The council’s decision to install a locking gate at the beach access point was driven by concerns raised over shark fishing practices, specifically chumming, which involves baiting water with fish parts to attract sharks. This practice has raised safety concerns among residents, particularly regarding its proximity to public access points used by swimmers. The council emphasized the importance of education and enforcement, directing public safety personnel to encourage compliance before resorting to more enforcement actions.

In conjunction with the gate, the council discussed the installation of barriers, known as Jersey barriers, which would be modified to include a sliding gate on a rail. This physical reinforcement aims to prevent individuals from crossing the dunes, aligning with state law and local ordinances. The council confirmed that the public safety department has the authority to enforce state statutes against illegal activities like chumming, should criminal violations be observed.

A resident, Charlotte Terry, addressed the council with her concerns about the safety implications of shark fishing and chumming near swimming areas, particularly for children. She questioned the legality of such practices and inquired about the council’s ability to amend local regulations, given that state law currently limits local control over fishing activities. Terry also expressed concern about unauthorized parking by fishermen, which she described as a nuisance to the neighborhood.

In response, the council acknowledged the challenges in distributing access codes to residents for the locked gate and the difficulties in implementing such a system. They clarified that the enforcement measures were intended to maintain the integrity of existing ordinances rather than change access rules. The ordinance restricting access after certain hours has been in place since 2002, and the new gate closure was seen as a means of enforcing established rules.

During the meeting, the council also addressed property tax reform, a topic generating considerable debate. A 38-member select committee, including State Representative Brackett, has been established to explore reform proposals, such as increasing the homestead exemption and altering assessment timeframes. The Vice Mayor expressed optimism about Brackett’s involvement, given his local government experience.

Concerns were raised about proposals that might eliminate foreclosures on homestead properties due to tax liens. The potential for these reforms to shift tax burdens rather than reduce them was discussed, along with the need for a detailed revenue impact analysis.

The meeting also featured a presentation by Kevin Robertson from Kimley Horn and Associates on stormwater compliance as part of the NPDES program. Robertson highlighted environmental implications of improper discharges and emphasized best management practices, urging public vigilance against illicit discharges into the stormwater system.

Further discussions included solid waste management ordinance updates, aligning local legislation with a new franchise agreement. The council approved Ordinance Number 580, transitioning to a non-ad valorem assessment system for solid waste, recycling, and yard waste management. They also passed Ordinance Number 581, establishing a non-ad valorem capital special assessment for septic to sewer requirements, providing payment options to ease residents’ financial burdens.

The meeting concluded with updates on code enforcement, public works, and public safety operations. The town treasurer reported preparations for the upcoming audit season, and the public safety department chief noted the return of repaired fire engines. The town manager shared a collaboration with the Rotary Club on a drowning prevention initiative and praised community volunteers for their beach cleanup efforts.