The council dedicated a substantial portion of the meeting to discussing a resolution opposing the proposed electric rate increase by the local utility company. The proposed hike includes an initial 17.23% increase, with the potential for an additional 8% increase in April 2025. The council underscored the necessity of pushing back against these increases, which they believe will strain family budgets. The resolution authorizes the Township Clerk to forward the council’s opposition to various state representatives and regulatory bodies to advocate on behalf of residents. One council member expressed the irony of the state government encouraging increased reliance on electricity while rates continue to escalate, highlighting the financial strain on families who have depended on gas appliances. “You have to do what’s best financially… they just keep raising the electric up and up,” a council member remarked, summarizing the sentiment of many residents.

Turning to budget matters, the council reviewed Resolution Number 202-105, which pertains to the proposed 2025 municipal budget. A presentation revealed that the local tax rate would increase by 1.2 cents, down from an initial projection of 2.2 cents. The reduction was attributed to improved property valuations, anticipated revenue from occupancy taxes, and the introduction of local taxes on cannabis sales. The most notable expenditure increase was linked to salaries and wages, following the settlement of four union contracts in 2024. The township concluded 2024 with a surplus of $9.4 million, with $4.5 million allocated for the current year’s budget, and an expectation that the surplus will be replenished in coming years. The tax collection rate for 2024 stood at 99%, contributing to the surplus.

Input from the township auditor and the Chief Financial Officer (CFO) provided further insight. The CFO contextualized the budget within broader economic trends affecting New Jersey municipalities, noting significant price increases across various sectors. She emphasized that the budget reflects a sound fiscal strategy, balancing the need to address the fund balance while ensuring it would be replenished. Council members expressed confidence in the budget, acknowledging department efforts in its preparation.

Infrastructure projects also featured prominently in the meeting discussions. Approval was secured for addressing an emergency outfall situation at the Delaware Bay Pump Station near Ohio Avenue, where blockages had caused dune damage. A pre-construction meeting was scheduled for the upcoming Thursday, with work expected to commence on March 10th. Additional approvals for outfalls at St. John’s Avenue, Ocean Avenue, Francis Avenue, and Woodland Avenue are pending final approvals from entities including Section 103 and tribal authorities before bidding can proceed.

Further infrastructure discussions included updates on beach maintenance. Increased beach usage has led to a rise in sea debris, particularly along the North End from Bayside Village to Miami Avenue. The council received approval for a modification request to an existing beach maintenance permit, allowing for raking of designated areas while adhering to environmental protection restrictions. Areas included in the raking permit stretch from Shadeland Avenue to Wildwood Avenue, from Spruce Avenue to Ridgewood Avenue, and from New York Avenue to Ocean Avenue. In addition to mechanical raking, a clean communities project involving volunteers and staff is planned for areas that cannot be mechanically cleaned.

During the public comments section, a resident inquired about volunteer opportunities for beach clean-ups. The council responded by directing interested parties to the Recreation Department for information. A grant program is available for civic groups wishing to conduct beach clean-ups, with equipment such as gloves and trash bags provided for these efforts. A cleanup event organized by the Healthy Youth Coalition is scheduled for May 31st, taking place a week before the Escape the Cape event.

Attention also turned to community concerns, such as the recent graffiti issue at public bathrooms on Lincoln Boulevard. A council member commended the township’s efforts in cleaning the area and highlighted the role of community volunteers in maintaining public spaces. There was discussion of law enforcement efforts to address graffiti and related issues, with patrols seeking surveillance measures. The potential installation of cameras was considered, aligned with plans for renovations at Douglas Park along the Bayfront, although connectivity issues have previously hindered these installations.