The most notable discussion at the meeting revolved around the introduction of the My Beach Mobile app, a digital solution designed to streamline the purchase and management of beach badges. Kevin Bright presented the app, emphasizing its potential to eliminate the need for physical badges and associated inconveniences. Bright detailed the app’s features, including fraud resistance mechanisms, a user-friendly interface, and offline capabilities. The app supports multiple badges on a single device, enabling easy management for families or groups. Bright assured the council that the app would impose no financial burden on the borough, as it generates revenue through small fees added to badge costs. The council deliberated on various aspects of the app, including security and verification processes, the fee structure, and its operational benefits.

A council member questioned the fees associated with using the app, leading to a clarification that a credit card processing fee of 2.9% plus 30 cents per transaction would apply, passed on to the customer. The vendor highlighted the app’s flexibility and customization options, noting its positive reception and significant sales since launch. Concerns about badge checkers verifying digital badge validity were addressed, with assurances that an animated QR code would prevent misuse. The council also explored potential challenges, such as adapting to cashless transactions and ensuring inclusivity for residents less comfortable with digital solutions.

The council’s focus then shifted to environmental and construction projects. A update was provided on the borough’s municipal public access plan, which is essential for compliance with state regulations. The plan outlines access to public facilities, including beaches and parks, and is updated every five years. The update included new GIS maps and detailed future improvements, such as ADA accessibility enhancements and restroom upgrades. The timeline for submitting the updated plan to the Department of Environmental Protection was also discussed, with the draft expected to be finalized shortly after the meeting.

In construction updates, the council discussed the temporary pedestrian access plan for the promenade extension. With a necessary permit received, the construction is set to begin over the summer. The plan ensures safe passage for beachgoers during construction, with a temporary walkway created adjacent to the sidewalk and beach. The project timeline was clarified, with construction potentially starting in late June or after the Fourth of July holiday. The council emphasized the project’s storm surge protection benefits, especially given the area’s history of damage during Hurricane Sandy. The discussion included plans for future expansion of the promenade, although these remain in preliminary stages.

Several ordinances were adopted during the meeting, including regulations on the placement of dumpsters and the control of bamboo and invasive plant species. The bamboo ordinance aligns with state legislation and requires compliance with new buffer zone definitions. Residents must remove bamboo from their properties, with fines and possible community service for non-compliance.

The meeting also addressed financial and community matters. The council approved resolutions for stormwater management assessments and recreational facility upgrades, collaborating with Avon on a grant application to address stormwater issues at Sil Lake. The council discussed the financial implications of transitioning to digital badges, highlighting the potential for reduced cash handling and improved security.

The administrator’s report covered improvements to Main Street, with old telephone poles removed for aesthetic and safety enhancements. The council president reported on tourism initiatives, highlighting upcoming events like the coastal kickoff soccer festival and the first annual Arts Fest. The Recreation Committee shared updates on Father’s Day events and summer camp programs, while the Fletcher Lake Commission continues its efforts to improve the lake’s ecosystem.

In other community news, the Bradley Beach Education Foundation awarded a scholarship to a graduating senior, and the police activity report detailed recent arrests and ongoing community efforts. The meeting concluded with public comments, addressing concerns about financial management, transparency, and communication regarding local projects and events.