The meeting’s most pressing topic was the transparency of the borough’s budgeting process and the administration’s handling of financial details. Residents questioned the accuracy of financial numbers and the absence of detailed budget information. Councilman John Weber and others expressed difficulty in understanding the budget documents provided, emphasizing the need for clarity on revenue numbers and detailed line items in Excel. The CFO acknowledged challenges in reconciling different sets of budget data, pointing to the importance of transparency in the budgeting process. Council members highlighted the importance of department heads receiving budget information in a timely manner, stressing the need for clear communication and the importance of showing the work behind the budget numbers.

Another focal point of the meeting was the introduction of an ordinance to establish a Charter Study Commission. Councilman Weber conveyed that the ordinance would authorize, not compel, action towards examining the borough’s form of government. The council voted on the ordinance, with Mayor Larry Fox voting against it. This sparked discussions on the current focus of the community and the potential benefits of government reform.

Residents also voiced concerns over the handling of public questions and comments, particularly regarding the absence of a tree on Main Street and the resolution surrounding it. Mayor Fox was noted for emphasizing constructive engagement and efficient management of council meetings to address the excessive duration of sessions compared to other towns in Mammoth County.

The public hearing on Ordinance 20245 proceeded without questions, and discussions about the hiring of seasonal employees clarified that no listed individuals were related to town employees. The council debated whether to charge organizations for using the park for events, ultimately voting to revise the resolution to require a one-time fee.

In terms of community events and activities, the council approved a resolution for various events throughout 2024, including cash raffles and charity walks. Some disagreement arose regarding the timing of tree planting along Main Street and the approval of a Fresh Markets New Jersey event in the park.

During public comments, residents expressed disappointment over the fees charged for certain events and called for a reevaluation. Concerns were also raised about the $2.4 million grant, planning and zoning board meeting frequencies, and the need for a forensic investigation into town finances. Questions about the tax levy versus municipal tax increase and transparency in revenue and expenses for the Recreation Department were brought forward.

The meeting addressed infrastructure projects, including the North side promenade building, Main Street, and Sylvan Lake. The Deputy Coordinator of OEM for Bradley Beach highlighted a resolution from Neptune City for a regional flood study, urging consideration for Bradley Beach.

Public safety was also a topic of discussion, with the police report detailing arrests and initiatives, while the fire department’s operational report covered their responses and community involvement. The closure of the local food pantry was addressed, with plans to meet with agencies for interim solutions.