The council’s approval of a $100,000 local Recreation Improvement Grant application stood out as a development, aimed at replacing the outdated playground at Shore Drive and Golf Course Drive with an inclusive, ADA-compliant facility. The new playground project, estimated to cost $753,000, requires the city to contribute $188,000. The city manager stressed the importance of public support, inviting residents to a survey and a public meeting scheduled for January 30 to gather feedback on the playground’s design.

In addition to the playground project, the council addressed infrastructure issues. Resolution 2025 D31 authorized a change order for stormwater pump station reconstruction, resulting in a $29,700 decrease, while Resolution 2025 D32 approved a $15,750 contract for stormwater improvements on Bore Avenue. These measures are part of ongoing efforts to tackle flooding on the south end of the island. Despite acknowledging that complete flood elimination is challenging due to Brigantine’s barrier island geography, council members emphasized the need for improved drainage to mitigate the effects of heavy rains.

The meeting also featured a discussion on utility work, particularly a delayed project by South Jersey Gas along the Boulevard. Council members expressed dissatisfaction with repeated utility cuts after road paving and reiterated the importance of ensuring proper street restoration. The council vowed to remain vigilant in protecting the integrity of city streets against future utility disruptions.

Property tax assessments emerged as a contentious topic during public comments. A resident criticized the lack of a citywide reassessment since 2014, pointing to the discrepancies between property values and tax assessments. The resident highlighted the financial burden on some homeowners due to increases in property values, while others in similar properties faced lower taxes. The mayor responded, noting ongoing discussions with the county about a reassessment but explaining that such actions depend on state regulations. The council shared that previous assessments had led to numerous appeals, complicating tax revenue distribution, and suggested deferring a reassessment until the housing market stabilizes.

Amidst the tax concerns, the council addressed the issue of galvanized pipes, flagged as potential lead hazards by the state of New Jersey. The mayor assured the public that the city’s water is regularly tested and safe, despite the state-mandated removal of these pipes. Homeowners were advised to contact the director of Public Works for inquiries about water quality.

The meeting also included acknowledgments of community members and volunteers, notably highlighting efforts for the St. Patrick’s Day Parade and expressing gratitude towards the Public Works department for their response to recent snowstorms. Additionally, the council recognized outgoing City Clerk Lynn Sweeney for her long-standing service, praising her contributions in organizing food donations and leading community events.

Legal efforts against ocean wind projects were discussed, with the mayor mentioning collaborations with Congressman Van Drew and a coalition of municipalities opposing these developments. The mayor outlined the coalition’s growth and support from elected officials along the East Coast, emphasizing concerns about the projects’ long-term negative implications for local businesses and residents.

The council concluded with updates on affordable housing obligations following the Mount Laurel decision. The state mandates require Brigantine to provide housing access, with the current need estimated at 13 units and a prospective need of 19 units. The council is developing a plan to address these obligations and expressed a commitment to supporting local veterans through the construction of five affordable housing units.