The new ordinance mandates that both contractors and homeowners undertaking renovations implement measures to capture dust and prevent plastic pollution. The regulation emphasizes enclosed areas for cutting materials and imposes fines for violations, mirroring existing littering penalties.

The council discussed leveraging the city’s website, newsletters, and social media channels to raise awareness and ensure compliance. The unanimous roll call vote for the ordinance’s introduction reflected broad support within the council.

In addition to the environmental ordinance, the council addressed various other matters. The meeting featured several unanimous appointments within the police department. Mark Supren was appointed as Police Lieutenant, Lindo C as Police Sergeant, and L. Strua as Police Chaplain, effective September 1, 2024. The historical significance of L. Strua’s appointment as the first female sergeant in the department was acknowledged during the ceremony, which saw the officers take their oaths of office in the presence of their families.

The council also introduced an ordinance concerning the increase in towing fees to align with local standards. Although the ordinance was opened for public hearing, no comments were made, leading to its closure and adoption.

Another notable discussion centered on the proposed state coastal rules by the Department of Environmental Protection, which faced opposition from the council. Commissioner Landgraf criticized the rules, enacted by executive order, for relying on outdated data and imposing significant restrictions on development in barrier island communities. He expressed concerns about the financial burden on municipalities and the feasibility of compliance, especially regarding requirements like elevated parking lots in flood-prone areas. Landgraf cited a lack of responsiveness from state officials and emphasized the need for a collaborative approach to address coastal development and environmental protection. He pointed out that municipalities on both the Atlantic and Cape May sides were united in their opposition to the proposed rules, highlighting discrepancies in the state’s projections about sea level rise.

The council also moved forward with several resolutions impacting community events and infrastructure. Resolution 256 addressed the closing of Go Ramp and the establishment of no-parking zones for the American Cancer Society event. The council approved a three-year agreement with the American Cancer Society for a fundraising event, detailing dates for 2025, 2026, and 2027. Additionally, the Dinner with Maria event, scheduled for September 29, had sold out.

Resolution 270 authorized design and construction management services for a sewer main replacement project, emphasizing the need to expedite the bidding and contracting processes. Another resolution involved the procurement of Boardwalk decking, with a budget of $4,000 allocated for bid document preparation, advertising, and contract recommendations.

The council also discussed updates on municipal projects. A pedestrian-only crossing signal on Little Rock Avenue is set to become operational within a few weeks. The completion of the Derby and Cornwall piling trail was reported to have finished ahead of schedule. Plans for the Down Beach Seafood Festival, held from September 11 to 17, were outlined, with the event serving as a community gathering and a training exercise for emergency services.

Public comments included a suggestion from Sher Lan Feld to appoint a city champion for overseeing the enforcement of the new environmental ordinance and providing resources for residents to report violations. Feld emphasized the need for community education and structured enforcement to ensure the ordinance’s success.