Electric bikes, or e-bikes, on the splash pad emerged as a issue. Multiple residents expressed apprehension regarding the safety of having e-bikes in close proximity to an area that is heavily frequented by families and children. The speed at which e-bikes can travel was cited as a particular concern, given the potential for accidents in such a busy, pedestrian-centric space. The historical significance of the splash pad was also noted, with residents urging the council to consider the community’s attachment to the area when deliberating on the ordinance.

Despite the safety concerns, there were voices advocating for the benefits of e-bikes, especially for seniors and disabled individuals. The accessibility that e-bikes provide was highlighted as a counterpoint to the call for their banishment from the splash pad. Furthermore, the dangers of Ocean Avenue were brought up.

The discussion around the use of e-bikes underscored the broader theme of safety versus accessibility, with the council needing to balance these competing priorities. Residents suggested the enforcement of safety measures rather than a complete ban, while others were adamant about the need to restrict e-bikes to protect the community.

Concurrently, the potential conversion of a building to residential use sparked debate among residents and council members. The conversation touched on the economic viability of both residential and commercial use for the property, with the primary lien holder having an influence on the decision. Residents expressed differing opinions, some favoring a restaurant or retail space on the ground floor, which could potentially enhance the town’s commercial landscape and tax revenue.

The council acknowledged the community’s concerns regarding the development and the need for transparency in the decision-making process. The management of state funds, the responsibility of residents for repayment, and the introduction of ordinances related to compensation of officers and employees, land use regulations, and motorized vehicles were also discussed.

In addition to the matters of e-bikes and property development, the meeting encompassed broader topics such as the RFP process and infrastructure projects. The council assured the public of the availability of RFP responses for review, addressing concerns about transparency. The proposed bike lane project was debated in terms of safety, with the Chief of Police mentioning the risk of pushing cyclists onto a state highway without a shoulder.

Parking issues related to a proposed restaurant development were discussed, highlighting the lack of parking space for potential patrons. The transparency of the voting process and information availability to the public were also points of contention, with some residents desiring more insight into how decisions are reached.

The council introduced and adopted the 2024 Municipal budget, which was noted to reflect a decrease in spending from the previous year and a projected decrease in the tax rate. Moreover, discussions about retirements in the town’s leadership team and the town’s future development, including potential modifications to storm water sewer grates for bike lanes, were also on the agenda.