The centerpiece of the meeting was the discussion around enhancing the aesthetics of downtown Ventnor through a proposed facade improvement program. The council explored the idea of offering tax abatements to business owners who invest in upgrading their building facades. This initiative is designed to encourage property improvements that could increase foot traffic and improve the overall attractiveness of the downtown area. By providing financial incentives, the city hopes to stimulate renovations that might otherwise be financially daunting for business owners.

Council members discussed establishing a minimum expenditure threshold to qualify for tax benefits. The conversation also touched on the need for a review process to ensure that proposed improvements align with the community’s aesthetic goals. Suggestions included involving the local historic society to draw inspiration from Ventnor’s architectural heritage, as well as considering the establishment of a Special Improvement District to fund collective enhancements.

Participants expressed varying opinions about how prescriptive the city should be in dictating design choices. While some advocated for flexibility and creativity, others emphasized the importance of maintaining certain aesthetic standards to achieve a cohesive look. The idea of creating guidelines or a “shopping list” of desired improvements was proposed to assist business owners in making informed decisions about renovations.

In addition to facade improvements, the council addressed several infrastructure issues. Notably, they approved an agreement with Blackjack Construction for road repairs on Swathmore Avenue, Wellington Avenue, and Burke Avenue. These repairs are necessary due to a significant depression caused by the roads being built over an old dump site. The council emphasized the importance of addressing the root causes of these issues to ensure long-lasting solutions.

Another highlight was the authorization of professional engineering services for boardwalk lighting improvements. The current lighting system was deemed inadequate, with the council discussing options to lower the height of light fixtures, increase wattage, or add more fixtures to enhance safety and aesthetics. The boardwalk’s total reconstruction from the pier to Jackson Avenue was also on the agenda, with the project funded in part by a state grant and aiming for completion by December 2026.

The meeting featured discussions on the Ventnor Gardens Plaza stormwater rehabilitation, which saw a reduction in contract costs from over $700,000 to $648,000. Additionally, the council approved a climate solutions grant agreement with the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection to fund street tree planting, which is part of the city’s ongoing environmental efforts.

The council also moved forward with personnel matters, including the promotion of Robert Newcomber to a supervisory role within the sewer department and the upcoming hiring of three new firefighters.

Community engagement was celebrated throughout the meeting, with a proclamation honoring St. James Roman Catholic Church for its 100th anniversary. The church was recognized for its contributions to the community, including hosting a farmers market and serving as an emergency refuge during crises. Plans for a celebratory event at the church were announced, featuring performances and activities.

In the realm of public safety, the council commended the beach patrol’s performance at the Bill Howorth South Jersey Lifeguard Championships and acknowledged the contributions of local Girl Scouts and Boy Scouts in community service projects.

As the meeting drew to a close, the council opened the floor for public comments, though no participants from the Zoom platform came forward. The session concluded with the council entering an executive session to discuss personnel matters, specifically an involuntary disability retirement application for a firefighter.