Dr. Felicia Stoler, a business applicant, brought to light a potential issue with another applicant’s lawyer reaching out to her, which sparked questions about collusion. The CEO of Blue Dream further underscored the need for a thorough investigation after alleging interference from a local official.

In addition to the cannabis licensing debate, the council also focused on the scheduling of meetings and events, the deer management plan, and the involvement of the state’s Division of Fish and Wildlife. The council made decisions on flag-raising dates for Italian American Heritage Month and rescheduled a June meeting to accommodate member availability.

Public participation took a front seat as a member of the community highlighted the lack of representation at the Shade Tree Commission meetings and the need for tree planting initiatives. The council showed a willingness to improve involvement by rotating members to participate in these meetings.

The discussion on the proposed dog park was significant as well, with council members weighing different locations due to environmental considerations and the impact on surrounding activities. The Deputy Director provided input on alternative sites.

The meeting also served as a platform for recognizing local achievements and upcoming events. The Mid Monmouth travel basketball team, specifically the third-grade girls’ team, was honored for their dedication and energy. The council also discussed the 2024 Municipal budget, expressing satisfaction with its stability and scheduling a public hearing for its adoption.

The Mayor’s Wellness Committee and a 5K race were mentioned. Council members shared updates on community events, such as the closure of the Ocean Township Library on Memorial Day and an I Spy contest.

The Consumer and Biz Expo set for June 11th, organized by the Greater Ocean Township Chamber of Commerce and the Ocean Industrial Park Association, was highlighted as an event for the community. The Mayor’s Wellness Committee’s focus on wellness issues was also noted, along with the council’s gratitude to the employees of the Township of Ocean for their service.

Resolutions and ordinances were addressed, including cap banking, licenses, and fees for indoor golf facilities, as well as electric bicycles and scooters. Concerns about road safety for cyclists and the need for infrastructure improvements were raised by a resident during public comments. The council acknowledged these concerns, stating the intent behind the ordinance was to address safety issues related to electric bicycles.

The meeting concluded with discussions on property maintenance, housing ordinances, and public inquiries regarding the Chestnut Avenue Footbridge and the deer population. The council committed to improving street cleanliness and commended the participation of Boy Scouts attending the meeting as part of their rank advancement.