The most prominent topic at the meeting was the proposal for using a property at Third and Central for recreational activities. The idea was to include pickleball courts, AI courts, and horseshoe courts, converting the space into a family-friendly resort and recreational area. The council members showed interest in the proposal, recognizing the need to provide diverse recreational opportunities for residents.

Public comments from Denise Che, Tom Joseph, Michelle Miller, and Holly Burn addressed various community concerns. Che’s recreational space proposal was complemented by suggestions for a farmers market and a junior lifeguard program. Joseph highlighted the safety concern caused by the lack of lighting on the Fifth Avenue Pier, which has been an issue for eight months. Miller inquired about the revenue from beach badges, which was noted to be approximately $1.9 million, and suggested the inclusion of pickleball courts in future plans. Burn brought up the issue of underutilized paid parking spots and proposed the implementation of a seasonal parking pass for regular visitors, as well as designated parking or placards for lifeguards and badge checkers.

The council also discussed concerns related to short-term rentals, such as parking difficulties and neighborhood disturbances. There was a consensus on the need to consider regulations for short-term rentals to mitigate these issues. Additionally, the potential installation of broadband WiFi hotspots was mentioned.

Financial decisions were also a focal point of the meeting. The council deliberated on proposals by Remington and Vernick Engineers for the preparation of an NJ IB Nano loan application for the construction of a new well and for required tax map maintenance revision for the tax year 2024. The engagement of the engineering firm was seen as beneficial for complying with mandatory tax map maintenance requirements and for expertise in the application process.

The sale of general obligation bonds was another financial topic. The council introduced a capital ordinance for the purchase of Mobi Mats, which provide beach access to individuals with mobility issues. Public comments praised the Mobi Mats and discussed the use of beach badge revenue for this purchase, as well as for a fire truck. The council addressed inquiries about the revenue’s allocation and the concept of a Beach utility.

Seasonal and daily beach badge fees were under review, with the council contemplating increases in fees to balance revenue generation and beach access. Parking fees were also debated, with a proposition to raise weekend parking rates from $2 to $3 to manage overcrowding. The council negotiated a shared service agreement with Berkeley Township for $35,000 per year, though there was some reluctance to commit to a five-year contract.

A resident’s concern about the proportion of the budget spent on property acquisitions in 2023 called for transparency in financial decisions. Another resident questioned the pricing and availability of boat ramps and the utilization of parking space for trailers, sharing insights from parking studies and suggesting dynamic parking rates to manage demand. The installation of new parking kiosks and mobile payment options were also discussed.

The construction of a new well in the town raised debates about its necessity, location, and potential impact on property value. The council and residents exchanged views on the implications for the property’s long-term use.