In the public comment segment, concerns about local infrastructure improvements were prominent. Carol Weaver raised traffic safety issues at Lagoon Drive and Jerome Avenue, advocating for making Lagoon Drive a one-way street due to what she described as “massive confusion” near the bridge toll booths. She highlighted the potential for accidents involving larger vehicles, such as tractor trailers, and urged the council to consider this change as part of a broader traffic management initiative. Another resident, Joel Narof, inquired about the decision-making process concerning the city’s purchase of a parking lot gas station. He questioned whether specific economic studies had been conducted to evaluate the project’s impact, especially in light of its financial and environmental implications. While council members discussed the general context of capital projects and their expected impacts, they noted that financial advisers assess the city’s budget in broad terms rather than focusing on individual projects. Narof continued to press for a detailed economic analysis to justify the acquisition.

The meeting further delved into various ongoing and upcoming city projects. An engineering report presented updates on several initiatives, including the dredging permit, which experienced delays due to a reassignment within the Department of Environmental Protection. A response was anticipated by the end of the week. The salt marsh restoration project was also progressing concurrently with the dredging permit. Updates on the Washington Avenue streetscape and Ventnor Avenue transit improvements were shared, with new plans under review by the steering committee. Additionally, the council discussed the Amherst Avenue resiliency project, noting that a pre-application for using Green Acres encumbered land for a pump station would be submitted.

Several projects were reported to be advancing, including the restroom project at the SIGM Complex, soon to be advertised for bids. The municipal building office improvements phase two were also slated for bidding shortly. The Public Works building project was on track, with expectations of going out to bid early in the year. The council received favorable news regarding a successful 2025 Municipal Aid Grant application for Atlantic Avenue, totaling $116,430, which supports an ongoing project related to bike lanes.

Personnel matters were addressed, particularly the ongoing interviews for the Chief Financial Officer position. Discussions also covered the Green Acres program concerning land transfer and outstanding responses from the agency. Furthermore, the council addressed compliance with state law regarding lead and galvanized water service line replacements, emphasizing the inventory process to identify such lines.

The meeting acknowledged community engagement and initiatives, including a successful paper shredding event and upcoming holiday decorations. The police chief reported on the department’s participation in the “Drive Sober, Get Pulled Over” campaign, supported by grant funding to enhance patrols during the holiday season. The chief also praised the Citizens Advisory Board for their active involvement. The beach tag program was briefly mentioned, with holiday beach tags set to be available soon. A food drive for the Community Food Bank was announced, encouraging residents to contribute canned goods and non-perishables. Chief Adams provided safety tips related to cooking and Thanksgiving, including plans for a video resource on deep frying turkeys. He also recapped a recent incident involving electric shock, commending the teamwork among emergency responders for a successful rescue.