04:36One item at the meeting was the presentation by the UEZ coordinator and representatives from the consultancy firm Topology. They unveiled the city’s five-year Urban Enterprise Zone (UEZ) plan, which is designed to guide spending and development to support local businesses. The UEZ status allows participating businesses to collect only half of the standard sales tax, directing the other half towards local projects. This plan is underpinned by a vision to make Asbury Park a vibrant hub for arts, culture, and entertainment, catering to both residents and visitors.

07:51The presenters detailed an extensive outreach effort that informed the plan, which included meetings with 24 businesses and property owners, door-to-door canvassing, and tabling events during community gatherings. An online survey garnered responses from 133 participants. Key themes emerging from this outreach highlighted parking challenges, marketing needs, and the desire for increased off-season activities. The plan proposes enhancing the city’s built environment to reflect its unique culture, fostering a year-round consumer experience, and improving transit options.

15:56The public comment period for this plan began on June 18, inviting community feedback until just after the meeting. The council is set to consider revisions based on this input before potentially submitting the plan to the state on July 23.

19:12During public participation, Carrie Turner of the Asbury Park Arts Council expressed gratitude for the collaboration between the city and the arts council, particularly noting the inclusion of funding in the new arts and culture plan. She also announced the APN3, a three-minute film challenge, with a November premiere for the films.

21:02Resident Frank Cuchinada raised concerns about infrastructure improvement plans, particularly the lack of adequate notification to property owners within a 200-foot radius. He highlighted potential issues with exhaust and fumes due to backend angled parking arrangements and called for an environmental study to assess the implications. Cuchinada suggested modifications to preserve green space and reduce costs, expressing disappointment at the perceived prioritization of visitor amenities over residents’ rights. A council member acknowledged the need for a more comprehensive response to these concerns at the next meeting.

25:48Gabriella Cuchinada, speaking on behalf of the Shade Tree Commission, announced the receipt of a New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection grant to conduct tree inventory work. She urged the council to expedite the contracting process, emphasizing the importance of assessing the trees while in leaf. The council discussed procedural hurdles and agreed to convene a meeting to finalize decisions once a key staff member returned from vacation.

29:23The council also addressed routine matters, including the approval of previous meeting minutes and consent agenda resolutions. Noteworthy was the introduction of several ordinances, including a financial agreement related to waterfront redevelopment and a proposed ordinance to prohibit the breeding of dogs and cats, set for public hearings on July 23.