The meeting also provided an update on the anticipated cannabis revenue. The Chief Financial Officer reported the first receipt of sales tax from cannabis-related transactions to be approximately $45,000, with actual revenue at $97. A conservative estimate of $10,000 in annual revenue was projected, and further updates were promised as more data becomes available.

In addition to the drug-related discussions, the council addressed concerns over the Weiss Beckers project, with bids coming in over budget. Negotiations with contractors were planned to bring project costs in line with the budget. The Terrace project was also discussed.

The council approved several upcoming city events, including the Egg Harbor City M ver Easter egg hunt and the Christmas parade on Avenue. The Neighborhood Preservation Program (NPP) coordinator presented the 2024 implementation plan, which included funds for remodeling archway green, storefront projects, and completing the First Responder Park on Philadelphia Avenue.

Infrastructure projects remained a focus, with the council discussing the installation of tennis and pickleball courts through a cooperative agreement with New Jersey edge.net Incorporated. A grant application for this project has been submitted. Other financial matters included the approval of a resolution to refund property taxes due to a resident’s 100% disabled status, a street opening permit refund on Buffalo Avenue, and a building permit fee refund for the Sun Solar Incorporated project.

The council also passed a resolution to accept the 2024 Municipal Aerial Control Agreement and adopted Ordinance one of this year post a public hearing, which involved amending the general code of the city.

Councilwoman Anony highlighted the upcoming annual Crusaders football and cheer banquet, while Councilwoman Hessie called for improvements to the sound system of the Zoom meetings. Councilman Clark updated on a bedding and blanket fundraiser, and Councilman Timbers emphasized the need for more resources for the Code Department.

A point of debate arose regarding a cannabis cultivation operation. A community member voiced concerns about a potential site at the city offices, with the council clarifying that a boat building and cannabis cultivation business could not coexist without changes to the Redevelopment plan.

The council also expressed gratitude for the city employees’ dedication and the community’s support during challenging times for a city member. They acknowledged the importance of the updates and reports provided throughout the meeting.

The meeting began with the announcement of attendance, noting the absence of Mayor Galloway and Councilmen Wright and Dash. The minutes from the previous meeting were approved, and various committee reports were presented. The Finance and Redevelopment Committee announced an upcoming finance meeting, while the Public Works and Highway Committee reported on maintenance work. The Sustainable Committee discussed Arbor Day celebrations and the City Electric tree program.

The Property, Parks, and Playgrounds Committee talked about ADA-compliant decking and the work at Fran CERN field. Changes to noise ordinances and property maintenance were on the Ordinance Committee’s agenda, and the Aaron Haven Committee meeting was rescheduled for March 18.