The vessel ordinance, identified as Ordinance 20245C, drew attention from the public and council members. Concerns were raised over the absence of insurance requirements for boat slips and the transferability of permits, as well as the types of vessels allowed. The lack of liability insurance for businesses utilizing public property was also a point of contention. The council engaged in a discussion on the ordinance’s intent, with emphasis on the need to protect the interests of the local maritime community. Despite the debate and one opposing vote, the council decided to pass the ordinance.

Furthermore, the council members grappled with issues surrounding teen nights at local establishments. The debate centered on the conduct of teenagers, the level of supervision provided, and the potential strain on the community. The police chief raised concerns about fights, underage drinking, and vandalism associated with teen nights, and the impact such events have on law enforcement resources. Different viewpoints were presented: while some members underscored the challenges in managing these events, others recalled the importance of providing social venues for youth. The council considered giving business owners the opportunity to address the issues.

Another subject of interest was the budget for the year 2024, which the council discussed in detail. The potential introduction of a drone expense was debated, with some members expressing concerns regarding the $25,000 cost.

The council also addressed a variety of proposed ordinances during the meeting. These included regulations on tree removal, salt storage, stormwater control, solid waste, vehicles and traffic, and municipal parking lots. Discussions were held about the tree removal ordinance, which offers exemptions for residents removing fewer trees, and the solid waste ordinance, which enshrines garbage service for year-round businesses. A resident’s request for a four-way stop was considered under the vehicles and traffic ordinance, and redefinitions of the Taylor Avenue parking lot area were proposed to eliminate prior exemptions.

Beach replenishment was a topic of concern, with the project expected to start in June. The council discussed the plan to close a thousand feet of beach at a time, moving one block per day, and its potential impact on rental homes and businesses. Public comments included varying opinions on teen night events, with suggestions ranging from discontinuation to the concept of a teen morning.

The meeting also included resolutions opposing gas tax increases, authorizing sewer and lateral replacements, and other routine authorizations and contracts. There was a call for reflection on the effectiveness and reputation impact of a 10 p.m. curfew ordinance, implemented in the previous season. Additionally, discussions touched on the community’s upcoming events such as a block party and a Heritage Day celebration.