Brigantine Council Meeting Focuses on Erosion, Affordable Housing, and Environmental Concerns
- Meeting Overview:
The Brigantine City Council meeting on December 4th tackled several issues, including coastal erosion, affordable housing for veterans, and environmental concerns related to construction materials. Key ordinances were passed to address these matters, alongside discussions on local governance and community events.
42:27The most notable topic addressed during the meeting was the ongoing coastal erosion affecting Brigantine, particularly at the southern end of the island. The mayor reported dialogues with Congressman Van Drew’s office and the Army Corps of Engineers to address the need for raising the jetty’s height from its current seven feet to nine or ten feet. This measure aims to mitigate erosion exacerbated by recent storms, with additional legislation proposed to tackle similar issues across New Jersey. The council expressed optimism about collaborating with federal and state representatives, building on previous successful partnerships to safeguard Brigantine’s coastline.
06:50Affordable housing was another focal point, with the council approving Ordinance number 19 of 2024. This ordinance authorizes tax payments for five affordable housing projects dedicated to veterans.
07:54Environmental issues also took center stage as Margate resident and Margate Green Team member Sher Lilienfeld addressed the council. She raised concerns about non-biodegradable materials used in modern construction practices that contribute to pollution, specifically a phenomenon she termed “contractor snow”—microplastics that enter stormwater systems. Lilienfeld advocated for an ordinance requiring contractors to contain construction debris, citing successful implementations in neighboring municipalities. A council member expressed support, emphasizing the importance of raising awareness among contractors about the environmental impact of their materials.
The council also advanced Ordinance number 11 of 2024, establishing a new chapter in the city code focused on tree protection.
14:12In addition, several resolutions were passed to address infrastructure and budgetary concerns. Notably, Resolution 2024-25 approved bulkhead reconstruction at 14th Street, while other resolutions authorized contracts for bulkhead replacement projects at various locations, including a major contract at Pepper Cove. These measures are part of the city’s ongoing efforts to fortify its infrastructure against natural wear and environmental challenges.
16:20The meeting also saw the approval of a resolution concerning a property tax exemption for a 100% permanently disabled veteran. Additionally, the council accepted a federal grant for emergency management purposes.
00:28Community events were highlighted, with the mayor announcing a tree lighting ceremony at the fire department, a cherished local tradition featuring performances by school children. The mayor commended the Cultural Arts Commission for its upcoming schedule and acknowledged the Chamber of Commerce’s contributions to local events. The council also noted the start of holiday beach tag sales, which saw robust participation, and recognized the community garden committee’s successful sweet potato harvest.
The meeting concluded with public comments, where concerns about offshore wind projects and the seawall extension project were raised. Brooks Garrison underscored the importance of maintaining visual access to the beach, advocating for transparency and communication about the project’s status.
01:04:48The council also celebrated personal milestones within its administration, including the birth of a city hall staff member’s child and the upcoming retirement of city clerk Lyn Sweeney. Christine Murray was introduced as the incoming acting municipal clerk, with the mayor expressing confidence in her capabilities.
01:02:42Finally, the mayor addressed energy policy concerns, expressing skepticism about the economic benefits of offshore wind projects. He encouraged community engagement through upcoming initiatives and collection drives.
Vince Sera
City Council Officials:
Neil Kane (Councilman-At-Large), Michael Riordan (Councilman-At-Large), Karen Bew (Deputy Mayor – Ward 1), Paul Lettieri (Ward 2), Dennis Haney (Councilman – Ward 3), Mark Virgilio (Councilman – Ward 4)
-
Meeting Type:
City Council
-
Committee:
-
Meeting Date:
12/04/2024
-
Recording Published:
12/04/2024
-
Duration:
69 Minutes
-
Notability Score:
Routine
Receive debriefs about local meetings in your inbox weekly:
-
State:
New Jersey
-
County:
Atlantic County
-
Towns:
Brigantine
Recent Meetings Nearby:
- 07/28/2025
- 07/29/2025
- 40 Minutes
- 07/28/2025
- 07/28/2025
- 137 Minutes
- 07/28/2025
- 07/28/2025
- 18 Minutes