09:32A key highlight of the meeting was the authorization of a contract with Alan Construction, Inc. for the first phase of the boardwalk reconstruction project, covering the stretch from Fifth Avenue to Island Avenue. The project, which will be carried out in three phases, is poised to comprehensively replace the underpinnings. The mayor outlined financial arrangements for the project, including short-term financing through the I-Bank, which will later convert to a 30-year loan. This financing strategy is designed to be cost-effective, with the first half of the loan interest-free and the subsequent half subject to market rates.

00:00Discussion also centered around a proposal from TNM Associates regarding a heavy equipment storage building. This structure aims to safeguard public works equipment, with funding already incorporated into the budget. The proposal includes land preparation and engineering services, which could be divided into smaller components for detailed evaluation. Council members were encouraged to factor in the larger costs of mechanical and electrical elements, crucial for the facility’s functionality.

04:03Another topic was the request for a fair share agreement with Ocean County for the 14th Avenue pump station project. The council is working towards a 50/50 cost-sharing arrangement with the county, with hopes of using this agreement as a model for future collaborations. The project is targeted for commencement early next year.

05:30The council also considered a proposal from Millennium Strategies for grant writing services linked to the federal TOPS cops hiring program. This initiative could cover up to 75% of the costs for hiring police officers, with the town covering the remaining 25% and committing to retain the officers for four years. The grant writing services are priced at $3,000.

08:49Further discussions included proposals from RBE Engineering for GIS services to update the lead service line inventory, a federally mandated task, and to update mapping for a new water main on Ocean Avenue. These updates, with costs estimated at $560 and $2,240 respectively, are essential for maintaining compliance with federal regulations and ensuring the community’s infrastructure remains up-to-date.

11:22The meeting also addressed the acquisition of a 2025 Ford Interceptor SUV for the police department. Priced at $42,493, with additional outfitting costs bringing the total to $55,532, this purchase is part of a state contract. Initially, $80,000 had been allocated for a Tahoe, but reliability issues led to the decision to opt for the Ford. This decision is part of broader efforts to modernize the police fleet, which currently struggles with aging vehicles, some exceeding 100,000 miles.

12:40During the public portion, residents inquired about various projects, including the pole barn project and the aging fleet of police vehicles. Clarifications were given that the pole barn would be fully enclosed, serving as a garage, and the necessity for reliable patrol vehicles was reiterated, given the police fleet’s current condition.

01:55Among other matters, the council adopted Ordinance 22517 to amend Chapter 435 on vehicles and traffic, and approved events like the Hammer Surf School and a patriotic bike parade, contingent on insurance updates and county approval. Additionally, the payment of claims and several resolutions, including the renewal of local liquor licenses and a salary increase for the deputy municipal clerk, were unanimously approved.

18:23The meeting concluded with updates on ongoing projects, such as the upcoming marina breakwater project and improvements at the Lake Avenue playground and 14th Avenue Pier park lot. A notable mention was the acquisition of light poles from JCP&L, with plans to install LED solar lights at the marina and Fifth Avenue Pier.