Ebono’s findings pointed to recurring financial mismanagement, with issues like the borrowing of funds between different accounts, which, while legal, required repayment by the end of the fiscal year. This lack of effective management contributed to the borough’s financial instability. The council discussed the need for robust internal controls to address these discrepancies and ensure future financial integrity. While there was no evidence of fraud or embezzlement, Ebono emphasized the “sloppiness” in financial practices that needed rectification.

Concerns about the borough’s financial practices extended beyond Ebono’s report. A representative voiced issues regarding the borough’s financial records, highlighting vulnerabilities such as unbalanced accounts and lost entries, which exacerbated the borough’s financial woes. The representative called for a reassessment of the borough’s numerous bank accounts and improvements in internal controls to rectify years of “bad habits” and “bad practices.” The council expressed a commitment to streamlining processes and improving financial practices, with a council member expressing relief at the potential for change.

Public comments echoed frustrations over the borough’s financial management. Resident Beth Kepler compared the situation to organized crime and expressed disappointment over the lack of a criminal investigation into the borough’s financial practices. Kepler pressed the council to formally request an investigation from the attorney general’s office. Another resident, Thomas J. Goan, criticized the borough’s handling of Open Public Records Act (OPRA) requests, sharing his experience of receiving heavily redacted documents, which led to a lawsuit settled by the borough covering his legal fees.

The meeting also addressed ongoing affordable housing obligations, with Planner Jennifer Beam providing an overview of the borough’s requirements. The Department of Community Affairs (DCA) set a requirement for 30 new housing units, with a rehabilitation obligation of 64 units. Beam presented a revised proposal for a property on Main Street, including 24 units, with four designated as affordable. Legislative changes now permit municipalities to account for sober living facilities towards their housing obligations, adding 16 credits to the borough’s total.

The council discussed strategies to meet the 64-unit rehabilitation requirement, acknowledging the challenges posed by high property values in coastal communities. A windshield survey was proposed to identify properties in need of rehabilitation assistance, though it was noted that such surveys might not reveal sufficient units due to local real estate dynamics. The council emphasized the need for an administrative agent to manage the rehabilitation program.

Infrastructure improvements were another focus of the meeting, particularly the sewer replacement project on Fifth Avenue. The project, spanning from Main Street to Madison, was initially delayed due to concerns over the sewer lining option. The council opted for a full sewer replacement project, with bids received within the engineer’s estimates. Construction is anticipated to start in late July or early August, with resurfacing planned for September or October. The council aims to extend sewer replacements from Madison to Ocean Avenue, with funding secured through the sewer utility and a Department of Transportation grant.

The meeting further addressed resolutions related to various community projects. These included the award of a contract for the Newark Avenue concession, the appointment of summer seasonal gate guards, and the approval of an annual renewal of an alcoholic beverage license. The council also debated the addition of LED lighting to a single aerator in Fletcher Lake, with environmental concerns raised about potential impacts on wildlife and lake health.

Public comments revealed additional community concerns, such as the allocation procedure for beach storage boxes and the need for improved signage regarding music on the beach. Residents expressed frustration over the borough’s handling of financial and procedural matters, urging the council to address these issues and ensure transparency and accountability.