The council’s approval of the amended lightning emergency action plan was a focal point of the meeting. This plan will extend the operational hours of the recently installed lightning detection system, which will now be active from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m., with nighttime alerts provided by strobe lights to minimize disruption to residents. The decision was driven by community feedback, emphasizing the need for increased coverage. The system will feature QR codes on signage to allow easy access to the emergency action plan via smartphones. These changes aim to enhance safety for both residents and visitors, especially along the boardwalk and fishing areas. Public feedback was positive, with one resident commending the council for their well-thought-out solution.

Attention then shifted to the 14th Avenue Shoreline Stabilization Project, which aims to combat erosion where the bulkhead ends. The project proposes the installation of gabion baskets, which are stainless steel containers filled with rocks, designed to mitigate wave action. The council discussed concerns about the health of trees in the construction area, deciding to attempt transplanting one tree and protect root structures during the process. The project’s cost was estimated at $27,500, lower than other bids, which was met with approval from both council members and residents. The work is expected to be completed within four days, ideally during low tide.

The council also addressed various community concerns. Among them was a discussion on municipal spending and salary increases. A resident expressed frustration over the impact of wage increases on taxpayers, noting that some wages had doubled and were pushing residents out of town due to affordability issues. The council clarified that salary figures were based on a collective bargaining agreement, set to expire soon and including small increases.

Public comments further highlighted issues such as the state of a sailboat at the north end of town and encroachment at the Seaside Park Yacht Club parking lot. The sailboat’s owner, reportedly a Seaside Park resident, had been contacted with registration numbers provided to authorities. The yacht club’s encroachment involved vegetation and boat racks extending into wetlands, prompting a recommendation for post-and-rail fencing to clearly define property boundaries.

Concerns about the municipal salary guide were also raised, with questions about the determination of salaries for positions like chief and lieutenant. The council responded that these figures were based on collective bargaining agreements, with small increases expected to stabilize salaries for the next two to three years. There was also a call for more frequent updates from the council and committees, particularly regarding police reports and recreational activities.

Additionally, there was a discussion about the potential sale of Ed Street, with a resident urging the council to reconsider its stance. This sentiment was met with the idea of organizing a petition to reflect community opinion on the matter.

Safety concerns were also addressed, including a raised sewer grate on 14th Avenue. A resident suggested placing caution cones on top until the road could be repaved to prevent vehicle damage. The meeting concluded with a reminder about the return to twice-weekly garbage pickup, urging residents to adhere to proper disposal practices.