The most pressing topic of the meeting revolved around the growing frustration among Lake Como residents regarding litter within the borough. Diane Kalazinski, a resident of Pine Terrace, detailed her observations on the accumulating trash problem, which she claimed was tarnishing the town’s image. During her comments, she vividly described the types of litter she encountered on her walks, such as liquor cans, snack wrappers, and even condoms, portraying a stark picture of the town’s neglect in waste management. Emphasizing the embarrassment this situation caused and the potential hazards it posed to children, Kalazinski proposed several solutions to combat the issue. Her suggestions included forming a “town trash brigade,” organizing community cleanup days, and implementing ordinances mandating lidded trash cans to prevent overflow.

Kalazinski also highlighted the need for more trash receptacles throughout the town, citing their scarcity as a contributing factor to the litter problem. She noted specific areas lacking adequate trash management, such as around local bars, particularly Joe’s Surf Shack, urging business owners to take more responsibility for cleanliness outside their establishments. Her comparison of Lake Como’s condition to the cleaner neighboring Spring Lake underscored the urgency of addressing the issue. Kalazinski expressed her willingness to lead efforts to improve the situation, calling for community involvement and accountability from both residents and businesses.

The council members acknowledged her concerns, and while specific actions were not immediately decided, the discussion opened the door for potential future measures to address the litter issue.

In addition to the community’s concerns about litter, the council also focused on several liquor license transfers and renewals, which were significant to local business operations. Resolution 2026-74 approved the transfer of a liquor license from Karan 2 Inc. to Arya Spirits Inc. During this discussion, representatives from Arya Spirits, including Karen Patel, addressed the council’s questions about maintaining cleanliness around the establishment. Patel assured the council of her awareness of these responsibilities and outlined plans for future renovations of the business’s second floor once sufficient capital was secured.

Following this, the council approved resolution 2026-77 for the Lake Ko wine shop, where completed ceiling repairs facilitated the reopening of the establishment. The representative confirmed that operations had resumed without further issues, leading to the resolution’s approval.

Resolution 2026-80 involved Aliatory Inc., trading as Bar Anticipation. Their representative, Reggie Hyde, addressed concerns related to coordination with the Belmar Police Department. Hyde explained that a letter from the Belmar attorney had resolved previous issues, allowing the establishment to move forward. He also reported the employment of a litter crew to manage waste, particularly during peak times, extending their efforts into neighboring Belmar.

The meeting also addressed resolution 2026-81 concerning Fehee Hospitality, trading as Joe Surf Shack. The representative confirmed awareness of the trash management discussions, committing to improvements in trash collection timing and adherence to cleanliness guidelines. The council emphasized the importance of maintaining cleanliness, especially during the off-season.

Additionally, the council approved resolution 2026-94, renewing a pocket license for Salty’s Beach Bar. With all documentation in order, the council passed the resolution without opposition.

Significant financial resolutions were also on the agenda, including resolution 2026-91, which authorized payments totaling over $1.6 million for various accounts. This financial decision received unanimous approval.

Resolution 2026-92 authorized the mayor and municipal clerk to execute a cooperative agreement with Monmouth County for the community development program. This agreement aimed to secure potential funding to support local projects. Another financial resolution, 2026-93, sought approval to submit a grant application for street improvements on Leroy Place and Burton Place, with work expected to commence in the fall, pending grant approval.

The meeting concluded with a discussion on scheduling the next regular meeting, set for July 7th. Concerns were raised about the availability of council members, with several indicating they would be out of town, leading to a motion to adjourn the session, which passed unanimously.