Joseph Setticase

The Council proclaimed June 2026 as Pride Month and reviewed various departmental reports, including updates on infrastructure projects, pedestrian safety, and upcoming community events. Several bond ordinances regarding capital, water utility, and sewer utility improvements were finally adopted. The introduction of an ordinance regarding the affordable housing overlay district was tabled. Additionally, the Council approved consent agenda items, such as liquor license renewals, park improvement change orders, municipal insurance appointments, property tax relief, and participation in the Community Development Program. Citizens raised concerns regarding e-bike regulations and fireworks.

The Council meeting involved several proclamations honoring local individuals, including Linda Walling, Lucas Rizzuto Canero, and Michele Torres Wieczoreck. The council heard department reports on summer events, parks projects, and the beach renovation. Legislative discussions included the introduction and first reading of an ordinance regarding the Affordable Housing Overlay District. The council also approved a consent agenda covering liquor license renewals, the annual audit certification, property tax relief, the appointment of a qualified purchasing agent, a shared services agreement for public safety dispatch, and an amendment to the Fourth Round Housing Element and Fair Share Plan.

The Council meeting involved several key discussions, including multiple proclamations recognizing National Police Week, Peace Officers' Memorial Day, Emergency Medical Services Week, National Public Works Week, and the Public Safety Cadet Program. Legislative actions included the final adoption of an ordinance concerning a tax exemption for Duck Realty LLC, and the introduction of several bond ordinances for capital, water utility, and sewer utility improvements. Consent agenda items included the resolution of project completions, performance bond releases, and legal service agreements. The meeting also featured public commentary regarding tax abatements, municipal debt, and concerns about pipeline infrastructure projects in the area.

The Council held a special meeting to discuss several key items, including a public hearing regarding the Monmouth County Open Space Trust Funds Grant Application for the Noble Place Building improvements. The Council adopted Ordinance 15-2026 regarding the Affordable Housing Overlay District and introduced Ordinance 16-2026 regarding real property tax abatements. Additionally, the Council approved a consent agenda covering grant applications, residential tax exemptions, and a liquor license renewal. An executive session was conducted to address personnel and contract negotiations.

The council meeting included a proclamation for Professional Municipal Clerks Week, a presentation by the Construction Department, and updates on park improvement projects and library services. The governing body adopted the 2026 Municipal and Solid Waste budgets and introduced an ordinance regarding a five-year tax exemption for a specific property. Other actions included approving shared services with the regional school board and authorizing raffles. Public discussion focused on concerns regarding municipal debt, road conditions, cannabis tax revenue, and parking management at a residential property.