The meeting was notably charged with resident Claire Ziza’s concerns about the Stockton Avenue beach area. Ziza highlighted the trend of increased beachgoer activity after 5 PM, when lifeguards are off duty, especially on weekends. Her observations pointed to a spike in after-hours beach attendance, with people accessing the beach without supervision. Ziza shared a troubling incident involving a child and a lifeguard unable to locate the child’s parent promptly. She questioned the lack of a public address system that could assist in managing such situations.

Ziza also raised the issue of current ordinances, questioning why the town could not enforce restrictions on water access post-5 PM, similar to neighboring Seaside Heights. Her remarks prompted a council member to suggest extending lifeguard hours, although there were concerns about over-legislating personal responsibility. Acknowledging the challenge of regulating common sense, a council member noted the complexities involved in amending existing policies. The council considered potential solutions, including increased police patrols or extending lifeguard hours, but no immediate resolutions were reached.

The conversation about beach safety extended to Mike Pipino, another resident, who emphasized the importance of keeping warning flags visible overnight to alert beachgoers of hazardous surf conditions. These safety concerns underscored a need for community involvement, with Ziza expressing a desire for public input in shaping future safety measures.

Amidst these discussions, the council addressed the fiscal year 2025 budget amendment, which reflected changes in anticipated revenues. The resolution detailed increases in interest on investments, beach badge revenue, and various grants, resulting in a total miscellaneous revenue adjustment from approximately $4 million to over $4.6 million. Adjustments were also made to appropriations, notably in code enforcement and construction salaries, leading to an overall increase in the general appropriation total. The budget amendment was approved unanimously, following a motion without public objection.

The council also introduced several ordinances, including Ordinance 202519 for acquiring stormwater maintenance equipment with a $1.7 million appropriation. This ordinance passed without questions. Ordinances 202522 and 202523, concerning amendments to rental property and mercantile license codes, were introduced to address non-compliance issues among property owners. These owners had been opting to pay fines rather than adhere to regulations. The proposed fines, ranging from $500 to $2,000, aimed to serve as an effective deterrent.

In addition to these legislative items, the council considered event authorizations, such as the American Angler Association Fishing Tournament and the CR Foundation Food Truck Wine Festival. These events were approved as a consent agenda, contingent on obtaining necessary permits from Ocean County.

The meeting also covered the rehabilitation of well systems near the water tower on 13th Avenue, as outlined in resolution 2025303. The Mayor stressed the importance of maintaining these wells, essential for supplying drinking water. The last rehabilitation occurred in 2017, and the project was supported by taxpayer capital expenses. During public comments, resident Tom Joseph inquired about the project’s financial specifics, questioning discrepancies in the figures available to the public. The council clarified the total cost of approximately $153,434 and acknowledged the need for clearer financial reporting to prevent misunderstandings.

The meeting concluded with discussions on community events, including a proposal to revive a scarecrow building contest for Halloween. The council expressed optimism about coordinating this event with the PTA-sponsored Halloween parade and a trunk or treat event.