The council meeting began with Councilwoman Caitlin Donovan raising inquiries about the ongoing infrastructure work on Fifth Avenue. A letter had been prepared to inform property owners about the project, which was set to include roadway resurfacing, utility infrastructure replacement, and storm drainage upgrades. This project was partly funded by a New Jersey Department of Transportation municipal aid road improvement grant, with work scheduled to commence around September 15, 2025. Residents would receive updates via the borough’s website and direct communication.

Another major topic was the council’s unanimous approval of several ordinances related to affordable housing. Ordinance 202521, which approves a long-term tax exemption and authorizes a financial agreement, was introduced and received unanimous approval. Additionally, Ordinance 202510, concerning amendments to the affordable housing mandatory set-aside requirement, was reintroduced following revisions and approved. This ordinance aimed to refine the requirements for developers to include affordable units in their projects.

Ordinance 202511, which created an overlay district in the zoning regulations, prompted discussion. The borough planner presented a map illustrating the proposed overlay zone encompassing properties along Main Street. This overlay allowed for mixed-use development, providing opportunities for affordable housing while maintaining underlying zoning provisions. Questions arose regarding the differences between the original zoning and the overlay, specifically regarding bulk, height, and use provisions. The planner clarified that the overlay would allow developments not previously permitted under original zoning, offering developers additional options.

The meeting also addressed ordinance 202519, which concerned affordable housing program purposes and procedures. During the public hearing, a resident expressed concerns about the ordinance’s review timeline. Another attendee criticized changes in the ordinance’s definitions, particularly the introduction of “very low-income households,” which he argued altered the legislation’s original intent. A council member countered these concerns, stating that the changes were statutory requirements consistent with the Fair Housing Act. Ultimately, the council decided to table the ordinance pending further review by the planning board.

In addition to these discussions, the council highlighted various community events. An upcoming tribute on September 11 was announced, featuring “the tribute in light” organized by Raising Four at 8:30 PM by the Howard Roland Pavilion. The San Gennaro Festival was scheduled, with proceeds from a spaghetti dinner supporting the Belmar Elementary PTO. Other events included a performance by Pat Rody, a celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month, and the New Jersey Run for the Fallen on September 28.

The council expressed gratitude for community involvement in recent events, including the Surfers Healing Autism Beach Bash and the Fallen Heroes 5K marathon. The Center Square thrift store celebrated its 10th anniversary, with all proceeds supporting a center in Asbury addressing homelessness and food insecurity. A council member shared their experience handing out water during the Belmar 5 event, thanking the DPW team for their support.

In further developments, the Belmar Housing Authority reported that a bid for facade repairs would soon be published, with the waitlist for housing remaining open until September 19. An annual 9/11 ceremony was also announced, featuring a dove release and various speakers, continuing the tradition of remembrance within the community.

The meeting concluded with the council preparing to enter a closed session to discuss pending litigation and affordable housing negotiations. A resolution was adopted to exclude the public from this portion of the meeting. The motion to adopt this resolution was passed unanimously.