The council’s discussion on the promenade extension project highlighted the importance of improving flood resilience in the area, a critical factor for this beach community. The project is supported by a $4.2 million federal funding opportunity, which requires a 5% local match of $200,000. The awarded contract to Catel Incorporated amounts to $2,575,225, with allowances for contingencies that may increase the total cost. This project is funded through a federal grant related to post-Hurricane Sandy recovery efforts and must be completed by the end of the year to comply with funding requirements.

Concerns were raised about temporary access disruptions to the beach, particularly at Evergreen Avenue. The council assured that while access may be occasionally interrupted, traffic directors will manage these periods to ensure safety. Preliminary staging may occur, but significant construction activities will begin later in July to avoid impacting the July 4th holiday. Plans include temporary access pathways and stairwells to ensure that beach access points remain operational.

The council also discussed a resolution to terminate an agreement with Manchester Township for shared Chief Financial Officer (CFO) services, which will save the borough approximately $30,000. The termination will take effect on June 30.

In other topics, the council adopted an ordinance addressing building height adjustments related to groundwater issues. This ordinance allows for a height increase of up to two feet in cases where groundwater problems affect construction. The land use board verified that the ordinance aligns with the borough’s master plan. Public comments included gratitude from a resident for the council’s swift action, acknowledging the ordinance’s potential to alleviate drainage issues associated with sump pumps.

Another ordinance introduced a tiered fee structure for special events, replacing the previous flat fee of $2,500. The new structure ranges from $500 to $3,000, based on the level of resources used during events. The council noted that fees could still be waived under specific circumstances, particularly for borough entities.

The meeting also featured a proclamation for the Bradley Beach Community Toy Library, an initiative dedicated at the Lorraine Avenue beach entrance. This project encourages community spirit and environmental stewardship by allowing residents and visitors to borrow, enjoy, and return beach toys. Volunteers like Roseanne Whitby and John Naples were recognized for their contributions to this project.

Public comments included strong dissatisfaction from resident William Shifth Avenue regarding a Memorial Day-related book. He criticized inaccuracies and omissions of local veterans, describing the publication as a “disgrace” for not representing all veterans equally. The council acknowledged the need for accuracy in such documents and invited Shifth to meet with the mayor or borough administrator to address the issues.

The council meeting also included announcements about community events and initiatives. The Bradley Beach Community Alliance (BBBCA) is organizing a food pantry pickup event to support local families, and a coastal kickoff soccer expo is planned. The Environmental Commission reported on invasive plant removal efforts and educational initiatives regarding gas-powered leaf blowers. The fire department and first aid squad reported on their respective activities, with both seeking volunteers.