0:03A passionate presentation for Black History Month by Salam Muhammad Baker, a representative from Long Branch Middle School, brought attention to the systemic racism affecting educational resources. Baker shared personal experiences, highlighting the disparities in funding and support between his underfunded school and those in wealthier neighborhoods. He invoked Langston Hughes’ poem “Mother to Son” to draw parallels between the struggles of African Americans and the inequities in the education system, urging the council and the public to work towards rectifying these issues. The council acknowledged February as Black History Month. Council members later expressed their admiration for a young student from the Long Branch School Board, who contributed to the Black History Month presentation.

19:49The meeting also focused on the absence of Christmas displays in West End Park, an issue raised by residents who voiced their dissatisfaction. One resident described the absence as “completely shameful,” directing strong criticism toward Mr. Vieira, questioning his competence in addressing community concerns. The resident went as far as to label the local government as “junk government,” suggesting that it might be time for Mr. Vieira to step down. This sentiment was echoed by Vincent Lor, who questioned the council’s priorities by contrasting the lack of Christmas decorations with the recent Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion event. Despite these criticisms, Mr. Vieira responded dismissively, showing no inclination to engage with the concerns raised.

The discussion on parking regulations became another focal point when Christopher Witter, a 30-year resident of Long Branch, shared his ordeal with parking enforcement. Witter recounted receiving a ticket for parking his truck on his own grass, a practice he had maintained for 13 years without incident. After receiving a notice for a mandatory court appearance, he made adjustments by placing stones next to his driveway to avoid parking on grass. Despite these efforts and a judge acknowledging his compliance, Witter continued to receive daily citations, which he described as harassment by the police. He raised questions about the cost to the town for this persistent enforcement and suggested that warnings be issued prior to ticketing. Witter emphasized the inconsistency in enforcement, stating, “if this is an ordinance it should be enforced upon everybody.” Council members suggested further discussion with Witter after the meeting.

0:03In addition to these contentious topics, the council addressed Ordinance 02-2, a bond ordinance concerning various capital acquisitions and improvements in Long Branch, totaling $11,421,681. This ordinance included plans for the renovation and construction of the Health and Technology Center, renovations at City Central Park, and the acquisition of properties on Morris Avenue and Westwood Avenue. Resident Vincent Lor raised questions about the useful life estimates for these projects and the status of a significant grant from the Department of Housing and Urban Development. The council closed the public hearing and adopted the ordinance unanimously.

19:49Mayor John Pallone made several announcements, including the grand reopening of the main library after a 22-month closure. He highlighted the library’s historical significance as one of the original Carnegie libraries and invited the public to the reopening event. Additionally, the mayor announced the return of the Hometown Heroes Banner program and the upcoming Long Branch Disability Resource Fair scheduled for May 3. The meeting concluded with Councilman Dangler and others expressing appreciation for community engagement and partnerships with the school system.