A significant portion of the council meeting was dedicated to discussing sustainable landscaping and related community initiatives. Updates about the Green Team highlighted the ongoing management of grants and the need to finalize a social media component. The council explored shifting grant budget allocations from consulting workshops to purchasing battery-operated landscaping equipment, which could benefit both residents and workers by reducing exposure risks.

Council members also engaged in discussions about the upcoming San Janeiro Festival, emphasizing their role in distributing informational materials and engaging with attendees. An invited guest, Iana, presented plans for an exhibition titled “Nature at the Shore,” which will focus on native plants and is scheduled for the following April and May. The council expressed interest in co-sponsoring a workshop during Native Plants Month in April.

Another focal point was the council’s relationship with the Shade Tree Commission, particularly regarding the management of trees around Silver Lake. The commission opted to defer management responsibilities to the council, citing their existing workload. The council discussed potential tree removal to facilitate maintenance and improve visibility around the lake. Additionally, they acknowledged the need to inform the community about any planned spraying activities.

The council also discussed topics related to the Army Corps of Engineers, noting a delay in a scheduled meeting due to a key engineer’s health issues. They anticipate a meeting in December to discuss project feedback and additional information requirements. The discussion included an update on federal funding, which currently includes a million-dollar allocation, though future budget developments remain uncertain.

The council further explored Belmar’s energy plan, focusing on Sustainable Jersey initiatives. They are conducting an audit process to compile energy bills and address delays caused by a third-party vendor managing part of the energy supply. A new grant for community energy planning was announced, with a $10,000 allocation aimed at improving energy efficiency. A proposed workshop with department leaders will help identify priorities for the grant, though the planning grant will not cover direct purchases. The council aims to formulate a plan to enhance efficiency and secure further funding by December.

Discussions on regional collaboration efforts centered on environmental initiatives for Shark River. A council member shared insights from a meeting with representatives from neighboring towns, focusing on dredging, water quality stabilization, and shoreline protection. The county is leading these efforts, with optimism about securing funding and establishing a sustainable collaborative committee. This approach is compared to successful past initiatives, such as those with the Deal Lake Commission.