One of the primary concerns raised was traffic safety, specifically on Fourth Avenue. Resident Dennis Warl shared his personal experience, expressing that he did not feel safe due to the high speed of vehicles in the area. Warl suggested converting some side streets to one-way traffic to improve safety. The council acknowledged these concerns and noted that the parking committee had been considering this proposal. Additionally, it was mentioned that the city plans to implement roundabouts in 2025, which could address some of these issues.

The council devoted considerable time to a presentation by Lieutenant Renzo Pway and Deputy Chief Guy Thompson on the Police Athletic League (PAL). They outlined various current and future programs aimed at community outreach and engagement. The PAL unit comprises six police officers, one bike patrol officer, two full-time patrolmen, and three school resource officers. Among the initiatives discussed were a successful pilot self-defense course for women, plans for expanding youth programs, and the establishment of a Youth Leadership Council. This council will enable children to elect a board and take part in community projects, earning community service hours in the process.

Lieutenant Pway also highlighted a forthcoming financial literacy program in partnership with PNC Bank, designed to educate both adults and children on financial management and grants available to first-time homebuyers. Health awareness initiatives, including CPR courses and education on the use of Narcan to combat the opioid crisis, are also in the pipeline.

One of the standout programs within PAL is the boxing leadership initiative, which has been running for over two years. Located above the city’s Department of Public Works building, the program serves various age groups, focusing on leadership development alongside athletic training. A coach involved in the program emphasized the importance of building community-minded individuals, not just athletes. The boxing program has attracted over 50 youths and continues to provide academic support and transportation for participants.

The council also learned about the Sister Circle mentoring leadership program for young girls, which offers enrichment activities such as cooking, arts and crafts, and community service. This weekly program has been running since 2001 and aims to foster personal development and community engagement. Additionally, a new girls’ basketball league will be introduced, focusing on teaching fundamentals and providing competition opportunities.

Public participation during the meeting also brought attention to the preservation of community landmarks. Katherine Murphy expressed her condolences for the recent passing of a community figure named Rita and raised concerns about ongoing development and density in Asbury Park. Murphy stressed the importance of preserving landmarks such as Convention Hall and the Paramount Theatre. She urged the council to ensure that a recent $20 million grant, which includes $7 million earmarked for improvements to the southern boardwalk, be utilized to reopen the Paramount. Murphy expressed enthusiasm for the grant’s potential but emphasized the need for community input in its allocation.

The council confirmed ongoing discussions with Madison Marquette regarding the use of these funds and acknowledged specific priorities, including fixing windows and reopening the Paramount Theatre.

Another resident, Bishon Cfax, discussed the upcoming Porchfest event, highlighting its significance in community-building. Cfax requested the council to consider waiving a $1,000 fee associated with the event’s street closure, arguing that it could hinder the event’s community-building aspect. He emphasized his personal connection to the community and the importance of the event in his life.

The meeting also included routine approvals of various resolutions related to payment of bills, special event applications, contracts for engineering services, and grant applications. Notably, a resolution regarding the authorization for professional engineering services for the boardwalk restroom project was discussed, along with a resolution to appoint muralists for a project at the intersection of Springwood and Atkins Avenues.

A new resolution introduced during the meeting pertained to amending an alcoholic beverage control license for the Stone Pony, a well-known venue in the city. All resolutions were approved unanimously. The meeting concluded with the introduction of an ordinance regarding construction code fees, followed by a motion to adjourn, which was carried unanimously.