Long Branch City Council Advances Pier Reconstruction with State Grant
- Meeting Overview:
At the recent Long Branch City Council meeting, a development was announced regarding the construction of a new fishing and pedestrian pier, thanks to a substantial state grant. Mayor John Pallone revealed that the city received a $3.25 million grant from the state Boardwalk Preservation Fund, which will enable the revitalization of a historic Long Branch landmark. The pier, envisioned to be approximately 500 feet long, is set to be fully ADA accessible and will be located along the right-of-way next to the L Street beach. The project commencement is slated for the year 2025, with more details to be released in the coming months.
Additionally, the council approved an ordinance concerning parking regulations. Ordinance 06-24, which was introduced at a previous meeting, designates no parking at any time on the east side of Westwood Avenue, beginning at the northeast corner apex of Westwood and Willow Avenues and extending north to 191.
During the public comment portion, residents voiced concerns about various issues. One resident, Bernardine Brownridge, raised environmental concerns related to the Branchport Creek area, specifically overdevelopment and access to Berdan Place. Another resident, identified as Vinon Leaport, criticized the lack of transparency in the design and funding of the pier project, questioning the expenditure of funds and comparing it to cheaper alternatives.
A contentious exchange also unfolded concerning the handling of an animal abuse case and the non-renewal of an SPCA contract, with a member of the public challenging Councilman Bill Dangler regarding the council’s role in criminal matters and the police department’s duties.
The council also acknowledged the importance of environmental concerns, as mentioned by a resident during the public session. Additionally, the council expressed gratitude towards the public works department for their efforts during snow events and commended the public safety director and departments for keeping the community safe.
In further proceedings, the council took actions on routine matters, such as the approval of the transfer of taxi licenses and the passage of resolutions on a consent agenda without changes.
The meeting concluded with remarks from council members, including a commendation from Councilman Mario Vieira for the public works and police departments, and a mention from Councilwoman Dr. Anita Voogt, who expressed her appreciation for environmental advocacy by the public. Councilwoman Rose Widdis thanked attendees and encouraged future community engagement.
John Pallone
City Council Officials:
Rose Widdis, Dr. Mary Jane Celli, Bill Dangler, Mario Vieira, Dr. Anita Voogt
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Meeting Type:
City Council
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Committee:
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Meeting Date:
02/28/2024
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Recording Published:
02/28/2024
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Duration:
17 Minutes
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Notability Score:
Routine
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State:
New Jersey
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County:
Monmouth County
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Towns:
Long Branch
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