At the forefront of the meeting’s agenda was the discussion on the phase 3A and 3B water main replacement project. The council addressed the bond ordinance required for this significant infrastructure project, aimed at improving the water line service. The substantial cost of the project raised some eyebrows, with council members noting the considerable figures involved and the impact on the town’s finances. The project’s necessity, due to aging water mains and the need for reliable water service, underlined the deliberations.

In line with the water infrastructure theme, the council introduced a capital ordinance for water meters with an extended lead time, potentially affecting the water main replacement project’s schedule. Despite the delay, the project is not expected to impact taxes, offering a bit of relief amidst financial concerns.

Addressing another aspect of the town’s infrastructure, the council debated the draft ordinance to designate Second Avenue as a one-way street. The change aims to enhance safety and convenience for residents, with Public Works scheduled to install the necessary signage following the ordinance’s second reading.

A notable moment during the meeting was the council’s expression of condolences for former council president Michael, reflecting on his service and his involvement in the Bayfront committee. His untimely passing was acknowledged with a commitment to extend sympathies to his family and friends.

The council’s focus then shifted to community welfare, as they discussed leaving the state health benefits plan in favor of joining the Central Jersey Health Insurance Fund. The decision, driven by potential cost savings and improved employee benefits, could result in an annual savings of approximately $90,000. The new plan’s smaller deductibles and comprehensive coverage were highlighted as significant advantages over the current state plan.

Community events and authorizations were also a topic of discussion, with approvals granted for several organizations including the Republican Club of Seaside Park Inc., Oceans Harbor House charity benefit, Seaside Park softball league, and New Life Church First Baptist. The council emphasized the importance of updated Certificates of Insurance for these events.

The council considered a grant application for the New Jersey fiscal year 2024 local recreational improvement grant, aimed at improving the drainage and grading at the ball field. The potential impact of the grant on the loan for the project and the fast-approaching application deadline were discussed.

During the public comments segment, residents raised concerns about flooding, the need for street and house raising to combat flood effects, and the maintenance of drainage systems. The impact of waves on infrastructure and the condition of drains were also highlighted. The council agreed to a meeting with the county to prioritize flood mitigation and explore the potential for joint shared services applications for resilience grant money.

The establishment of two committees, one for Recreation and Beach Operation and another for Beach Operations, was clarified during the meeting. The former will manage tourism, recreation, and beach operation, while the latter focuses specifically on beach patrol and control. The need for a formalized recreation department was contemplated, but concerns about staffing and resources were raised.

The meeting also entertained the idea of a new request for proposal (RFP) for the beach control concession stand’s lease, which had recently expired. The council debated the specifics of the lease, including the items to be sold at the concession stand and the annual increase in lease payments.

In terms of community development, the council deliberated on potential public uses for the former Park Central site. Suggestions included incorporating a bocce ball court and seeking input from community groups to assist in the site’s development. The council discussed implementing the plan in increments to manage costs effectively.

On a financial note, the council addressed the issue of tax overpayments by a bank, totaling $26,000. There was debate about the possibility of carrying forward the overpayment instead of issuing refunds, with the council agreeing to seek further information from the tax collector.

Lastly, the council approved the payment of claims for the period of February 2, 2024, to February 15, 2024, and addressed several resolutions including authorizing raffle license applications, appointing special law enforcement officers, and authorizing agreements for professional planning services and municipal prosecutor appointments.