One of the meeting’s focal points was the passage of multiple ordinances designed to enhance the borough’s infrastructure. The council unanimously approved Ordinance 2025-23, which authorizes a total appropriation of $2,220,000 for various capital improvements. These improvements include road enhancements, storm drain replacements, bulkhead repairs, and new equipment acquisitions for public works. Council members underscored the necessity of these projects, noting that many had been postponed for years.

Ordinance 2025-24 focused specifically on the water system, allocating $250,000 for the replacement of a backup generator at the water plant. Similarly, Ordinance 2025-25 aimed to upgrade the sewer system, with an appropriation of $980,000 dedicated to sewer replacements and equipment acquisitions.

The council also addressed the financial aspects of these improvements, approving Ordinance 202527, which amends a previous bond ordinance to account for an additional $645,000 related to the anticipated Green Acres Grant. This amendment supports the Jake’s Playground project at Nelson Avenue. The council expressed enthusiasm for moving forward with the project, emphasizing the importance of the Green Acres Grant in facilitating these enhancements.

While infrastructure improvements dominated much of the discussion, the meeting also revisited the contentious issue of private dune walkovers. Ordinance 2025-26C aimed to amend existing regulations to better protect the dunes, which have been increasingly vulnerable to storm damage. During discussions, council members acknowledged the divisive nature of the ordinance, with some expressing concerns about how private walkways might fragment the dunes.

The debate intensified during the public comment period, when Laura Simon, a wildlife ecologist, voiced her opposition to the proposed private walkways. Simon argued that these walkways could undermine efforts to protect the fragile dunes, which are important for coastal resilience. She highlighted the contradiction between allowing private access and the public messaging that urges residents to stay off the dunes. Simon also questioned the legal basis for these walkways and suggested that the ordinance be reconsidered in light of environmental concerns.

In contrast, Fran Mleti supported the council’s efforts to improve the dune ordinance. Mleti reported observing no damage to the dunes caused by the walkways and emphasized the need for community involvement in planting dune grass along the entire oceanfront. This broader engagement, she argued, was essential for reinforcing the dunes, rather than focusing solely on areas with private walkways.

This outcome reflects the ongoing challenges of balancing environmental preservation with property rights, a debate that is likely to continue as the community grapples with the impact of coastal storms.

In addition to the major ordinances, the council approved a series of resolutions included in the consent agenda. Among these was Resolution 219, which awarded a contract for the renovation of the emergency operations center to Seawolf Construction Corp., doing business as Imperial Construction and Electric. Other resolutions addressed drainage issues, memorialized the Beach Haven stormwater pump station project, and returned remaining escrow and bond amounts.

The meeting concluded with expressions of gratitude from the council to various departments, including public works, police, and fire, for their efforts during a recent challenging weekend. Council members acknowledged the difficulties faced by these departments and appreciated their work in mitigating damage and ensuring community safety. There was also mention of upcoming community events, such as a trunk or treat and a pet parade, and ongoing discussions about improving emergency operations during storms.