Residents’ concerns over noise levels, specifically from the Seashell Resort and Beach Club, dominated the council meeting. Public comments highlighted the disturbances caused by outdoor music, citing violations of the town’s noise ordinance and the impact on their quality of life. Community members called for the enforcement of noise ordinances and proposed that an addendum be added to the liquor licenses, mandating specific times for outdoor music to cease.

In response to the raised concerns, the owner of the Seashell Resort and Beach Club acknowledged the noise issues from the previous year and detailed the steps taken to mitigate the problem, which included hiring a sound consultant and implementing a new sound system designed to control the volume of live music. Additionally, the owner’s daughter outlined adjustments to the format and timing of the live music events to reduce noise impact on neighbors. The police chief confirmed that no noise complaints had been reported since these measures were taken.

Despite the Seashell’s efforts, some residents remained skeptical of the effectiveness of these changes. The council engaged in the discussion, weighing the need for immediate action against a more measured approach. The Police Chief proposed a plan that would allow police to issue summons and require the immediate cessation of outdoor music if a legitimate noise complaint was received during nighttime hours.

The discussion also touched upon the potential impact on business operations and the importance of balancing the interests of residents and businesses. A member of the public provided additional insight, noting that some complaints were repeat calls within short time frames.

Another resident used an app to measure the distance from the Seashell to their home, claiming the noise levels exceeded acceptable limits. Additionally, they recounted an altercation with the business owner regarding the noise, expressing frustration over the perceived lack of effective action. Residents floated the idea of moving the music indoors by 10 PM on weekdays and 11 PM on weekends as a solution.

In defense, the business owner asserted that their noise control system was set up to ensure compliance with permissible limits and mentioned hosting a wedding event instead of live entertainment on a particular night to alleviate noise concerns. Another resident urged for collaboration between the community and local businesses, while a different individual, with experience in the entertainment industry, cast doubt on the business’s ability to control bass and drum sounds effectively.

The council discussed potential compromises, such as imposing conditions on the liquor license of the affected business to address noise complaints after curfew hours. The mayor suggested this as a potential solution, emphasizing the need to work together in support of local businesses within the resort town setting.

Beyond noise control, the council approved several ordinances of note. These included establishing a four-way stop at the corner of Pennsylvania and Engleside Avenue, defining the boundaries of the Taylor Avenue parking lot, and providing trash pickup for businesses operating year-round. The council also tackled environmental concerns with the passage of an ordinance on tree removal and replacement.

An ordinance addressing stormwater management was passed with no discussion, as was an ordinance to establish a theater license for a nonprofit corporation conducting musical or theatrical performances. Additionally, an ordinance aimed to clarify regulations regarding the display of the American flag, with council members underscoring the need for clear language to prevent limitations on the number of flags displayed.

The council approved a transient accommodation occupancies tax, seen as a means to supplement town revenue. Lastly, an ordinance was passed authorizing the execution and granting of a deed of dedication and perpetual public access easement to the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection.

Public comments on the ordinances raised concerns about commercial shellfish fishermen’s lack of oversight when using public property and the potential risks to taxpayers. The impact of the ordinances on public access and fairness was also discussed.

The meeting concluded with community events announcements, including successful community events like the Artwalk and the anticipation of an upcoming Film Festival. The council also noted the availability of petitions for the upcoming municipal election and upcoming neighborhood watch meetings before a motion to adjourn was made.