The nomination of Captain Ronald was met with positive remarks, as council members provided background information on his law enforcement career and contribution to the community.

The discussion then shifted to a debate over the maintenance of trees on Main Street. The council deliberated over the current system where property owners are responsible for the trees, considering the possibility of the borough taking over this duty. The push for a more unified and aesthetically pleasing Main Street was a driving force behind the talks, with comparisons drawn to the orderly tree arrangements seen in European cities. The financial implications of such a transition were a point of contention, with suggestions including a small surcharge on Main Street property owners to fund the maintenance or seeking shared services from the county. This debate was further complicated by the acknowledgment of a recent grant for Main Street improvements that would involve planting additional trees, necessitating a resolution to the maintenance responsibility issue.

Residents also voiced their concerns during the public comments section, with some focusing on the broader implications for all trees in the town, not just those on Main Street, and others expressing reservations about the potential financial burden on the town’s budget. The need for more detailed information before approving the budget was a recurring theme, with specific requests for details about Department of Public Works (DPW) contracts and financial allocations.

Financial transparency was a prominent theme throughout the meeting, with residents and council members alike calling for more clarity in the borough’s financial dealings. This concern was highlighted by a resident’s comments regarding a recent financial settlement due to the town’s failure to supply opras (Open Public Records Act requests), which underscored the demand for increased openness in such matters. The discussion on financial transparency extended to the budget negotiations, with some residents feeling that the council should have a greater role in the process and be more accountable.

The council tackled ordinance amendments recommended by the Monmouth County planning board, focusing on minor edits related to stormwater management. The ordinance was introduced and adopted without much fanfare.

A significant topic of discussion was the adoption of an ordinance authorizing the borough clerk to place a question on the upcoming general election ballot regarding the establishment of a charter commission. The commission would be tasked with studying and potentially recommending changes to the borough’s form of government. Council members were divided on the matter, with differing opinions on the timing and necessity of the initiative. Despite opposition from one member, the ordinance was adopted.

The introduction of the 2024 budget also sparked debate among council members, with calls for more time to consult with the Chief Financial Officer (CFO) and a clearer understanding of the budget details before approval. The administration’s approach to the budget was criticized, and a need for a more effective strategy in the future was suggested. Although the budget was not approved, the council did agree to amend the resolution for daily and weekly beach badge prices, setting the daily price at $13 for 2024.

Other topics addressed included the authorization of a request for a general financial report for beach operations and a regional flood study. Questions were raised about the specifics of the funding requests, showing the council’s diligence in overseeing financial matters.

Reports from various commissions and departments punctuated the meeting, with the first aid squad, fire department, Fletcher Lake Commission, Environmental Commission, and police department sharing updates on their respective activities and achievements. The council also recognized a member for their service on the environmental commission.