0:00The council’s primary focus centered on the proposed ordinance for 5G towers. The ordinance, crafted in response to federal and FCC guidelines, seeks to prevent telecommunications companies from installing equipment at their discretion. It outlines a preference for collocating new 5G equipment on existing poles, with a maximum pole height set at 35 feet or 110% of the height of nearby poles, whichever is lower. Additionally, new poles cannot be erected within 500 feet of another small wireless facility pole and must be situated away from residences, schools, and churches to minimize visual impact.

Debate ensued over the ordinance’s application to businesses with residential units above them, as some council members expressed concerns about potentially adverse effects on such properties. There was a suggestion to introduce flexibility in the ordinance to better accommodate urban settings. The council also discussed the potential legal implications of prohibiting installations in residential zones, recognizing that such restrictions might contravene federal laws. The council weighed the ordinance’s intent to shield neighborhoods from unsightly installations against the legal necessity to facilitate service provision.

The ordinance also mandates that providers must notify the borough of any abandoned communication facilities within 60 days. A permit process was introduced, requiring providers to obtain a siting permit and enter into a right-of-way use agreement. The council deliberated on the aesthetic implications of these installations, considering maintenance and durability standards for the poles. The ordinance’s refinement is anticipated before a first reading at the next meeting.

19:08In other discussions, the Mayor confirmed that the shared service agreement with Belmar’s emergency medical services would continue, emphasizing its critical role in providing timely aid to Lake Como residents. He praised the EMS personnel for their integration into the community and noted that the response time, under three minutes, exceeds both state and national standards. Financial recalculations will lead to a decrease in Lake Como’s contribution to the shared service, reversing a previous increase.

Public comments brought attention to the borough’s tax rates. A resident queried a reported 9% tax hike, questioning its rationale amidst contributions from condominium developments and retail spaces. The Mayor responded that although property assessments have increased, the council has managed to lower the tax rate over the past twelve years. However, he acknowledged the disparity between property assessments and tax rates compared to neighboring municipalities, noting that assessment processes are largely outside the council’s control.

The council also addressed Lake Como’s status as a sanctuary municipality. A resident inquired if the borough still held this designation. The Mayor clarified that while New Jersey is a sanctuary state, municipalities can choose to revoke this status. Lake Como has opted to maintain it, as the Mayor argued that changing the status would not affect the borough’s responsibilities or benefits from the state, and might limit potential state aid.

Additionally, the council discussed the establishment of pickleball courts and dog parks, with a council member noting that all plans were progressing smoothly. The Mayor announced that the Lake Board of Education would not raise the tax levy, maintaining a flat tax rate despite rising health insurance costs and tuition fees. A reduction in student enrollment for Belmar and Manasquan schools contributed to this fiscal stability.

The meeting transitioned to a consent agenda, where a raffle license and a resolution were approved without issue. The council introduced ordinances amending park regulations related to fees for using Little League fields, exempting Lake Como residents while charging non-residents and for-profit organizations. The competitiveness of these fees with neighboring municipalities was discussed. An ordinance concerning the removal of a handicapped parking spot was also introduced due to a resident’s departure, with the Mayor explaining the necessity of maintaining such ordinances based on current residency.