The most contentious topic of the meeting revolved around the regulation of private dune walkovers. Ordinance 2025-26 C, aiming to amend Chapter 57 of the borough code concerning beach protection and private dune walkovers, sparked debate. The ordinance, which has been in development since November 2024, seeks to regulate walkovers more stringently, allowing only those with permits obtained before 2023 to continue using them. The ordinance was introduced to address feedback from oceanfront homeowners following beach replenishment efforts.

During the public comment session, residents expressed divergent views. While the mayor clarified that the ordinance did not ban walkovers but tightened regulations, some attendees criticized the $100 permit fee as insufficient. A resident remarked, “I wish it was $10,000, but it’s a hundred,” indicating dissatisfaction with the fee’s adequacy. Another speaker, Bruce, explained that the fee is due by April 1st and includes a three-month grace period. He emphasized the council’s intent was not punitive but to ensure compliance.

Environmental concerns were also prominent. Laura Simon, a wildlife ecologist, opposed private walkovers, noting their environmental impact and redundancy given existing public access. She asserted, “We need to prioritize restoring the dunes” and questioned the legality of private access across public land. Another resident, Jennifer Woods, echoed these sentiments, asserting that oceanfront homeowners already enjoy significant privileges without needing private crossovers.

The conversation also addressed misconceptions about land ownership, with some believing they own land down to the dune’s toe, while others clarified it as public land with Army Corps of Engineers’ access rights. These discussions culminated in a vote, with one council member opposing the ordinance due to concerns about private walkovers traversing public land. Despite opposition, the ordinance passed, with the council indicating a willingness to revisit the issue if it did not meet dune preservation goals.

Simultaneously, condo owners expressed dissatisfaction with their perceived treatment as “second-class citizens,” particularly regarding emergency re-entry policies. Mary Lee Gaffne from Renaissance Condos articulated frustration over limited access to their properties after emergencies, despite contributing to local services. She highlighted potential delays in addressing storm damage and questioned the rationale behind the council’s stance on placard use for property access during emergencies.

Diane Flynn, another condo owner, supported Gaffne’s position, emphasizing the logistical challenges of managing multi-level units post-emergency. Chris Grindrod further underscored the impracticality of relying on a single individual for property management during crises, urging the council to empathize with their situation.

In response, council members acknowledged these concerns and assured residents of ongoing discussions with the emergency management team. They recognized the need for flexibility in policies to accommodate condo living’s unique circumstances. Council members expressed understanding and a willingness to reconsider aspects of the policy, emphasizing safety as a priority while committing to further dialogue with relevant teams.

Additional public comments included gratitude for the unofficial dog park’s maintenance and concerns about wildlife impacts on dune vegetation. Fran Bralleski noted an increasing rabbit population affecting recently planted dune grass, prompting council members to acknowledge the issue’s significance. A wildlife ecologist countered claims of rabbit-induced damage.

The council also addressed routine matters, including the approval of various resolutions and financial affairs. Notably, they opposed a proposed settlement between the NJDEP and 3M Company concerning PFAS and recognized November as National Family Caregiver Month. The meeting concluded with acknowledgments of veterans, as it coincided with Veterans Day, and reminders about upcoming community events.