Patrick J. DeBlasio

The council conducted a public hearing regarding plenary license transfers and discussed ordinances to amend parking fees for the Raritan Avenue parking lot and designated parking spaces. Additionally, the council introduced a budget ordinance to exceed appropriation limits, approved the CY2026 municipal budget, and authorized the payment of bills. Other key actions included awarding contracts for a firework display, a sewer grinder, and the 2025 Roadway Improvement Program, as well as approving a lease for the Beach Pavilion and a substantial change order for the 2023 Roadway Improvement Program. The meeting also addressed tax cancellations, tonnage grant applications, and resolutions authorizing the issuance of redevelopment area bonds.

The meeting included an opening salute to the flag and a moment of silence in memoriam for Agatha Healy. The council conducted an award ceremony to present recognition certificates for actions taken during a fire on Seeley Avenue, acknowledging various civilians, members of the police department, the EMS team, and the local fire departments for their service and contributions.

The Council discussed and adopted ordinances regarding volunteer fire department membership requirements, building and housing fee schedules, and parking fee amendments for the Raritan Avenue parking lot and other designated municipal spaces. Resolutions were passed to authorize bill payments, appoint a member to the Housing Authority, execute a legal settlement agreement, and authorize an application for a Department of Community Affairs grant for park rehabilitation. Departmental reports covered water and sewer repairs, economic development updates on new business openings and inquiries, and progress on road improvement projects. The public comment session addressed parking enforcement, road maintenance, and a request for educational signage regarding horseshoe crabs.

The council conducted the second reading of Ordinance #1769 regarding the Affordable Housing Plan and Development Fees. The discussion detailed comprehensive regulations for affordable housing, including definitions, requirements for new construction, administrative procedures for affordable housing programs, regional income limits, maximum initial rents and sales prices, and the implementation of an affirmative marketing plan.

The Council received a presentation regarding the Beach Bucket Project for Keansburg high school environmental initiatives. Legislative actions included the adoption of bond ordinances for Bayview Avenue drainage improvements, tennis court reconstruction at Collins Field Park, and supplemental funding for 2023 road and infrastructure improvements. Additionally, an ordinance was adopted to amend extra duty pay rates for police, and an ordinance amending membership age requirements for the Volunteer Fire Department was introduced. Finally, an ordinance regarding affordable housing and development fees was introduced to ensure compliance with fair housing regulations.