The meeting centerpiece was a proclamation honoring Mayor Nancy Davis, who has served on the Municipal Council for 14 years, including two terms as mayor. The proclamation detailed her educational background, career as a pathology professor, and contributions to the town, such as preserving the Surf Light Theater and the municipal dune system. Davis’s leadership during Superstorm Sandy, her role in relocating municipal offices, and spearheading a new municipal complex project were particularly commended. The complex received financial support from the Economic Development Authority, reflecting her ability to secure essential funding for major projects.

Davis, expressing gratitude for her time on the council, emphasized the team effort behind her achievements and her love for Beach Haven. The meeting reflected on her ability to connect with residents and her commitment to understanding diverse perspectives. Her son, Conor, joined remotely to share his pride in her accomplishments and noted her selflessness in addressing community concerns.

Council members and the public expressed admiration and respect for Davis. One speaker praised her ability to unite the community, saying, “You’ve made Beach Haven without doubt the finest town on Long Beach Island and probably the finest town on the Jersey Shore.” Another council member noted her impressive dedication, reportedly “putting in 40 to 60 hours a week,” and celebrated specific accomplishments like securing financial reimbursements and grants post-Hurricane Sandy, and establishing the Robin Hood fund to aid residents in need.

As the meeting progressed, attention shifted to concerns about communication practices within the council, particularly regarding the resignation of a library board member. The resignation letter of Mrs. Lloyd, received on December 5th, was not communicated to relevant parties until shortly before the meeting. This delay sparked frustration among council members and raised questions about internal communication protocols. One member voiced a strong objection, not to the appointment of Mr. Kona as a replacement, but to the lack of timely communication, emphasizing the importance of transparency and respect towards the library board.

The discussion revealed underlying tensions with members acknowledging the need for more structured communication. The incident highlighted a recurring theme of the meeting, emphasizing the necessity for improved communication and transparency within council operations.

The council also handled various administrative tasks, including reviewing cash receipts and disbursements and discussing an ordinance on purchasing water meters. A salary resolution sparked further debate, with a request to include names alongside job titles for clarity, leading to the resolution being tabled for future discussion.

Public comments underscored the ongoing issues of transparency. Residents like Deb Witcraft raised concerns over communication practices, calling for the new governing body to prioritize transparency. Suggestions were made, such as setting goals for 2025 and facilitating community forums to enhance communication between the council and the public.

As the meeting concluded, a proposed resolution to suspend the Alcoholic Beverage Control license for the Marlin Restaurant and Bar for seven days was unanimously approved. The council also discussed plans for the upcoming reorganization meeting, where new council members would be sworn in, and procedural rules adopted.