During the meeting, the Commission highlighted the need for thorough investigation and remediation actions in response to an oil spill incident in Asbury. The cleaning of the stormwater management device (MTD) and the future impact of the new apartment construction, including concerns about oil tanks and contaminated soil, were central to the discussion. The potential strain on parking due to the increase in housing units was also noted as a point of concern.

The Commission’s deliberations included a financial component, specifically the receipt of a significant payment from the state. This payment was the culmination of an extensive process involving modifications to the budget and substantial paperwork. The necessity of a resolution for a final payment to Precise Construction for the Ocean Grove Wesley Lake rain garden and treewell bio retention system came under scrutiny, with questions raised about its rationale.

Further, the Commission addressed the upcoming grant and the related issues, such as insurance coverage and delays from the state of New Jersey in signing the agreement. The Deal Lake Watershed Alliance’s role in the project design was a subject of debate, with differing views on the level of their involvement.

Administrative matters were not left out of the agenda, with updates on green infrastructure projects, bonding processes, and reimbursement for completed work. The effectiveness of the proposed fountain installation in Allenhurst was discussed, as were strategies for shoreline protection, geese treatment, and weed management. The Commission debated the timing for requesting additional design time for these projects and the implications of not going to bid within a reduced timeline.

Environmental stewardship was brought to the forefront with talks of distributing a guide to new homeowners to promote awareness of the lake’s ecology. The potential 50th-anniversary celebration of the Commission was also on the agenda, with a suggestion to synchronize it with a lake cleanup event. There was a proposal for a Sunday cleanup to complement the regular Saturday activities, emphasizing community involvement in environmental preservation.

The meeting concluded with a decision to hold the next session as a workshop, potentially starting 20 minutes earlier. This format is anticipated to facilitate more in-depth discussions and planning for the Commission’s upcoming initiatives.