At the forefront of the meeting, the council approved a bond ordinance numbered 2024-012, which allocated $14,110,689 for the repair and rehabilitation of the Boardwalk. This substantial investment is set to be matched with $7.1 million from the New Jersey Boardwalk Preservation Fund, supplemented by an additional $7 million in bonds. Another approved bond ordinance, 2024-013, authorized the issuance of $3 million in bonds for the improvement of the city’s recreation facilities. These improvements are anticipated to enhance the quality of life for residents and visitors by providing upgraded spaces for sports and leisure activities.

The council spent an amount of time discussing potential amendments to existing ordinances to accommodate pedal-assist bicycles on the boardwalk. The conversation centered on the classification of low-speed electric bicycles and the specific regulations for their operation, especially during peak beach hours. The council weighed the benefits of amending the regulations for bicycles, roller skates, and skateboards in the city, including the potential elimination of the section related to bicycle registration. There was further debate on whether to individually go through each section of the ordinance or to address the issues collectively. A suggestion was made to add the word “throttled” to clarify the enforcement policies surrounding bicycles.

In response to concerns about public safety, the council considered restricting vehicle access to the beach during the summer months. They also proposed an increase in the fine for violating ordinances related to bicycles and electric vehicles. The council agreed to review the redlined sections of the ordinance and to consult with the Chief of Police before proceeding with the first reading.

Public comments included input from a representative of the Ventnor Pickleball Advisory Committee, who expressed support for the recreation bond and emphasized the importance of improving facilities such as the pickleball courts. Another community member praised the council’s efforts to enhance recreational amenities, expressing excitement for the planned improvements. In response, the council provided updates on temporary work on the pickleball courts, plans for reconstruction, and the consideration of opening the basketball courts before the summer season.

The meeting also touched upon the sensitive issue of wind turbines, with the council expressing support for funding litigation against the placement of wind turbines within 8 to 10 miles of the coastline. Concerns were raised about the potential impact on the local environment. In addition to environmental matters, the meeting marked a notable moment as the mayor announced his last meeting in the role, reflecting on his tenure and the relationships built during his time in office.

Residents raised concerns about the efficiency of building inspections, highlighting delays and suggesting the exploration of alternative methods such as video inspections or increasing the number of inspectors. The council acknowledged the recent influx of building permits and shared that a third-party inspection company had been hired to help address the backlog.

Another issue brought to the council’s attention was the problem of dog owners not cleaning up after their pets on the strip of grass between the street and pavement. After a resident voiced concerns about the lack of enforcement and its impact on neighborhood quality of life, the council clarified maintenance responsibilities and advised residents to report violations to the police department.

The meeting concluded with the acknowledgment of the passing of former mayor and commissioner Mary Maano, a moment of silence in her honor, and the adoption of resolutions 138 through 144 by consent. The council also made announcements about upcoming block parties, election day, and plans for street end striping.