Borough Council: February 14

NOTE: The Public Works Department has published the trash collection schedule for 2024, and copies should soon be available at distribution points throughout the Borough.  The spring bulk trash period will be May 3 through May 12, and the fall period will be August 30 through September 8.

Council held the regularly scheduled sessions on Wednesday, February 14, 2024. The following issues of interest were addressed:

  1. Attorney Lindsey Nome gave a presentation to Council regarding a request to vacate a portion of Barry Road.  Representing the Gallagher Family Trust,  Ms. Nome stated that the temporary blockage is needed in order to make renovations to the house.

  2. Donna Rothman, Chair of the Environmental Commission, gave Council a review of the Commission's annual report. The presentation can be viewed on the Borough's website video recording of the meeting.

  3. The contract for maintenance of the Borough's owned grounds and gardens was discussed, and there were three bidders. The contract, in the amount of $247,700 was awarded to the low bidder, AZO Landscaping.

  4. A resolution was approved authorizing an encroachment license to Al Fresco Ristorante (owned by the O'Hara Family Limited Partnership) for the restaurant at 2408-2418 Dune Drive.  This site (the former Brian's Restaurant) is seeking an extension to the existing awning.

  5. Council discussed the increases in 2024 launch fees for the Marina (now $40).

  6. Recently a sink hole has developed in the vicinity of the Bay Park, creating a safety hazard which must be eliminated. A bulkhead needs to be replaced at a cost of $20,000 to rectify the situation.

  7. Scott Wahl briefed Council on replacing the pilings at the Sport Fishing Center.

  8. Borough Resident Martha Wright questioned Council on a state-required annual planning and zoning Report. Council made no comment.

    Ms Wright also asked Council if any action has been taken regarding sand dune degradation at 5609 Dune Drive. In response Council advised that a complaint has been filed with Superior Court requesting a daily fine of $2,000 until the situation is rectified.  It is understood that the owners have requested an extension on the State's deadline for a plan to return the Dunes to their condition prior to recent landscaping, which violated environmental regulations.