The meeting’s most issue centered on the ongoing challenges of oil remediation and a sewer leak affecting Deal Lake. Participants raised concerns about the status of oil remediation efforts, questioning whether a remediation copy had been selected and if the planning board had been informed of the issues. An acknowledgment was made of a file at the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) concerning the site, which had undergone some cleanup actions. However, details about the extent of oil contamination in the lake remained unclear. Despite multiple cleanups at the site, oil had leaked into the lake, with no assessments conducted to determine the impact on the water body. A licensed site remediation professional (LSRP) is expected to assess the environmental impact and determine necessary sampling for further evaluation. Participants expressed concerns about a perceived lack of urgency from responsible parties regarding the remediation process, with one participant personally feeling the matter had been neglected.

In addition to oil remediation, the meeting highlighted a recent sewer leak in Asbury Park. The leak was identified during a successful cleanup event and was managed rapidly, with the leak stopped within two hours of notification. Specifics surrounding the sewer pipes involved were discussed, noting that at least two stormwater pipes and one sewer pipe had experienced issues. One sewer pipe was in poor condition, and access to a manhole cover was obstructed by concrete from tennis court construction. Participants inquired about the amount of sewage that had entered the lake and how it was managed. The natural dilution process, aided by bacteria breaking down the sewage, was emphasized. Despite dilution not being a preferred pollution solution, it was the only viable option available. The logistical challenges faced during the cleanup, including closing a town road, were noted, with participants stressing that despite the severity of the leak, the sewage volume was manageable.

The meeting proceeded to address administrative matters, including the appointment of a commission attorney. Only one proposal had been received for the role, leading to a brief debate about the selection process. A commissioner expressed concern about not having a closed session to review credentials, as initially assured if more than one proposal had been received. However, with only one candidate, Paul Nicola Esquire, a formal review was deemed unnecessary. The resolution to appoint Nicola for the year at a cost not exceeding $3,000 was moved, seconded, and approved by members present.

The commission also discussed a grant related to environmental work, which had faced complications. Issues with the submission process required substantial revisions and resubmissions, resulting in a slight decrease in the grant percentage. However, the paperwork was ultimately approved, allowing further action. The commission authorized moving forward with the grant process, expecting submission for review shortly.

Further discussions included an herbicide treatment proposal, with only one bid received, mirroring the previous year’s contract. The cost was approximately $6,000 for treating select Deal Lake areas. The resolution to award the contract passed unanimously, and a participant was tasked with obtaining necessary permits, noting improved efficiency in the online process.

Old business topics included concerns about the ongoing geese program and a recent inspection of nests. Updates on the Osprey program were mentioned, with discussions on nest locations and treatment plans. There was a formal request from the owner of a JCPL building to remove an Osprey nest, approached with caution to avoid disrupting local wildlife.

The conversation shifted to broader initiatives, including potential collaboration with planning board officers regarding a property owner’s guide on the city’s website. The aim was to ensure residents received proper information about lakefront property regulations. Ideas on better informing prospective builders and property owners about necessary permits and procedures for construction and maintenance near the lake were discussed.

Concerns about a proposed development project on Memorial Drive with historical environmental issues, particularly oil contamination near the lake, were voiced. The need for the developer to address remediation efforts and questions about who would manage the oil contamination were highlighted, pointing to the complexities surrounding environmental enforcement and remediation responsibilities.