A focal point of the meeting was the debate over the sale of a property that had been gifted to the town for specific social and educational uses. A resident, Mr. Bitnik, challenged the council’s decision to sell the property. Despite the council’s assurance that the sale adhered to the agreement, Mr. Bitnik warned of potential legal repercussions.

Mayor Timothy McDonald discussed a 30-year loan and referenced a 62,000 square foot complex project in Montgomery Township, emphasizing the necessity of community input in such developments. Barry Bender furthered the conversation on community needs by bringing attention to water-related issues affecting bayfront properties, focusing on the urgency to assist at-risk homeowners.

Financial stability was another significant topic, with the council choosing to table a project after reviewing unfavorable financial data. Mayor McDonald voiced concerns regarding future tax rates and emphasized the need for responsible town development. The council also presented a budgeting plan for a new municipal building and the possible relocation of veterans’ facilities.

During the public comment period, residents expressed their views on the council’s transparency and decision-making. Steve Barl and Joe Foli congratulated the new Mayor while advocating for improved communication and financial clarity. Dan Kinsky, a long-time resident, called for more detailed explanations and public hearings on the Municipal complex project.

In addition to these discussions, the council confirmed the 2024 budget meeting dates and times, settling on 5 PM for the initial meeting. They approved requests for community events, including signage for the Fish Hawks annual flea market and the use of the Deerhead Lake parking lot by the Girl Scouts for cookie sales. The resolutions passed included appeals from the tax assessor and a service charge for mailing tax sale notices. The council also adopted a cash management plan for 2024 and accepted the retirements of several municipal employees.

The interlocal service agreement with the county of Ocean for the child restraint program grant was authorized, alongside the cancellation of minor tax debit and credit balances and the refund of deposit monies. The council approved the payment of township bills and accepted various monthly reports. Additionally, the caucus meeting minutes of December 28th, 2023, and the Township meeting minutes of December 28th, 2023, and January 1st, 2024, were approved, along with raffle license applications for the Lacey Township High School booster Association.

The Mayor’s decision not to apply for state funding under the P3 litigation for an indoor recreation center was also a point of interest, with the budget constraints cited as the primary reason. The historical significance of the Charles A Smith Memorial Hall was also discussed, providing attendees with an overview of its conveyance to the township and its importance to the local heritage.