A significant portion of the meeting focused on the challenges posed by beach replenishment and dredging costs. The council acknowledged that the local dredging company holds a monopoly, contributing to inflated costs and limited inventory. To mitigate these issues, the council is exploring ways to engage dredging companies from other countries that could potentially offer more competitive pricing and reliable service. These efforts are part of broader discussions with appropriation staff from both the House and Senate, who have shown receptiveness to the council’s concerns about the beaches. The possibility of applying pressure to the governor’s office to declare a state of emergency was also discussed, as such a declaration could unlock substantial funding from the Army Corps of Engineers, which is deemed critical for the township’s beach management.

Mayor Curtis T. Corson, Jr. highlighted the availability of significant funding but emphasized that securing a declaration from the governor requires considerable effort and time. This declaration is seen as a critical step in accessing the “big pot of money” that would support beach replenishment efforts.

Another topic of considerable importance was public safety, specifically concerning pedestrian safety during Friday night wrestling events on Route 50. The council deliberated on a temporary solution involving state police support to ensure the safety of pedestrians at the community center for the remainder of the season. This measure provides the council with time to develop a more permanent solution for the following season. Coordination with local schools was mentioned as a potential approach to enhance pedestrian safety.

The meeting also addressed administrative matters, including a correction to the timing of an upcoming public hearing related to cannabis ordinances. Originally scheduled for February 23rd at 5:30 PM, the hearing was adjusted to 6:30 PM to accommodate EMS awards occurring earlier that day. Ensuring accurate public advertisement of this change was emphasized to avoid any confusion among residents.

In terms of legislative actions, the council moved through the consent agenda without any items being called for separate consideration, enacting routine matters with a single motion. This was followed by the introduction and first reading of a bond ordinance for various capital improvements, with approval sought for a sum of $5,143,000. Further discussion on this matter was scheduled for February 23rd.

In new business, the council addressed the upcoming Strath Fourth of July parade, making a motion to authorize correspondence to the county to confirm the parade route. This motion passed unanimously. Additionally, the Ocean City Crew Boosters’ request to hold a raffle at the E. Marie Hayes Boat House was approved.

During the public comment portion, Alice March from Strathmir raised an administrative detail regarding the parade route, correcting the council on the direction of the parade. She expressed gratitude to public works for their timely snow removal, contrasting her positive experience with delays faced by friends in neighboring areas. Another resident, Elsie Jameson from Seville, inquired about the possibility of implementing a local tax on vendors to generate additional revenue. She suggested that vendors be required to provide trash bags to minimize litter and proposed that construction workers use individual trash bags for debris, highlighting concerns about trash management.

Following public comments, the council closed the public portion of the meeting and entered into executive session to discuss several contract negotiations and litigation matters. This included negotiations with a municipal advisor and issues related to a liquor license renewal. A motion to enter into executive session was approved unanimously, allowing the council to address sensitive issues in a confidential setting.