1:39:10The meeting commenced with discussions on Cape May’s ongoing infrastructure renaissance. A council member reported that the city had made strides in enhancing sustainability, earning the title of “first place in the state for cities under 5,000 in population for sustainability.” Notable achievements include the introduction of a fuel-efficient city vehicle fleet and the installation of solar panels at City Hall. Ongoing projects like the transformation of the AM Church into a theater and community space, repairs to City Hall, and the construction of a new electric substation, demonstrate Cape May’s focus on improving infrastructure resilience, particularly against storm-related disruptions.

The council also addressed the city’s financial health, noting a substantial surplus increase in the general operating fund from $4.5 million to over $15 million. This financial stability has enabled the city to maintain zero tax increases over the past five years, with plans to extend this streak. Upcoming projects include a $6.7 million grant aimed at preserving the Promenade, enhancing ADA accessibility, and the much-anticipated opening of a new community center at the former library site.

1:57:30A particularly issue discussed was Cape May’s need for affordable housing. The mayor emphasized the importance of affordable living options for the city’s essential workers, including teachers and first responders. The city has received preliminary approval for land acquisition to construct a new police station on Lafayette Street Park. This site will also preserve adjacent environmentally sensitive land. The mayor underscored the urgency of affordable housing, citing over 800 applications for just two affordable housing units completed the previous year.

1:39:10Public safety improvements were also a focal point, with the addition of more full-time firefighters and police officers and the construction of a new firehouse. The “Getting the Lead Out” task force has reportedly succeeded in reducing non-lead pipes in the city by 90%.

2:21:26As the meeting progressed, zoning issues in the Village Green section were discussed. Concerns about zoning regulations were addressed, and the establishment of a “land use and development work group” was proposed to improve quality of life in Cape May City. This initiative follows a successful collaboration on the artificial turf ordinance last year.

1:39:10In the realm of environmental responsibility, the council member highlighted a partnership with Columbia University to study the hydrology of Cape May Island, which will inform the development of a water desalination plant. This project is a top priority to ensure a reliable water supply for the city. The council also discussed a resolution allowing high school students to conduct a water usage survey to engage the community in sustainable practices.

2:21:26The meeting further covered budget presentations, with Carolyn Zabowski from the Washington Street Mall Management Company Board of Trustees outlining the proposed budget for the business improvement district. Additionally, the introduction of several ordinances, including amendments to fire prevention bureau fees and regulations, was noted, with an emphasis on ensuring compliance to maintain cleanliness and air quality during construction.

1:57:30Public comments raised questions about the hiring of multiple engineers despite the recent appointment of a new city engineer. The city manager clarified the need for specialized engineers for various projects, such as the seawall design and the desalination plant. Concerns about project management were addressed, with assurances of efficient oversight without compromising on project scope.