A concern during the meeting was the high DEP permit fees, with discussions centering on seeking a reduction for municipalities. The steep cost of a D permit, amounting to $188,400 for a project, underscored the financial burden these fees place on local government budgets. In response, the council proposed advocating for lower fees to alleviate the impact on township finances.

Traffic and pedestrian safety garnered attention, with the council considering the implementation of flashing lights at the South Lincoln crosswalk. Additionally, the council received bids for the Deal Road sidewalks and the Roller Road pedestrian travel bikeway, both under budget, which suggested a positive outlook for these projects’ timely completion.

The placement and funding of a new dog park were also subjects of discussion. The council weighed various locations, including one near the entrance of Wells Park, and funding strategies, such as grants or the use of the open space fund. Concerns were raised about the park’s proximity to residential properties, and the council emphasized the importance of considering homeowner opinions in their decision-making.

Another topic was the recurring flooding in Deal Park, prompting the council to discuss the need for a joint meeting with Deal to address blocked water outflow and the proposal of a 24-inch outfall pipe to mitigate the issue. The council also explored the development of a new DPW facility on Cindy Lane, which involved determining the environmental status of the site and the subsequent cleanup and construction costs.

The council engaged in a debate about the approval of the capital budget, specifically the timing of tree clearing for a bridge project at Kramer Court. The potential for the bridge to affect the town’s budget and the logistics of its construction were also discussed.

The council addressed road maintenance, including the controversial topic of whether to make public the ranked list of roads for repair. While some council members were wary of public complaints, the discussion underscored the transparency versus practicality dilemma faced by local governments. Issues with the Toll Brothers enclave, such as curbing conditions, were also on the agenda, with the council determined to withhold project bonds until satisfaction with the resolution was achieved.

In addition to infrastructure and public safety, the council discussed the involvement in the upcoming 250th anniversary of the United States. Plans for a series of celebratory events, including a Gala, parade, and fireworks, were shared by the County Clerk and Commissioner Director, emphasizing the historical significance of Monmouth County and the importance of Ocean Township’s participation.

The meeting also touched on the forthcoming Miss New Jersey event and the town’s historical materials from the bicentennial. The council considered resolutions to support the 250th-anniversary commemorations and plans to acquire open space lands and increase open space tax money. The council voted on resolutions and vouchers and introduced an ordinance amending the comprehensive Land Development ordinance.

During the public comments section, a resident’s concern about a neighbor’s multiple code violations and transient tenants sparked a discussion on the legal process and fines for such infringements.