to advance the resolution. The final reading and adoption of another ordinance aimed at increasing application and review fee escrow deposits followed. The council stated that existing fees were among the lowest in the region, necessitating an update to align them more closely with the services rendered. During the public hearing, no comments were made, and the motion was approved.

Another item on the agenda was the introduction of a new ordinance regarding permits required for the use of beach rates. This ordinance was described as a clean-up of rates to match those established in the previous year’s beach operations. The council approved the first reading through a motion and roll call vote. The amendments to ordinance 20251 were discussed as well, which postponed a previously advertised public hearing to facilitate final adoption at the February 20th meeting. These amendments included new definitions for backup generators to align with zoning requirements.

Public inquiries further enriched the session with a series of questions and concerns from residents. A resident expressed concern about the implications of the generator setback ordinance, particularly regarding the potential placement of generators next to their property. Another resident sought clarification on the “spatial data logic” resolution, a software used by the code and construction office to monitor permits and inspections, which is accessible to the public via the town’s website, thereby enhancing transparency.

Community engagement was also a highlight with discussions on several upcoming events. The council announced the rescheduling of a fundraising event to benefit the Charbar First Aid, Seaside Park Volunteer Fire Department, and Seaside Heights Fire Department, now set for March 29th. They encouraged community participation, noting the event’s history of supporting volunteer services. Additionally, the Clean Ocean Action organization’s 40th anniversary Beach Sweeps along the New Jersey coast was announced, with the first sweep scheduled for April 12th. A lunchtime cookout fundraiser planned for the same day was mentioned.

The meeting also highlighted environmental concerns and infrastructure projects, such as the proposed acquisition of municipal stormwater maintenance equipment and improvements to local drainage systems. The council discussed a proposal from Remington & Vernick Engineers for the New Jersey I Bank Clean Water State Revolving Fund application, aimed at acquiring a vacuum truck for cleaning storm drains and street sweeping.

Residents raised additional concerns involving local infrastructure and environmental issues. One resident inquired about “well 11” in Park Central, while another sought clarification on Seaside Park’s involvement in beach replenishment efforts, which was confirmed to be limited to a small section at Funtown Beach. Concerns about a pile of dredge spoils at the marina were raised.

The council also addressed inquiries about the potential acquisition of a closed school building, with discussions emphasizing the need for collaboration to fund necessary repairs. Concerns about the maintenance and ownership of a proposed vacuum truck for stormwater management were raised, with residents emphasizing the importance of investing in quality equipment and ensuring proper storage to prolong its lifespan.

The meeting concluded with discussions about a lightning detection system, following suggestions for extending its operational hours and ensuring adequate training for beach patrol staff. Public comments included concerns over the system’s reliance on lifeguards and the need for comprehensive procedures not dependent on their presence.