The Strathmere Living Shoreline project was conceived in October 2022 in response to a state-required evaluation of climate change threats. This assessment, integrated into municipal land use laws, highlighted various environmental risks, including sea level rise, coastal erosion, and severe weather events. Bay View Drive emerged as a particular concern, regularly experiencing flooding exacerbated by eroding marshlands that act as crucial flood defenses. Since 1978, these marshes have lost approximately nine inches per year.

To address these challenges, the township engaged Act Engineers to conduct various surveys and design a flood protection revetment or sill at Bay View Drive’s southern tip. The Strathmere Fishing and Environmental Club offered approximately $1.5 million towards resiliency projects, expressing interest in supporting the Strathmere Living Shoreline initiative. This contribution, though welcome, falls short of covering the entire project cost, necessitating further efforts to secure funding. The township has explored additional avenues, including potential support from Ducks Unlimited, to bridge this financial gap.

Before advancing with the permit applications, the township paused to incorporate feedback from a coastal engineer associated with the Strathmere Fishing Club, resulting in minor design revisions. Applications were then submitted to the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) and the Army Corps of Engineers, with reviews anticipated within 90 days and six months, respectively. The council approved a $1,000 application fee for essential geotechnical testing, a necessary step before construction can commence.

Long-term maintenance costs were discussed, drawing parallels with a similar project on Shooting Island. While no significant maintenance expenses are projected, monitoring costs are expected to ensure the project’s ecological impact, particularly concerning topographic surveys and aquatic life. This dialogue emphasized the importance of coastal marshes in flood defense and ongoing monitoring to safeguard the project’s success.

Another topic was the ongoing challenges and developments related to local infrastructure projects. The council discussed the fencing improvements for the athletic course on Putham Avenue. After discovering that co-op costs exceeded local quotes, the council decided to put the project out for bidding. Specifications are being developed, with advertisements planned within a month. Construction is expected to begin in early 2025, with the athletic course operational by late spring.

Progress on the skate park improvements at Amanda Fields was also noted. Feedback from the county required resubmitting the application as a Park and Recreation project. This revision is anticipated by the end of November. The New Bridge Road project (CR 628) is on a similar timeline, with advertisements set for the month’s end and construction slated for spring 2025.

Concerns were raised about the Cedar Swamp bridge reconstruction on Route 50, especially regarding potential detours impacting public safety. Effective communication with public safety officials is imperative to manage these detours, particularly around areas with poor sightlines. The council emphasized the need for local input, given the involvement of state traffic engineers unfamiliar with area conditions.

The meeting also highlighted public concerns about farmland assessment and employee salaries. During public comments, questions arose about a settlement agreement with the Cape May County Agricultural Development Board. Clarifications were sought regarding farmland assessment inconsistencies, particularly for a property owned by William S. Johnson. The discussion delved into the criteria for farmland assessment in New Jersey, distinguishing between farmland preservation and assessment.

Concerns about employee salaries were addressed, with the deputy tax assessor highlighting disparities and calling for a fair evaluation of salary ordinances.

The council further discussed fire safety amid dry conditions, noting a rise in forest fires since October 1. Proactive measures by fire services, including drone use, were highlighted. An award ceremony on December 9 will honor public safety personnel for their service during incidents in Upper Township.