A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to the commission’s ongoing efforts to establish consistent communication with NJDEP. Members reported frustration due to high staff turnover at the department, which has hindered progress on several environmental enforcement actions and permit applications. A member recounted efforts to arrange a follow-up virtual meeting with NJDEP staff, noting previous attempts to connect had been unresponsive. A recent phone call to the NJDEP office finally resulted in a commitment from staff to inform the appropriate supervisor of the request for a meeting. This lack of consistent communication was highlighted as particularly problematic in cases involving violations, such as an incident where JCP&L was accused of dumping in the lake. Members stressed the need for collaboration with NJDEP.

The commission also addressed community concerns related to shoreline protection. Members encouraged the public to report illegal activities to the police for proper documentation and action.

In addition to dealing with state-level challenges, the commission celebrated a successful cleanup event that drew over 150 participants, including college students, to multiple locations such as Allenhurst, Sunset Lake, and Dake. Described as “stellar,” the event involved magnet fishing, where families found interesting metal items from the lake, and resulted in a truck filled with debris. This level of participation was unprecedented, with the official sign-in sheet recording 125 participants, although it was believed that the actual number was higher.

The commission also discussed the Clean Ocean Action initiative, which focuses on testing upstream waters and tributaries entering Deal Lake. A report presented during the meeting revealed elevated fecal coliform levels, consistent with past findings, and members emphasized the importance of identifying pollution sources. Specific locations, such as Harry Brook and the Little League Stadium, were mentioned as areas of concern, necessitating further investigation into potential stormwater and sewer system issues.

In terms of financial management, the commission reviewed its budget and expenditures for the upcoming year. There was concern about the financial status of the commission, with a report indicating the risk of running out of funds, as the balance for 2024 expenditures had become precariously close to $50,000. The commission unanimously approved the proposed budget and assessments for 2025, with members from various towns, including Asbury Park and Ocean, supporting the decision. Insurance costs were also discussed, with uncertainty about upcoming liability insurance charges. The commission recognized successful participation in the Group Insurance Fund (GIF) and acknowledged Ocean T and Intera for their efforts in managing these insurance matters.

In a lighter moment, a commissioner shared a humorous anecdote about a gift related to the commission’s branding, specifically coasters with a misprinted latitude. Corrections were made, and the reprinted items were shared with commission members as a gesture of goodwill. On a more somber note, reflections on the year’s challenges were shared, with gratitude expressed towards staff for their hard work amidst difficulties, particularly with state-level scrutiny and grant-related issues.

The meeting also covered efforts to engage with local residents regarding the impact of their actions on the lake and the ocean. Suggestions were made to formalize communication with local towns about landscaping and construction projects near the lakefront. Public comments included observations of bald eagles near the lake, seen as a positive sign for the local ecosystem due to their presence during colder months.