One notable issue addressed during the meeting was the council’s opposition to Assembly Bill 4816 and Senate Bill 4158. These bills, if enacted, would prohibit municipalities from requiring beach tags for access to the wet sand area of the beach, effectively opening up these spaces to unrestricted public access. The council expressed concerns about the potential financial implications of such legislation, as local towns currently rely on beach fees to fund essential services like lifeguards and maintenance. During discussions, the council emphasized the need for further research and consultation with other coastal towns, highlighting fears that the bills could undermine existing municipal practices and revenue streams. This topic had been previously addressed by neighboring Seaside Heights, and the resolution opposing the bills was circulated to other coastal communities.

In addition to addressing legislative concerns, the council approved several ordinances and resolutions that impact local governance and community development. Ordinance 20254, which amends the borough’s code regarding rental permits, was unanimously approved. This amendment includes a $25 fee increase. Additionally, Ordinance 20255 was adopted to exceed municipal budget appropriation limits and establish a cap bank.

The council also conducted a public hearing on the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) application for ADA access improvements on Ocean Avenue and the boardwalk. This project is essential for compliance with new construction requirements, and following a public hearing with no comments, the grant application was approved unanimously.

Infrastructure was another focal point of the meeting. The council discussed ongoing and upcoming projects, including the completion of the Ocean Avenue water main Phase 3B work and plans for further restoration and paving. An update was provided on the New Jersey Department of Transportation Municipal Aid project, set to begin mid-March, which will involve significant infrastructure enhancements. These projects reflect the council’s ongoing efforts to improve local infrastructure and community facilities.

In terms of community recognition, the council issued two proclamations. The first recognized Johanna McAul for her extensive volunteer work with the Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) of Ocean County. Her contributions to the community, particularly in advocating for children in the foster care system, were commended, with a formal presentation planned at an upcoming CASA volunteer dinner. The second proclamation celebrated March 2025 as the month recognizing senior nutrition programs, specifically highlighting the Meals on Wheels initiative. This program, rooted in federal legislation since 1972, provides crucial nutritional support to seniors in Seaside Park and surrounding areas.

The council also addressed environmental concerns through discussions on a proposed Bayfront project involving living shoreline initiatives. Recent communication from the Army Corps of Engineers and positive feedback from Fish and Wildlife were noted, with a resolution discussed to authorize funds for refining project plans.

Additionally, the council reviewed several resolutions in summary form, with unanimous approval granted for a range of matters, including a collective bargaining agreement with OP IU local 32 of the AFL-CIO, salary increases for part-time Department of Public Works employees, and the appointment of special law enforcement officers for 2025. A resolution also authorized the American Littoral Society to provide professional services for coordinating with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers on the Bayfront restoration project, focusing on submerged aquatic vegetation mitigation.