Council held the regularly scheduled session on Wednesday, April 26, 2023 and addressed the following topics at the meeting which lasted 3 hours and 20 minutes:
Police Chief Jeffrey Christopher briefed Council on the hiring of a Class II Special Officer for the summer season. This officer will be assigned to patrolling the bay area and has extensive boating experience.
There have been further delays in the hydraulic beach replenishment project. Severe weather conditions have required the movement of some equipment to a safe area. However, the goal is still completion before Memorial Day weekend.
Council approved a small encroachment waiver for Uncle Bill's. This is an encroachment which was only recently identified and represents no change in the outside seating area from the last few years.
Council approved a resolution supporting the proposed budget
Several members of the public addressed concerns to Council. They are summarized below:
Some members of the public expressed concerns that there was a quid pro quo for acceptance of a grant from the Ocean Wind Pro NJ Grantor Trust. They voiced concern that the grants (seven in Cape May County including three beach front communities) were a means of reducing resistance to offshore Wind Farms. Avalon's grant of $600,000 was used toward the construction of a storm water collection system in a drainage area between 8th and 14th Streets.
Both Council Members McCorristin and Juvaitis stated there was no quid pro quo and they are personally opposed to the wind farm concept, but Avalon will wait on officially weighing in until all the science is heard and an informed decision can be made.
Concerns were expressed about alleged plans to make changes to Armacost Park. Several neighbors of the park voiced their opposition to any changes being made to the ecosystem of the sanctuary area of the park. They believe it is perfect as it is and any changes would change the wildlife environment which they want to sustain.
Council stated that part of the allocated funds are for repair/replacement of playground equipment. Council is not aware of any definitive plan to change the protected area of the park.
