0:02Mayor Lisa Crate announced the designation of March as National Nutrition Month, emphasizing the importance of senior nutrition programs and the township’s partnership with Meals on Wheels of Ocean County. She highlighted the historical context of the Older Americans Act amendment in 1972, which established a national nutrition program for seniors. Last year, Meals on Wheels served nearly 260,000 meals to over 1,700 seniors, including 33,000 meals to residents of Brick Township. Mayor Crate stressed the increasing senior population’s needs and the importance of sustained support through federal, state, and local funding, along with volunteer efforts and donations.

Jim Cuson from Meals on Wheels expressed gratitude for Brick Township’s 25-year partnership, noting that the township’s funding has been crucial in reducing waiting lists for services, hiring drivers, purchasing vehicles, and providing additional food. Cuson highlighted the township’s senior outreach program, which conducts in-home eligibility assessments, saving Meals on Wheels approximately $60,000 annually. He underscored the importance of their services, noting that 68% of seniors served experience isolation, and daily contact with drivers provides essential social interaction and safety checks. These visits have occasionally led to emergency calls when seniors are found in distress, with local police and EMS departments playing a vital role in ensuring senior residents’ safety.

18:48As the meeting progressed, the council discussed the fiscal year 2025 budget proposals from various departments. The Division of Inspections presented its budget, with Mike Joci outlining the responsibilities of enforcing the New Jersey Uniform Construction Code. The division reported issuing 3,477 permits in 2024, generating approximately $2.4 million in revenue. Staffing details included a construction official, subcode officials, inspectors, and clerical support essential for processing permit applications and inspections.

The Division of Engineering presented its budget, focusing on maintaining public infrastructure, integrating it into private property, and monitoring construction projects. The division highlighted its role as the floodplain administrator, ensuring compliance with FEMA regulations, which helps reduce residents’ flood insurance premiums. The engineering team aims to expand the stormwater inspection system and develop a dredge material management plan in 2025.

34:15The Land Use Division, represented by Tara Paxton and Chris Romano, discussed its budget and achievements, including a $1.4 million Green Acres Program grant for purchasing open space properties. The division reported an increase in revenue from zoning permits, planning and zoning board fees, and affordable housing fees, totaling $667,000. The proposed operating budget for 2025 decreased by $37,100 due to changes in the Green Acres Grant for expert services. The division’s compliance with floodplain management regulations resulted in a 99% compliance rate, maintaining a 20% discount on insurance premiums for residents.

The meeting’s consent agenda included resolutions recognizing outstanding officers and authorizing bids for various township projects. Notably, Patrolman Chris DeMarco was named Officer of the Year, and Detective Benny Alvarado received the Lieutenant Thomas McNellis Award. Several resolutions authorized the receipt of bids for site improvements at the Brick Senior Center, bulkhead replacements, and public safety software maintenance contracts.

1:07:11Public questions and comments addressed various topics, including software used for dispatch operations and the potential for parking badges at Windward Beach. A resident suggested using commercial properties to store extra trailers and proposed a badge system for beach parking to generate revenue. The council noted that Windward Beach falls under Green Acres regulations, which restrict charging fees for park access.

The meeting concluded with council members expressing gratitude for department presentations and community initiatives. A collaborative project with STEM students from local high schools focused on recycling issues. The “Pickup Brick” initiative was announced to engage residents in trail maintenance, with the first event scheduled for March 22nd.