The dune project, which involves transporting sand from Wildwood Crest to North Wildwood to construct a new dune approximately 16 feet high, was a point of contention. Council members, along with residents, voiced concerns about the project’s potential impact on the local beach environment, including significant erosion and loss of beach area, particularly around the fishing pier. One council member highlighted the risks, suggesting that alterations to the beach could have unforeseen consequences, potentially jeopardizing beach safety.

The financial implications of the project were also a concern. The council noted that the current setup with 270 beach boxes generates approximately $260,000, the second highest revenue stream after tax collection. The potential reduction in beach area could result in the loss of roughly half of this revenue, necessitating additional taxpayer funding to offset the shortfall. The council emphasized the importance of keeping the public informed about the project’s impacts, with plans to use visual aids and drone footage to illustrate the potential changes to the beach and dunes.

Residents echoed the council’s concerns. Carl Schmo, a local resident, criticized the project for contradicting environmental standards and principles, questioning the logic of removing existing dunes and vegetation that represent years of natural growth and conservation efforts. Schmo further expressed apprehension about how a narrower beach might fail to provide adequate protection against severe weather events, particularly hurricanes.

In response to inquiries about how Wildwood Crest might officially withdraw from the project, it was noted that a resolution to rescind participation in the state aid agreement could suffice. Yet, clarity was lacking on whether the Army Corps would engage in further discussions regarding the project.

Aside from the dune project, the council addressed the need for renovations to the borough’s administrative building. This building, which had not received updates in recent years, was reported to have visible leaks and deteriorating brickwork. The council discussed engaging an architect to plan renovations, especially for the police department side. Concerns were voiced about the building’s structural integrity, with particular emphasis on the northwest foundation. Members expressed a desire to ensure that all parties involved in the renovation understood their respective roles and responsibilities.

In the realm of public safety, resident Mike Marino expressed concerns about rising departmental costs, which increased from $4.9 million to $5.2 million over three years. Marino projected that total spending could reach $24 million by the end of the current commissioner’s term in December 2024. He questioned the necessity of recent hires in the Public Safety department. A council member clarified that recent hires were in the academy before being sworn in as full-time employees, but the timeline of these hires led to some confusion.

The meeting also touched on infrastructure projects, with updates on necessary preparatory work by the borough in advance of a significant county roadway project scheduled for 2026. There was mention of ongoing construction on the west side Bayside project, a public works roof project, and the potential for FEMA grant funding to aid in beach outfall improvements.

In addressing old business, the council reviewed a bicycle safety path, with a member noting the fading traffic paint along the path. The council speculated on whether existing infrastructure could be enhanced without incurring significant costs. Despite the ongoing discussions, there was skepticism about the effectiveness of increased signage, as many users might disregard common sense traffic rules.

The council also continued preparations for the United States’ 250th birthday, calling for volunteers to assist with event planning. The concluding remarks included discussions on budgetary matters, such as the Craft Municipal App and a concession agreement related to beach chairs, both of which were pending.