The central issue that dominated the Asbury Park Planning Board meeting was the request by Asbury Partners for an extended period of zoning protection to construct a beach club at block 4502 lot 1.23. Attorney Jennifer Philip Smith, representing Asbury Partners, requested the extension, explaining that more time was needed to secure consent under the subsequent developer agreement. Witness David Fergal confirmed the lack of necessary governmental approvals at this stage.

Residents expressed concerns during the public comment segment, questioning the timeframe for obtaining the final approval and what Asbury Partners could potentially build if the current plans for the pool club were not approved by Madison Marquette, the entity that must give consent for the project to proceed.

The discussion then shifted to the implications of the 2002 Redevelopment plan and its expiration date, which seemed to be a point of uncertainty. One of the issues was the exclusive use of the site, as stipulated under the Redevelopment agreement, which only permits the construction of the beach club. The board debated the potential impact of newly enacted laws related to flood zones and coastal areas on the project. It was noted that the project had already received Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) approval and that new laws may not affect it.

A point of contention was the duration of negotiations and the relationship between public and private facilities. The board emphasized the necessity for the public beach club to begin construction within 18 months of the private beach club’s completion. There were also discussions about the city of Asbury Park’s safeguards in the construction agreement.

Board members raised concerns about potential changes to the project’s architectural drawings and the need for updated engineering plans in response to FEMA’s rulings and their potential effects on the water table. The board deliberated over these concerns and the frustration expressed by a member over delays in the project’s approval.

Ultimately, the Planning Board approved the request for a two-year extension of the zoning protections, despite one member voting against it. This approval was granted with the understanding that the developer would continue to work towards fulfilling the conditions required for the project to proceed.