The Brick Town Council convened to address multiple items on its agenda, but the meeting was particularly marked by the tribute to Council Vice President Andrea Zap. Mayor Lisa Crate and the council members took a moment to recognize Zap’s contributions over her 10 years of service, emphasizing her dedication to substance abuse education and prevention. Mayor Crate shared a touching personal story illustrating Zap’s impact on the community, and the council commemorated her service by proclaiming December 30th as Andrea Zap Day. Zap was also presented with a plaque and continued access to the city with her key, an honor reflecting her lasting influence.

Following the tribute, the council shifted focus to the consent agenda, which included a resolution to amend fees at Traders Cove Marina. The Council discussed aligning the marina’s fees with those of other local marinas, introducing new rates and discounts specifically for Brick residents. This resolution was part of a broader discussion on budget transfers and trust funds that the council addressed with detailed explanations for each resolution item.

Another resolution of significance involved authorizing the award of a contract for the demolition of a property.

Further agreements with Ocean County were approved, covering services that included health benefits and Cobra insurance. The renewal of motor vehicle sale licenses and towing licenses for the upcoming year was also on the agenda. The council wrapped up the consent agenda by approving tax exemptions and deductions, reflecting its ongoing focus on fiscal management and support for eligible residents.

One of the ordinances brought before the Council was the second reading of a proposal to establish a daily parking discount for senior citizens at Ocean Beaches parking lots. The ordinance, recommended by the council’s recreation committee, aimed to provide seniors with a discounted rate of $1 per day for beach parking, purchasable at the beach upon showing proper identification.

During the public comments portion of the meeting, a resident raised concerns about air pollution from vehicles and the impact of the Garden State Parkway on the Brick community. The resident also spoke on the perceived lack of support for various health issues.