The council’s primary focus was the introduction and adoption of new regulations concerning short-term rentals, particularly those listed on platforms like Airbnb. The proposed ordinance aims to address discrepancies between advertised occupancy limits and actual capacities. The urgency of this regulation was emphasized, with a consensus to introduce it at the first meeting in October to ensure public awareness ahead of the next rental season. One participant highlighted the importance of notifying property owners about updating their listings, especially in cases where properties accommodating ten guests are advertised for sixteen.

The meeting also addressed significant public safety concerns. The police chief reported a substantial increase in arrests, with 31 adult arrests in August compared to 18 in the previous year. This increase underscores the need for enhanced community safety measures. The chief also noted traffic detours due to the funeral procession for Wildwood Crest Volunteer Fire Company Assistant Chief Jack Holland, emphasizing the community’s respect and acknowledgment of his contributions.

The discussion on public safety extended to the topic of e-mobility devices such as e-scooters and low-speed vehicles. A resident expressed concerns about pedestrian and cyclist safety due to the influx of these new vehicles. They suggested implementing low-cost, temporary traffic calming measures, such as strategically placing bollards to visually guide drivers and encourage reduced speeds. The resident urged the borough to explore these temporary solutions to improve traffic flow and pedestrian safety without financial investment.

Further discussions revolved around the borough’s involvement in technical assistance for a $2 million grant aimed at sewer replacement and roadway improvements. This grant is expected to cover associated engineering fees, providing a financial benefit to the borough. The engineer provided updates on capital projects, particularly the BAS I H replacement project, which is now in the pre-construction phase with work expected to commence in approximately three weeks. Additional projects include renovations to borough hall bathrooms for ADA compliance and the reconstruction of Toledo Avenue, both anticipated to move forward by year’s end.

The council also discussed potential improvements in lightning detection systems along the beach. Neighboring municipalities have shown interest in acquiring smaller versions of these systems for their beach patrol buildings, with estimated costs at $33,000 per unit. This project may be approached as a community initiative rather than individual efforts.

Public safety reports were presented, detailing emergency service calls for August. The emergency services reported a total of 56 calls, including medical emergencies, elevator entrapments, and malfunctioning alarms. Chief Cortez’s EMS reported 170 calls for service, with 69 resulting in transports. The Beach Patrol Commissioner noted that the last guarding day was September 8, with the emergency response team scheduled to be on duty from September 21-22. The council acknowledged the community’s cooperation over a safe summer and looked forward to relocating to a renovated headquarters in 2025.

During the meeting, a discussion arose regarding bicycle safety on the bike path. An email suggested repainting traffic markings to delineate directions for cyclists, as the existing paint is outdated due to recent bike path widening. While no immediate timeline for these improvements was established, there was an acknowledgment that the task might require contracting out due to time constraints of in-house work. Discussions included involving the police and EMS to ensure comprehensive safety measures.

The council also addressed a request from Long Beach’s mayor regarding opposition to an offshore wind renewable energy project, with council members appearing unified in their stance against such projects. They agreed to draft a letter formally expressing their opposition.

In terms of old business, there was a confirmation that the current composition of the police department would remain unchanged, although some language within the existing ordinance requires revision. Concerns were raised about the reliability of the Class 2 program and its impact on staffing, which is deemed a significant liability. The council discussed potential language revisions to ensure clarity and effectiveness, noting that other municipalities had adopted similar programs due to staffing shortages.

Public comments included concerns about the increasing presence of e-mobility devices and suggestions for temporary traffic calming measures. The mayor extended condolences to the family of Mr. Holland and reminded attendees of the upcoming Seafars celebration. The meeting concluded with a motion to adjourn.