The meeting opened with a acknowledgment of Annie Rice, who dedicated 40 years to the borough. Rice, who began her career as a badge checker in 1985 and later became the tax collector in 2009, was honored with a proclamation. The proclamation highlighted her steadfast commitment, particularly during the pandemic. Rice expressed her gratitude, saying, “I can’t say how much I’m going to miss seeing everybody and helping out everybody.” She plans to spend her retirement traveling and engaging in community service.

Following Rice’s tribute, the council focused on the potential relocation of an Osprey platform. The initial site at the end of Lake Avenue was dismissed due to concerns about bird waste. A new location was suggested just north of the playground along Lake Avenue, in a wooded area by the water’s edge. This new spot is expected to be less disturbed, improving nesting success. The existing platform, plagued by blackbird interference, would remain as an additional site rather than being replaced. A resident, Pat Erso, backed the new location, referencing local osprey expert Cindy Flea’s insights on statewide challenges faced by Ospreys that year.

Another discussion revolved around an engineering quote for a topographic survey at the stormwater pump station on 14th Avenue. The survey was deemed critical to ensure the newly constructed county road met the required height for efficient stormwater management. The lack of clarity regarding the borough and county’s responsibilities in conducting the survey was noted, drawing parallels to standard construction practices where a final survey ensures compliance with specifications.

During the regular meeting, the council moved through the first readings of several ordinances, addressing water and sewer code amendments, property owner regulations, and special parking considerations. These ordinances were approved following standard procedural motions. Additionally, the Seaside Park PTA Halloween parade, slated for October 26, 2025, received authorization, contingent on a county parade permit. The event would feature a scarecrow contest, coordinated with the PTA.

Financial matters included approval of payment claims from October 3 to October 16, 2025, and resolutions like authorizing requests for professional positions for 2026 and a change order for engineering services at the 14th Avenue pump station project. Jennifer Burr was appointed as the municipal tax collector, effective November 1, and a consent agenda for resolutions passed without objections.

The public works committee reported developments, such as an appeal related to a desert problem before the New Jersey Supreme Court and environmental documentation for a construction site. The 14th Avenue pump station project is scheduled to bid in January, with construction set for spring. Improvements to J Street are expected to commence in November, partially funded by a New Jersey DOT grant.

An intriguing highlight was the reported reduction in water usage following water main upgrades.

During the public comment session, residents voiced concerns about various issues. Queries were raised about the expenditure for the marina and the process for identifying lead or copper pipes in homes. Some residents expressed frustration over receiving information through local media rather than directly from the council, citing a lack of transparency. Calls were made for detailed reports on police overtime and timely communication during emergencies, such as storm preparedness.