The financial revelations took center stage during the meeting as discussions unfolded about the $700,000 discovered in a current fund. This sum, which should have been allocated to the beach utility fund, originated from beach badge sales during peak summer months. The confusion regarding its allocation prompted concerns about past financial procedures and the borough’s financial management. A council member clarified that although the funds were always part of the accounts, they had not been properly reconciled due to a transition between banking institutions from PNC Bank to Providence Bank, which left some accounts open with residual balances. The previous administration’s oversight in recognizing these funds under the new financial systems had led to misunderstandings about their status.

Residents expressed their concerns about the lack of transparency and accountability in financial management, questioning the rationale behind maintaining numerous bank accounts that complicated financial oversight. The council assured the public that steps were being taken to tighten financial controls and reporting processes to prevent similar issues in the future. Efforts to consolidate outdated accounts and improve financial transparency were highlighted, with promises to keep the public informed.

Additional financial topics included the borough’s incurrence of unnecessary banking fees related to analytic programs, which were deemed redundant given the accounts’ zero balances. These fees, ranging from $1,500 to $3,000 monthly, were identified as potential candidates for refunds. The council acknowledged the need for a review of financial dealings and emphasized the importance of improved financial controls and oversight.

Amidst these financial discussions, the council also introduced several ordinances and resolutions aimed at addressing community needs. A notable ordinance introduced sought to amend the borough’s traffic ordinances concerning employee parking. The proposed changes would restrict the employee parking lot during business hours to alleviate parking issues caused by outside visitors. Signage and a grace period for enforcement were discussed as measures to ease the transition for habitual parkers. Another ordinance concerning military leave policies was introduced.

In terms of community initiatives, the council issued several proclamations recognizing contributions and events. A proclamation for LGBTQ+ Pride Month declared June 2025 as Pride Month in Bradley Beach, underscoring the importance of visibility, dignity, and equal rights for LGBTQ+ individuals. The council called upon residents to embrace these principles and combat prejudice, with an invitation to participate in the upcoming Pride Parade in Asbury Park.

The meeting also featured a proclamation honoring Hannah Marcus on her 100th birthday, recognizing her family’s contributions to the community and declaring May 15, 2025, as Hannah Marcus Day. This was followed by a proclamation for Emergency Medical Services Week, emphasizing the critical role of first responders in public health and safety.

The meeting shed light on forthcoming community projects, including the demolition of a church and parsonage building, slated to begin in June, contingent on coordination with the demolition company. Concerns about potential wildlife, such as bats and rodents residing in the buildings, were addressed, with a strategy being developed to manage the situation in collaboration with the Department of Public Works.

Additionally, capital projects were discussed, with plans for roof repairs at the police station, the purchase of a new public safety vehicle, and street light repairs. These projects would be funded by the capital improvement fund rather than general operations, with some projects potentially covered through cash payments.

The council also announced upcoming events and activities, notably around Memorial Day weekend. A parade was scheduled for May 24th, followed by a ceremony honoring fallen heroes on May 26th in Riley Park. The unveiling of a new Fallen Heroes Memorial Monument was planned, commemorating local veterans, including John A. Quinland from Afghanistan. The council highlighted accessibility improvements to the beach, including wheelchair access and new showers and Moby mats at handicapped beaches.

The meeting concluded with the introduction of resolutions and the approval of cooperative pricing agreements aimed at cost-saving measures. The council’s efforts to modernize borough services, including transitioning to credit card payments at Borough Hall, were also noted, with humor about “dragging Bradley Beach into the 20th century.”