Pleasantville City Council Moves Forward on Long-Stalled Pedestrian Bridge Project
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Meeting Type:
City Council
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Meeting Date:
02/21/2024
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Recording Published:
02/26/2024
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Duration:
75 Minutes
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State:
New Jersey
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County:
Atlantic County
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Towns:
Pleasantville
- Meeting Overview:
The Pleasantville City Council has taken a step toward realizing a long-awaited infrastructure project that promises to improve pedestrian connectivity in the city. During their meeting on January 21, 2024, the council focused on Resolution 29, which seeks to secure 100% funding for the pedestrian bridge project through a federal infrastructure grant. This development comes after over a decade of stalled progress, bringing renewed hope that the bridge will finally come to fruition.
This commitment was further highlighted by public comments on water-related concerns, with residents reporting significant flooding problems during high tides and storms, and the deteriorating condition of streets, including the presence of large potholes.
During the meeting, a resident detailed the recurrent flooding on their street and property, which occurs for up to five days around the full moon, causing damage and safety risks, including to the nearby marina. The resident’s appeal for assistance in managing water flow and street repairs was echoed by another resident who described the adverse effects of flooding on her property. Council members acknowledged these concerns and assured residents they would prioritize addressing these issues.
In a related matter, concerns were raised about the ecological impact of the mosquito control program and flooding in the Lake Bass area. A resident expressed apprehension about the potential ecological impact of the mosquito spraying program, prompting the council to review the inter-local service agreement with the county for mosquito control and consider the environmental implications.
The meeting also included a moment of reflection, with an invocation and a moment of silence for the ongoing conflict in Ukraine and a tragic incident involving two children in Florida. Following this, the council approved the promotion of several police officers, highlighting the city’s focus on public safety.
Public safety concerns also featured prominently during the public comment section, where a resident expressed frustration with drug-related activities and vandalism near her property. The lack of police intervention in these matters was a point of contention, with the resident urging for more law enforcement resources to combat these issues.
The council’s actions extended to various community initiatives. They discussed plans to upgrade parks and introduce flag football as a new recreational opportunity for youth. A request for information about a children’s fundraising initiative was addressed, and the council assured that details on upcoming events would be provided. Community appreciation for the Public Works department’s efforts in maintaining the retention pond and the responsiveness of the police department to safety concerns was also noted.
A council member raised concerns about the lack of transportation for high school sports teams, emphasizing the need to support student athletes. This prompted discussions on the importance of ensuring transportation access for these teams.
Throughout the meeting, the council members passed several resolutions and ordinances, including the approval of an ordinance to exceed the municipal budget appropriation limits and the establishment of a cap bank. They designated certain properties as areas in need of redevelopment and supported the suitability of a cannabis business.
Judy M. Ward
City Council Officials:
Ricky Cistrunk, James Barclay, Bertilio “Bert” Correa, Lawrence “Tony” Davenport, Joanne Famularo, Carla Thomas, Victor Carmona
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Meeting Type:
City Council
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Meeting Date:
02/21/2024
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Recording Published:
02/26/2024
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Duration:
75 Minutes
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Notability Score:
Routine
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State:
New Jersey
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County:
Atlantic County
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Towns:
Pleasantville
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