A central point of discussion was the suggestion to incorporate prayer at the beginning of council meetings, sparked by a resident’s request. The individual referenced a U.S. Supreme Court ruling that permits prayer at public meetings, arguing that a moment of silence does not sufficiently accommodate expressions of faith. They emphasized the personal importance of prayer, particularly for the safety of law enforcement officers during the holiday season, noting, “I always every day say a prayer for them particularly this time of year.”

In response, a council member clarified that while the Supreme Court ruling allows for prayer, it does not mandate it. The council’s decision to maintain a moment of silence aims to respect the diverse beliefs within the community. They stated, “The governing body has been brief… they understand that the Supreme Court only allows it; it doesn’t mandate it.” This explanation aimed to balance respect for a range of personal beliefs with the council’s practices. Despite this explanation, the initial speaker insisted on the need for a more inclusive approach that accommodates prayer.

The meeting also touched on expressions of gratitude and recognition for the mayor’s contributions to the town. Multiple attendees extended holiday greetings and congratulated a retiring member on their new role as a grandparent. One speaker humorously reflected on transitioning from retirement to a new council role, noting, “maybe I need my head examined because I’m doing the opposite.” Another participant corrected a previous comment about the mayor’s stature, asserting, “You’re a great mayor… you come from one of the greatest towns in this state,” highlighting community pride and respect for leadership.

A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to honoring Mark Dof for his over 20 years of service on the township committee. The mayor and deputy mayor praised his dedication, with the latter highlighting Dof’s resilience during challenges like Hurricane Sandy. Fellow council members shared personal anecdotes, emphasizing the camaraderie and mutual respect developed over years of collaboration. Mr. McDonald, reflecting on their professional relationship, mentioned enjoying Saturday morning discussions with Dof. Kennis appreciated Dof’s thoroughness in decision-making and his defense of the township during trying times.

Dof expressed gratitude for his tenure, describing it as a journey. He shared that his retirement was motivated by a desire to spend more time with family and pursue personal interests, such as camping. He humorously mentioned the “Tammy test,” explaining that if he couldn’t justify decisions to his wife, they weren’t sound ones. Dof conveyed pride in his service and expressed his intention to remain engaged in community activities, stating, “We are the envy of Ocean County.”

Routine business proceeded with the council approving various resolutions and ordinances without debate. The second reading of Ordinance 2024-26, setting salaries for non-bargaining employees, was swiftly adopted. Resolutions concerning financial appropriations, contracts for township amenities, and interlocal service agreements were also unanimously approved.

Financial reports from the municipal court and clerk’s office were presented, with collections totaling $9,575.187 and $595.126, respectively, for recent months. Discussions in the committee comments section included the Deputy Mayor’s gratitude for the Mayor’s advocacy for tourism, following his attendance at a state tourism conference. He emphasized the need to capture tourism revenue within Lacey, expressing a desire to draw funds currently spent in nearby areas like Seaside Heights and Atlantic City.

Public comments also included a debate about vegetation management in local parks, initiated by resident Laura Shchetilich. She challenged claims about ecological impacts and advocated for a meeting with vegetation experts to clarify environmental concerns. Another resident supported the council’s decision for uniform property maintenance, citing public health concerns regarding mosquito habitats.

Additionally, Linda Miller from Forked River advocated for a later meeting start time and the inclusion of prayer in meetings, noting that prior approval for the Lord’s Prayer had not been consistently implemented.