The grant for the Boardwalk reconstruction marks a step in modernizing and preserving one of Ventnor City’s most treasured assets. The funds will be appropriated through a bond ordinance to support the replacement of aging pilings and the enhancement of dunes. This project not only promises to improve the visual and structural integrity of the Boardwalk but also aims to bolster the city’s resilience against natural elements. The efforts of the city engineer and grant coordinator in securing the grant were acknowledged, with a special mention of the governor’s personal communication regarding the award.

Another item on the agenda was the 2024 Municipal budget. The proposed budget is designed to maintain financial stability while staying within the state spending cap, an effort that earned commendation for those involved in its preparation, including the CFO and department heads. The council noted the city’s growth, with increasing tax revenues and interest rates impacting the budget’s formulation.

In response to public concern, the council clarified regulations surrounding short-term rentals. Rentals such as Airbnb and VRBO are allowed in residential zones but require a mercantile license and adherence to inspections and permits. A resident’s concerns about the impact of transient occupants on the community led to a reminder that there are strict occupancy restrictions and penalties for violating regulations, such as improper waste disposal. The council encouraged reporting any inappropriate behaviors to the appropriate authorities.

The meeting also touched upon ordinances addressing parking regulations at street ends near the boardwalk and beach. Other resolutions introduced covered topics like budget amendments, supporting anti-idling ordinances, and establishing salaries for 2024.

A notable point of discussion was an ordinance concerning the salaries and wages for Ventnor City lifeguards. Recognizing the importance of a competitive compensation package, the council discussed aligning lifeguard salaries with neighboring communities to attract and retain qualified personnel. A council member recused themselves from the vote due to a personal connection but praised the efforts to ensure competitive lifeguard compensation.

The council addressed community event planning, with the scheduling of the Memorial Day celebration and the Kenny Whan run requiring relocation and reconfiguration due to construction delays and the need for larger venues. The commitment to reinvesting in event spaces to facilitate future larger gatherings was emphasized.

Personnel changes were also part of the agenda, with the retirement of a construction code official leading to discussions about department reorganization. The council expressed plans to repair the pickleball courts and replace the clock on the library Clock Tower, noting the progress in finding a contractor for the latter.

During the public comment session, issues such as concerns about dog waste on the boardwalk and beach came forward. The council mentioned an increase in seasonal officers to enforce regulations and fines, addressing violations related to dogs and bicycles on the boardwalk. A resident’s complaint about changes in parking regulations without adequate notification was met with a commitment to improve parking sign legibility and a discussion about parking ticket issuance.

The council’s discussion of the Winchester Avenue bulkhead project, the Suck Avenue Recreation Complex grant, and the postponement of the Bandshell construction to September highlighted ongoing infrastructure and community improvement efforts.