The most pressing topic was the proposed overlay zone in the business district. The zone, intended to restrict certain types of development, would prohibit single-family homes, duplexes, multifamily units without a commercial component, hotels, and motels from 12th Street to the north side of Amber Street. The council considered extending the district beyond Amber Street but decided to seek additional community input before finalizing the boundaries. The goal of the overlay zone is to maintain the area’s commercial viability and prevent a shift towards becoming a bedroom community. Concerns were raised by council members and residents alike regarding the right balance between business interests and the community’s well-being.

The discussion on the overlay zone highlighted the town’s master plan, emphasizing the importance of a thriving Town Center. A member of the public expressed disappointment, advocating for more consideration of the taxpayers over businesses, while another resident supported the district’s role in the town’s appeal, urging the council to find ways to bolster businesses operating on a seasonal basis. Additionally, a query about amending the hotel and motel occupancy tax to include online marketplace rentals was raised but remained unresolved.

The council addressed the renewal of the lease with the fire company for the Emergency Operations Center (EOC) property, contemplating a two-year lease term. They agreed to revisit the lease terms following renovations to negotiate additional amenities and requirements. No substantial disagreements emerged on this matter.

The liquor license renewals for the Seashell Club Inc and Tuckers Restaurant Inc sparked a debate over whether to impose special conditions regarding live music and outdoor seating. The council approved the licenses with stipulations, including a requirement for live outdoor entertainment to end at 11 p.m. seven days a week and live music on Thursdays to move indoors after 9 p.m. These conditions were applied to address noise and disturbances within the community and to uphold resolutions by the land use board.

A resident during the public comment portion brought up the sewer ordinance issue, where a misunderstanding by the sewer collector led to lower quarterly bills than intended. The council decided to analyze the financial implications before adjusting the rates to reflect the Sewer Authority’s actual charges.

Other points of discussion included a grant application for road reconstruction, ongoing litigation, and the town’s participation in a lawsuit concerning the potential industrialization of the ocean related to wind turbines. The council explained that Long Beach Township leads the legal matter, and their participation was determined through a consensus vote. Additionally, a representative from the EOC updated the council on a fireboat grant application.