0:05Chief Adam Aler of the Beach Haven Fire Department expressed gratitude towards the council for this investment, emphasizing its importance in maintaining effective emergency response capabilities. The ordinance passed unanimously following a concise discussion, highlighting the council’s alignment on prioritizing public safety needs.

Another topic discussed was the formal recognition of the Meals on Wheels program during the meeting. The council, led by Mayor Colleen Lambert, proclaimed March 2025 as Senior Nutrition Month, acknowledging the vital role of the Meals on Wheels initiative in addressing nutritional needs for the elderly. The program, serving over 1,000 seniors daily in Ocean County, ensures both meal delivery and wellness checks, actions crucial for combating food insecurity and loneliness among older adults. Mayor Lambert urged community members to support the program through donations and volunteering, emphasizing the continued need for community backing.

Jim Sigardson, the executive director of Ocean County Meals on Wheels, was present to accept the proclamation. He praised the dedication of his team and reiterated the necessity of community support to meet operational demands, mentioning that approximately 30 individuals remain waitlisted due to funding constraints.

In addition to these highlights, the council addressed several ordinances impacting the borough’s operations and infrastructure. Ordinance 2025-3C, which proposed amending the police department’s organizational structure to allow for two police captains instead of one, was approved unanimously. The change was confirmed to have no impact on salaries, addressing some public inquiries during the meeting.

Ordinance 2025-6C, which introduced amendments to zoning definitions related to accessory buildings, particularly retaining walls, was a focal point of discussion. The ordinance aimed to clarify standards, ensuring retaining walls are designed by licensed professionals to withstand flotation, especially in stormwater hazard areas. The council emphasized the importance of clear definitions to eliminate gray areas in legal interpretations and ensure aesthetic consistency within the community.

15:29The council also revisited the topic of fire pits, which had not been addressed in recent discussions. There was a light-hearted moment when a council member humorously noted, “I can’t feel the heat from my neighbor’s fire pit,” pointing to perceived gaps in current regulations.

Additionally, the meeting covered labor agreements and financial matters, including a labor agreement with Local 97 for Public Works. This agreement, concluded after extensive negotiations, included increased clothing allowances, revised overtime compensation rules, and salary increments over three years, aimed at supporting and incentivizing the workforce.

0:05The financial reports for February 2025 were reviewed, highlighting cash receipts and disbursements across various accounts. The current fund account reported receipts of over $2.2 million against disbursements of approximately $639,000. The council’s attention to financial health was further demonstrated with the approval of a bill list totaling over three million dollars.

15:29Public comment during the meeting was limited, with Deb Witchcraft expressing appreciation for the efforts of Mayor Lambert and Councilman McCaffrey at a recent Beach Haven Taxpayers Association meeting. The council members were noted for their effective handling of community concerns during the public meeting.

As the meeting concluded, council members exchanged pleasantries, acknowledging the upcoming St. Patrick’s Day and the commencement of spring sports seasons in local schools. Council members thanked participants for their engagement, both in-person and virtually, reflecting on the community’s dynamic involvement in borough affairs.