The renaming of No Name Road emerged as a significant agenda item due to safety concerns voiced by residents. Robert Grimley highlighted the lack of proper signage on properties along the road, which could pose hazards during emergencies. The absence of identifiable addresses raised potential liability issues for the township. After discussing possible names, including the suggestion of Empress Court due to the presence of three Empress trees on the property fronting the road, the council unanimously supported the motion to rename the road. The renaming process will involve introducing an ordinance, followed by a public hearing and a period for public comment.

The aftermath of Hurricane Aaron was another pressing topic, with elected officials reporting on the storm’s impact and recovery efforts. One council member described the intensive coordination efforts with public works to mitigate storm damage, noting illegal dumping by a resident that hindered the cleanup. The situation escalated when Governor Murphy declared a state of emergency, prompting updates about rising tides and flooding. Significant debris was observed along Bay Avenue, and barricades were erected in Ocean City to prevent access to dangerous areas. Officials reported damage to dunes and challenges faced in restoring them due to regulatory constraints and adverse weather conditions. Nonetheless, debris removal was successfully completed at Beasley’s Point.

The council also addressed the performance of the lifeguard team during the storm, recounting a critical incident involving a capsized wave runner. The lifeguards responded proactively.

In discussing shared service agreements, the council highlighted upcoming collaborations with the city of Woodbine. The township’s court system is set to integrate with Woodbine’s by January 1, 2026, pending judicial approval. An agreement with Woodbine’s EMS department was also noted, potentially enhancing collaboration and generating revenue from billing. These efforts align with a broader county-wide investigation into municipal court consolidation, which aims to streamline operations without layoffs, as seen in Atlantic County.

Attention then turned to a proposal to merge the zoning board with the planning board, creating a joint land use board. This restructuring aims to reduce costs and improve efficiency by consolidating functions. The planning board members would remain, with potential appointment of additional alternates. The council emphasized the need for training to support this transition, as the planning board would assume responsibilities for variance relief. A motion to pursue the ordinance for the merger passed unanimously, with the public to have opportunities for input in future meetings.

During public comments, residents voiced concerns about various issues, including residential agricultural zoning regulations. Don Batton highlighted the absence of ordinances regarding goats, classified as livestock, and the impact of noisy goats disrupting residential areas. Residents suggested reviewing the township’s zoning regulations to address these concerns.

Another resident, Natalie Nice, echoed Batton’s concerns and raised issues regarding property deeds and invasive species, such as Empress trees. She suggested the township address these issues similarly to their existing regulations on bamboo.

Amidst these discussions, a resident expressed gratitude to the township committee for their hard work in addressing community concerns, acknowledging the challenges they face.

The meeting concluded with the council entering a closed session to discuss personnel matters, contract negotiations for animal control services, and special legal counsel. The motion to enter the executive session was approved unanimously.