The meeting’s central topic revolved around the proposed bathroom facility at 16th Avenue, a project that has sparked extensive discussion due to its financial implications. The council had initially secured a $1.5 million state grant to fund the construction of a permanent restroom facility on the beach. However, the lowest bid from a contractor came in at $1.8 million, surpassing the original engineering estimate. This increase in cost was largely attributed to additional requirements mandated by the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP). These requirements included raising the structure, installing entrance ramps, and relocating playground equipment, all of which contributed to the inflated budget.

To address the funding gap without imposing new taxes on residents, the council proposed utilizing existing capital beach funds. There was debate over whether redesigning and rebidding the project might be a viable solution. However, the urgency of the timeline was highlighted by both the CFO and the borough engineer, who suggested lobbying state legislators for additional funds if unspent money from other projects could be reallocated.

A council member expressed disappointment over the increased costs but acknowledged the necessity of the infrastructure, emphasizing the high demand for bathrooms on the boardwalk. Further scrutiny of the budget revealed a cost of $7,000 for reusable fencing and traffic control expenses. It was clarified that the bid included various line items, and any reusable materials would be utilized where possible. The need to upgrade water and sewer services was highlighted as a significant cost driver, given the inadequacy of the original infrastructure for the new building’s requirements.

Additional complications arose from the need to elevate the building due to new DEP regulations, which now require a structure to be one foot plus four feet above the flood level. This change necessitated longer ramps and modifications to the existing beach ramp. Adjustments to the playground’s location were also discussed, with plans to move it slightly south and away from the boardwalk to maintain safety and accessibility.

The council also decided to eliminate one of the proposed ramps for economic reasons, resulting in a single ramp on the south side of the building. The design aims to minimize blind spots around the back of the facility, thereby enhancing safety. The Department of Public Works was mentioned as being involved in relocating fencing and the playground as part of the project.

Apart from the bathroom project, the meeting addressed other resolutions and community matters. A shared service agreement for leaf recycling with Wall Township was reviewed, with an emphasis on environmental considerations and cost-effectiveness. Another resolution involved renewing an agreement with Monmouth County for transportation services for seniors and individuals with disabilities. The council also discussed awarding a contract for improvements to Dempsey Park, funded entirely by grants, and the ability to transfer unspent appropriations from one fund to another as the fiscal year winds down.

During the public comment session, several participants expressed support for specific resolutions, notably praising the transportation agreement with Monmouth County. One commenter shared personal experiences with the service during the pandemic, highlighting its convenience and effectiveness in providing essential services.

The meeting also included a proposal to update terminology in an agreement with the Monmouth County Board of Chosen Freeholders, as the term “freeholder” is no longer in use. The council confirmed that the terminology had been updated to “county commissioners” in the revised resolution.

In addition to discussing resolutions and ordinances, the council took time to recognize the recent Veterans Day ceremony, which holds significant importance for the Belmar community, home to a large population of veterans. The council acknowledged the contributions of the school choir during the ceremony and the successful banner program initiated by the council president, which honors veterans with banners displayed throughout the town.

The Environmental Commission’s ongoing projects were also mentioned, including data collection on community energy usage as part of the community energy plan. The commission aims to conduct an audit for all municipal buildings to align future energy focus areas. The “Patchwork for Wildlife” initiative was highlighted, recognizing residents practicing sustainable lawn care. Upcoming meetings, including a joint session with the Shade Tree Commission, were announced for further community involvement.

Various community events were outlined, including Belmar Elementary School’s lip-sync contest and a winter band choir performance. The annual tree lighting ceremony is scheduled for December 4, along with a holiday market and a holiday food drive organized by the library to support local food pantries.

Council members raised concerns regarding the Fifth Avenue sewer project, which is expected to complete utility work by early December, with painting scheduled for the following spring. They also addressed the need for awareness regarding Code Blue alerts, which provide information about warming centers during extreme cold weather. The council acknowledged the challenges posed by rising food costs and government shutdowns, emphasizing the importance of local resources for community support.