On today’s agenda is the second reading and public hearing for a bond ordinance that will fund most of the capital projects included in the capital plan adopted by city council this past December. Some of the key items included are replacement of an EMS ambulance, replacement of the Public Works roll off truck, funding for the continuation of our road and drainage program including the pump station at 46th Street, funding for our share of the beach replenishment program, and funding for new breakwaters and docks at the marina.
Our capital plan and today’s bond ordinance are aimed squarely at resilience and readiness - modernizing emergency response, strengthening drainage, and safeguarding our shoreline. Beach replenishment and the marina improvements will not only enhance recreation but also protect homes, businesses, and public infrastructure from storms and flooding. These are prudent investments that reflect what we’ve heard from residents, second homeowners, and businesses alike: keep Sea Isle safe, accessible, and welcoming.
The contractor for the beach replenishment project, Norfolk Dredging, is working to complete the pipeline connection to the dredge in order to begin sand pumping operations today on our downtown beaches, starting around 43rd Street and heading southward. The beach-fill will proceed to 55th Street; then the project will turn around and go from 43rd to 29th Street.
As we’ve stated before, the dredging operation involved with beach replenishment is very dependent on good sea conditions, so let’s hope for calm seas over the next few weeks, as the contractor works to complete the project prior to the July 4th weekend.
We are posting daily updates about the project on our city website, where you can find out the specific location of sand pumping, and which beach access points are closed.
I thank our residents and visitors for their patience with the temporary beach access changes as we push hard to finish before the heart of summer.
This coming Friday, June 12, is Women Veterans Recognition Day, which we’ll celebrate at 10 a.m. at Veterans Park. On that date in 1948, the Women’s Armed Services Integration act was signed into law by President Harry Truman. Before then, only women nurses could serve in the regular and reserve forces during peacetime. I hope you can join us on Friday, when we honor and recognize the courage, leadership, and sacrifice of our women veterans.
We’re heading into our prime season - Saturday June 20th is our annual Skimmer Festival, followed on Sunday the 21st by our Antique Auto Show and parade.
July 4th is less than 4 weeks from today, and once again, I’m asking all our property owners to fly the American Flag to show our community spirit and patriotism as we approach the nation’s 250th birthday.
Also remember, this coming Sunday, June 14th is flag day, which is another reason to fly the “Stars and Stripes.”
With the crowded conditions we have every summer, I want to remind everyone to drive slowly, bicycle carefully, and be mindful when you’re crossing the streets. We want everyone to be safe, enjoy themselves, and take it easy.
Smile…You’re in Sea Isle!
Mayor Leonard C. Desiderio
During the June 9 City Council meeting, Ordinance 1739 had its second reading and public hearing. Ordinance 1739 is a bond ordinance that funds most of the capital projects included in the capital plan adopted by city council this past December. The total bond ordinance amount is $6,935,000. Key items included are replacement of an EMS ambulance, replacement of the Public Works roll off truck, funding for the continuation of our road and drainage program including the pump station at 46th Street, funding for the city’s share of the beach replenishment program, and funding for new breakwaters and docks at the marina. There were no public comments on the ordinance, and it was adopted by unanimous vote of the council.
Each of the resolutions on the June 9 consent agenda were approved, including…
• Resolution 077, which authorized the issuance of an Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC) renewal license for Kix Lounge and Package Goods.
• Resolution 078, which authorized the issuance of an ABC renewal license for 42 Place, LLC.
• Resolution 079, which authorized the issuance of an ABC renewal license for Diamonds.
During the “Citizen Comment” portion of the June 9 meeting, several citizens stepped to the microphone to express concerns about the conditions at the Oar House Pub on 42nd Place, regarding noise, damage to nearby properties, and the Oar House’s continuation of its extension of premises license to the adjacent property. Some citizens did comment that they were not concerned with the conditions or noise at the Oar House, and there were comments that the city should ensure that all establishments are enforced consistently, without selective enforcement.
In addition to comments regarding the Oar House Pub, a citizen expressed concern about the placement of sand by the city in the area of 64th Street, and that this is causing additional build up of the dunes in that location. Another citizen expressed concern with the parking of unregistered vehicles along Park Road and 43rd Street and asked that the city look at conditions in this area.
The council appreciates the input it receives from everyone and will follow up with the administration on the above matters.
Our next City Council meeting will take place on Tuesday, June 23, at 10:00 AM on the third floor of City Hall – and we hope to see you there!
Best regards from the members of City Council,
Council President Mary Tighe
Ian Ciseck
Frank Edwardi
Michael Jargowski
William Kehner
