Representatives from the Surf Rider Foundation, including Bill Stum and Steve Jaeki, advocated for the ordinance, emphasizing its necessity in protecting both public health and the environment. Stum highlighted the success of similar ordinances in other municipalities, pointing out the potential health risks posed by dust emissions from construction sites. Jaeki provided additional insights, underscoring the detrimental effects observed in neighboring properties, gardens, and local ecosystems due to inadequate regulation of construction activities. The council anticipates further discussions on the ordinance.

In addition to the construction ordinance, the council debated the fairness and transparency of issuing a third retail cannabis license. The discussion was sparked by concerns over the process and criteria for new applications, especially after some previous applications had been declined. This raised questions about the consistency and fairness of the council’s licensing procedures, prompting a call for more oversight and adherence to established protocols.

Another topic was the authorization of an amendment to a memorandum of agreement with Mr. Keith Adams, a key figure in the city’s code enforcement office. The amendment outlines a salary increase for Adams, from $899 to $100,000 by the end of 2025, as the city moves to retain his expertise amid competitive job offers from the private sector. Adams has been tasked with additional responsibilities, notably in overseeing code enforcement, which underscores his value to the city despite the lack of immediate financial compensation for these new duties.

Infrastructure improvements were also on the agenda, with updates on ongoing road projects, such as the near-completion of Liverpool Avenue and the redesign of Buffalo Avenue. The completion of these projects is anticipated to enhance traffic flow and pedestrian safety, with Buffalo Avenue’s construction expected to commence in early 2025. Additionally, ADA improvements at the lake, funded by the Department of Community Affairs, are progressing towards enhancing accessibility to key recreational areas.

The council also discussed a solar field project. Ground-mount solar installations were confirmed as the consensus, with updates to the Request for Proposals slated for council authorization. Similarly, the Norleans Avenue project is on track, with final approvals expected by December. The bike path project, connecting the lake to the city, remains stalled due to environmental and regulatory challenges, though funding is secure.

Administrative updates included a resolution to incorporate an $850,000 grant into the budget for leaf management and a waiver of rental and cleaning fees for Lincoln Park, facilitating community outreach by South Jersey Family Medical Centers.

Public comments highlighted residents’ concerns over the council’s decision to proceed with additional retail establishments. Some community members felt blindsided by the decision, which seemed to contradict previous agreements limiting licenses. The council acknowledged the lack of prior knowledge regarding the developments, emphasizing the need for more transparent communication and reevaluation of the decision-making process for new retail licenses.