During the public comments section of the meeting, a resident named Mike Marino raised pointed questions regarding public safety expenses, scrutinizing the management of these costs during the tenure of the current public safety leadership. He highlighted personal measures he had undertaken to manage his expenses amidst inflation, contrasting them with the borough’s spending. Specifically, Marino questioned what actions had been taken to reduce costs within the public safety department, emphasizing the impact of these expenses on residents with fixed incomes who would benefit from reduced taxes. In response, it was noted that transitioning to a lease program for vehicles instead of outright purchasing was a measure implemented to achieve savings.

Meanwhile, the council advanced several legislative items with unanimous support. Ordinance number 1442, which involved amendments to the Land Development ordinance affecting definitions and area and bulk regulations across various residential zones, was passed after a public hearing closed without comments. Similarly, ordinance number 1443, targeting amendments to Chapter 63 concerning sidewalks, curbs, and alleyways, also passed without public opposition. The ordinance mandates the use of certain porous materials in specified areas.

The introduction of ordinance number 1444, which deals with fences, walls, and associated permit fees, was scheduled for a first reading. The ordinance is expected to undergo further scrutiny in a public hearing slated for January 22, 2025.

Adjustmentsdministrative appointments and authorizations for 2025 were also concluded. Ronald Gunas was appointed borough solicitor, while Patrick Martin and Charles W. Sandman III were designated as the Municipal Conflict Prosecutor and Public Defender, respectively. Furthermore, the council authorized contracts with several professional service providers for planning, legal, and engineering needs, alongside technology support and website management services—each resolution passing smoothly without objections.

The meeting also highlighted several operational authorizations, including participation in the Defense Logistics Agency Law Enforcement Support Office 1033 program, allowing the Police Department to request and acquire excess Department of Defense equipment. Moreover, an expenditure was approved for the installation of an HVAC system at the Crest Pier building, and a shared services agreement for snow removal with the Wildwood Crest School District was ratified.

During discussions on old business, it was reported that a concession agreement concerning a hotel and beach share remains on hold. Plans for a 2025 swim run event were mentioned, along with ongoing exploration of traffic calming measures. A denied grant application led to discussions on whether to reapply, with the borough preparing for an infrastructure project on New Jersey Avenue in collaboration with the county. Additionally, the contractor for baseline work off Falls is expected to remobilize soon, with potential FEMA grant discussions ongoing.