The Paramount Theater renovation is a significant project for Asbury Park. The council received an update from the city attorney, who confirmed the approval of an addendum to the subgrant agreement with Madison Mansbury Retail. This agreement facilitates the partial repair of the theater, with Poland SST, a contractor experienced on-site, taking charge of the project. The work is scheduled to mobilize by the end of the month and aims for completion by December 12. To secure the necessary funding, all repairs must be finalized by December 31. A payment process is in place.

The council also received a presentation from the Environmental Shade Tree Commission on the city’s partial tree inventory. This initiative, funded by a $20,000 grant from the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection, identified approximately 153 trees, revealing a concerning lack of diversity among species. London plane trees, calorie pears, and Japanese scholar trees dominate, posing potential risks to the urban forest’s health if a disease were to affect these species. The findings highlighted that 59% of the trees are in fair condition, necessitating maintenance, while only 36% are in good condition. The commission stressed the urgency of developing a diverse urban forestry plan to mitigate potential losses from disease outbreaks.

A public tree management plan is essential for maintaining the city’s New Jersey urban and community forestry accreditation, crucial for grant applications related to tree planting and maintenance. Licensed tree experts are aiding in formulating this plan, which will guide the city over the next five years, focusing on native species and avoiding invasive trees. The plan requires input from various city departments to ensure comprehensive coverage. A draft will be circulated for feedback before finalization, with a state approval needed for cost reimbursement.

Public participation featured inquiries about the maintenance of permeable pavers and affordable housing developments. Resident Frank Cuchinatada highlighted the absence of a maintenance plan for permeable pavers, stressing the need for regular upkeep to ensure their effectiveness. Another resident raised questions about the timeline for affordable housing projects, underscoring community interest in these developments.

In financial matters, the council introduced the 2026 municipal budget, presented as $63.085 million. Despite stagnant state aid and rising costs, the budget maintains all current programs without increasing the tax rate. The city manager and chief financial officer outlined the budget’s conservative nature, balancing the tax rate while addressing cost challenges, including a 7% increase in general liability insurance.

The council expressed gratitude for the collaborative efforts of city employees in the budget process, noting that Asbury Park avoided drastic service cuts faced by other municipalities. However, concerns were raised regarding the tax burden on seniors and fixed-income residents, with members emphasizing the need for careful budget management to prevent future economic challenges. The budget process involves a public hearing scheduled for May 6, followed by adoption and submission for tax rate certification.

The meeting also highlighted community engagement through various events. A new R&B picnic is planned for June 13 at Springwood Park, with council members expressing enthusiasm for local involvement. Additionally, ongoing line dancing sessions at the Senior Towers, swimming lessons for children, and a community spring-cleaning event at Kula Farms were promoted, alongside a beautification initiative for the west side in collaboration with Interfaith Neighbors.