The most notable topic of the meeting was the ongoing debate over beach access restrictions. The 60-year-old ordinance limiting access to the beach between 9:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m. was at the forefront, with council members expressing worries about public safety incidents during off-hours. Mayor Foley articulated the council’s position, emphasizing the risks of 24/7 access, including illegal activities such as fishing and trespassing. The council’s stance was backed by the public safety department, which supported maintaining the status quo to protect town residents and property.

Public comments revealed a community divided over the proposed restrictions. Gordon Naylor, a local resident, opposed the changes, arguing that closing off access would burden city staff and undermine the community’s character. Naylor highlighted the historical significance of the Beach Comr Lane access, warning that gating could lead to increased trespassing and a negative perception of community values. “What does that say about our trust in one another?” he questioned.

Other residents, including Brian Hagerty and Johanna Jones, echoed similar concerns. Hagerty read a letter from Cornelius Aen, who raised accessibility issues for individuals with mobility challenges. Jones focused on the aesthetic implications of gating the area, noting that many enjoy early morning walks on the beach. She expressed doubts about the practicality of the proposed gates, anticipating potential trespassing on private property if the gates were not opened promptly.

Resident Megan Wat, who expressed anxiety about public speaking, emphasized the importance of beach access as a factor in her decision to invest in her home. She argued that a gate would diminish the area’s beauty and questioned the financial implications of maintaining such a structure. “It’s upsetting that this isn’t something that’s more considered,” she stated, reflecting broader concerns about property values and community enjoyment.

In response to these concerns, the council reiterated their commitment to consider the issues raised, with Mayor Foley stating that further details would be addressed by the town manager. Despite the public’s apprehension, the council maintained that the ordinance had been thoroughly discussed in previous meetings.

Another discussion point was the proposed expenditure of $50,000 for a new fence to address beach access issues. Resident John Traniano suggested using cameras as a cost-effective alternative, but the mayor explained that past proposals for cameras met significant opposition from residents who viewed it as an invasion of privacy. The mayor emphasized that the fence would be a one-time cost and more aesthetically pleasing than temporary barricades.

The meeting also concentrated on the annual performance evaluation of the town manager, Jim Harting. Mayor Foley and council members praised Harting’s accomplishments, noting his success in negotiating a collective bargaining agreement and reducing the property tax mill rate. Councilman Carroll commended Harting’s leadership, while the Vice Mayor recommended a 7% salary increase for Harting, paired with a salary freeze for the following year to facilitate budget cuts.

Ordinance discussions included amendments to the building and structures code, site plan development process, and procedures for certified recovery residences, all of which were passed unanimously. Compliance with state statutes regarding detox residences was also highlighted, with the council agreeing on the necessity of meeting these requirements.

Public safety updates featured planned upgrades, including a new engine and patrol vehicle, and secure communication systems. The council was invited to tour the renovated public safety facility, which had improved evidence security.

Towards the end of the meeting, concerns about transparency and communication surfaced during public comments. Residents like Steve Morgan and Earl Simpson expressed frustrations over the handling of Beach Comr Lane issues, questioning the transparency of past discussions and decisions. The council acknowledged these concerns.