The proposal for sailboat charters in Seaside Park emerged as a point of interest. A member of the public suggested the idea, drawing parallels with a similar ordinance in neighboring Seaside Heights. The proposal offered a potential new dimension to local recreational activities and businesses, proposing Fifth Avenue as a potential docking location. The council agreed to review the idea and its potential impact on local businesses and recreational activities.

The meeting progressed to the introduction of three ordinances, with a primary focus on Ordinances 2023-17 and 2023-18. The first pertained to lead-based paint inspections, an issue of health safety. The second addressed requirements for rental properties to provide a Certificate of Insurance, as mandated by the state. The council debated on recommended fees, with suggestions to remove the rental inspection fee and modify certain sections of the ordinances.

Additionally, concerns were raised by the public regarding the availability of these draft ordinances for review. Questions were posed about the specifics of the requirements for rental properties and the proposed extension of the utility grace period. The council acknowledged these concerns, promising to make the ordinances available for public scrutiny.

The council also discussed a third ordinance, 2023-19, which aimed to amend the construction official’s compensation. A resolution was passed to appoint a construction official while adjusting the compensation for a zoning office official.

On the utility front, the council approved a resolution to extend the grace period for water and sewer payments. The decision came in response to some bills being sent out late, with the proposed extension to January 16th. This grace period resolution was noted to need an update on the website to reflect the correct date.

The meeting also addressed operational issues, including the 13th Avenue b-field lights. The lights, now reported to be operational and on display for a final test, were touted as “more focused” and using energy-efficient LED technology. Council members encouraged the public to evaluate the enhanced lighting.

Public comments during the meeting touched upon local concerns like water flooding on I Street and the need for a meeting on the Bayfront. A resident also mentioned ongoing discussions within the Bayfront committee about new studies on the Forked River Shoreline project.