The council’s discussion of Ordinance 1422, which aims to revamp the borough’s flood prevention regulations, was a paramount issue at the meeting. Ordinance 1423, which pertains to the amendment of land development regulations concerning fees, also progressed with full council support. The second reading for this ordinance is scheduled for the same date.

In a notable moment during the public comments, Jack Joansee, a borough resident, shared a personal account that spotlighted the challenges faced by individuals with special needs during emergencies such as power outages. Joansee’s call for the creation of a special needs registry and task force resonated with the council and Mayor Don Cabrera. In response, Mayor Cabrera pointed to available emergency charging facilities as an immediate resource and encouraged collaboration with the EMS to enhance support for vulnerable residents.

Financial matters also prominently featured in the meeting, with the council approving the annual sewer rates and minimum charges for the year 2024. The authorization of payment for bills further illustrated the routine fiscal responsibilities managed by the council. Commissioner Joseph Franco Jr. brought attention to fiscal opportunities and concerns tied to the potential sale of a municipal lot. His suggestion to sell the property for residential development was rooted in the prospect of generating tax revenue. Franco Jr. also initiated a conversation on the impact of capital gains tax that such a sale might entail.

Commissioner Joseph M. Schiff contributed to the land sale discussion with a forward-thinking proposal to allocate sale proceeds for a specific purpose. The council weighed selling options, considering an open bid or public auction, and stressed the need for widespread advertising to draw in potential buyers.

The meeting also tackled the topic of parking regulations. A proposed ordinance for pay-to-park regulations included the integration of web-based payment systems and the introduction of regulations for seasonal permits, which covered aspects such as transferability and purchase limitations. The council appeared receptive to these changes, particularly with respect to the time limits for metered parking.

Dredging efforts, repairs to the Wildwood Crest Pier roof, and the pool flat roof funding were among the subjects discussed. The Bayside outfalls project, currently in the design phase, was awaiting construction bids in the spring. Additionally, the Washington SE VIW report was mentioned, with further details anticipated.

Commissioner Joseph Franco Jr. took a moment to commend the Public Works department for its role in advancing the beach patrol building project. As the meeting drew to a close, Mayor Don Cabrera offered a reminder of the upcoming Valentine’s Day, and the council mutually agreed to adjourn.