Eric Zanetti

The board discussed and took action on several development applications. The board memorialized a resolution approving a major preliminary and final site plan with height and curb variance requests for a mixed-use project involving 48 residential units and retail space. Additionally, the board held a public hearing for a minor site plan application seeking to demolish two single-family homes and construct two new two-story, single-family homes on a lot with an existing multi-family structure, which included requests for use and density variances, parking waivers, and setbacks; this application was ultimately denied by the board.

The council held both a caucus and a regular meeting to address various municipal matters. Key discussions and actions included an executive session regarding personnel transitions, and several resolutions concerning the payment of bills, the appointment of seasonal staff, and the appointment of a Borough Clerk and Deputy Borough Clerk. Infrastructure projects were addressed through the approval of a change order for stormwater improvements, a contract for water main replacement, and the rejection of bids for sanitary sewer improvements. Additionally, the council reviewed and approved several special event applications, including outdoor activities, festivals, and memorial events. Policies regarding grant management, conflicts of interest, and personally identifying information were also considered.

The meeting included discussions on Memorial Day public safety tactics, an update on the electric utility generators, a request for a seasonal tiki bar at the Ocean View Restaurant, and updates regarding the municipal budget and transitional aid. The council addressed several resolutions, including the payment of bills, the appointment of police academy candidates, a technical assistance grant, a change order for the Water Treatment Plant electrical project, various tax and escrow refunds, and the hiring of seasonal employees. Additionally, ordinances regarding rapid entry box requirements, alcoholic beverage license fees for theatres, and beach storage box fees were considered. A motion was made to carry the adoption of the municipal budget to a later date.

The board reviewed an application for a major preliminary and final site plan for a new residential development. Key discussion topics included a request for a variance for a depressed curb and a C height variance for an elevator shaft reaching 54.9 feet to provide rooftop access. The applicant clarified changes to the building's internal layout and the removal of a pool feature in favor of a common area, while maintaining original parking specifications. Public comment addressed concerns regarding building height, potential noise from the rooftop area, and the impact on neighboring properties. The board ultimately adopted a resolution approving the project.

The meeting encompassed both a caucus and a regular session. During the caucus, the body discussed police sergeant vacancies and received an update regarding the Carousel Pavilion. The regular meeting agenda included the authorization of bill payments, approval of amusement games licenses, acceptance of volunteer fire department and water rescue team members, and the awarding of an IT consulting contract. Furthermore, the council accepted grant funds for the COPS in Shops program, authorized the sale of surplus property, awarded prescription management services, and certified compliance with employment opportunity guidance. Legislative actions included the introduction of the 2026 municipal budget, the adoption of ordinances regarding budget appropriation limits and the boulevard redevelopment plan, and a zoning amendment. Additionally, the council handled the promotion of police sergeants, the swearing-in of a police lieutenant, and approved local event permits for a volleyball tournament and a bike ride.