Flooding concerns dominated the public comment period, with resident Kevin McAll voicing worries about flood mitigation strategies. McAll questioned why current plans focused on areas from 14th to I Street, expressing concerns about flooding at O and N Streets, particularly at the corner of Lake and O Streets and by the bay. He referenced a recent joint informational work session with the Bayfront Advisory Committee, where flood mitigation strategies were discussed, and confirmed that the town was exploring solutions for other flooded areas. The mayor responded, confirming that the council was committed to exploring mitigation solutions for all affected areas, including a stalled project at the Army Corps of Engineers affecting a seven-block area on Bay View Avenue.

Another issue was the enhancement of the beach’s lightning detection system. The council discussed the effectiveness of the current system and considered extending the operational hours of the sirens or horns, which currently activate when lightning is detected within 10 miles. The proposed change would allow the horns to be active from 6:00 AM to midnight, while the strobe lights would operate 24 hours a day. This arrangement aimed to balance noise concerns during nighttime hours with the need to ensure safety for beachgoers and boardwalk users during peak times.

The council also debated managing the lightning detection system outside of operational hours, particularly after lifeguards leave the beach. Questions arose about whether the automated system could serve as a weather watcher without needing human oversight. One member mentioned contacting the United States Lifesaving Association for clarity on this matter but had not yet received a response.

Comparisons with nearby beaches were made, noting that some areas maintain their sirens until the last weekend in September, while others have different operational protocols. For example, Brick Beach utilizes strobe lights year-round and activates sirens until late September. The conversation emphasized the need for a clear plan to ensure public safety without imposing undue burdens on residents or beachgoers.

Concerns over property rights were raised by Edward Lon, an attorney representing property owners near the water. Lon discussed a planned fence installation on a boundary line that would obstruct access to existing outdoor amenities like a shower and shed. He requested a meeting with council members to discuss the situation further, mentioning that the property had been in the family since 1967. The attorney highlighted that the property is a pre-existing non-conforming use protected under municipal land use law and argued that any action to remove or alter the property would be an “unjust taking” without due process. He expressed hope for an accommodation with the council and noted that his clients were prepared to pursue legal action if necessary.

The council also addressed operational matters, including the approval of multiple resolutions. Among these were the appointment of Special Law Enforcement Officers, authorizing a miscellaneous refund from Marina slip number 32, and the acceptance of the resignation of Joseph Tote from the position of Beach Control Manager, effective August 7. Jake Steinet was appointed as acting Beach Control Manager. The council recognized significant revenue opportunities through a partnership for antenna attachment and ground support equipment on a water tower, which exceeded previous expectations.

The meeting included discussions on transitioning to Heartland Payments for parking meter transactions, authorizing a lease with Business 360 Solutions for a new postage machine, and implementing non-conversion agreements for structures located in floodplains. The council approved a resolution for a sell tower lease bid, which included an increase in liability insurance coverage from $3 million to $5 million, considered acceptable by the risk manager. The new lease rate was favorable, exceeding current market rates, with a duration of 20 years and options for extensions.