The “Complete the Streets” initiative was a major focus, aiming to enhance infrastructure to better accommodate pedestrians, cyclists, and the environment alongside vehicles. Members discussed the challenges faced by residents, particularly in neighborhoods like Wayside and Wanessa, where crossing busy streets such as Sunset and Wikipo has become hazardous. The discussions emphasized the necessity of walkable streets, complete with sidewalks and bike lanes, to prevent pedestrians from being forced into the streets. One participant illustrated the urgency, stating, “You don’t or you die,” to highlight the dangers posed by incomplete walkways.

Concerns about local speed limits also surfaced, with a comparison to Asbury Park’s 25 miles per hour limit contrasting with Sunset Avenue’s 35 miles per hour limit. This speed discrepancy has led to speeding concerns, particularly for families with children and strollers.

Community advocacy for speed reductions and controls was discussed, with particular attention to cut-through traffic on Apple B Avenue, where accidents occur regularly. One participant noted the frequency of these incidents, stating, “There has been several at least one a year,” underscoring the need for enhanced street safety measures. Creative solutions from residents included using bright red fences as warnings to slow down and strategically placing large rocks to deter speeding cars.

Moving to environmental maintenance, the commission provided updates on the dredging of Fireman’s Pond. Efforts to dewater the pond revealed a malfunctioning schloo gate, with a wall constructed behind it leading to improper drainage and significant flooding during past rainstorms. The pond’s history was noted, with its construction dating back to the 1800s as a farm pond. The dredging project was reported to be progressing well, with the pond nearly fully dewatered. Members emphasized the importance of maintaining resident access and discussed removing overgrowth that had previously obstructed entry. There was also hope for installing a fountain to aerate the water, mirroring those in nearby areas.

Community engagement initiatives were also a highlight, with the Greenfest event being described as a success. The festival, integrated with the Fall Fest, saw a positive turnout, though concerns were raised about the logistical burden on recreational departments. The festival featured activities like a prize wheel promoting eco-friendly utensils, and ideas for future events were discussed. Suggestions included creating native gardens, rain gardens, and guided nature walks, with a “spooky tour” through local unpaved paths being a particularly well-received idea.

The commission also addressed the formation of a complete streets group in town. This initiative is expected to contribute points toward the town’s sustainable jersey certification. The scheduling of further discussions on this initiative was set for the upcoming third Tuesday of the month.

In addition, members discussed a referendum question in the ocean newsletter concerning the expansion of the zoning board and increasing meeting frequency to tackle a backlog of applications. Concerns were voiced about public awareness and the clarity of information provided to voters.

Finally, the meeting provided updates on a stakeholder meeting concerning a community management forestry plan. Participants emphasized tree preservation and encouraged community input, with a draft plan expected by October 27th and a follow-up meeting scheduled for November. The need for ongoing communication and public involvement in upcoming meetings and initiatives was reiterated, with a call for more presenters to broaden discussions and perspectives.