to the Esbury Park Press and the Co-Star, our official newspapers, and was posted on the bulletin board and the municipal website. Take roll call. Councilman Donovan >> here. >> Counciloman Kenny >> here. Mayor Busco >> here. >> Councilman Delasio >> here. >> Council Moroni
>> here. Please stand for the pledge of >> allegiance to the flag of the United States of America and to the republic for it stands. One nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all. >> Please remain standing for a moment of
silence for our troops, their families, and our first responders. >> Okay. Thank you. First item is a workshop discussion. Any uh discussion from the council? >> Actually, if if you don't mind, mayor, there is one thing I wanted to address.
Um, I want to say I know there's been a understandable public concern about reports over discrepancies within the tax collector's office. Um, I've spoken with our auditor who's reviewing the situation. At this point, it does not seem like Belmar is missing money. Our
tax collection rates have been consistent and so far he hasn't seen any evidence of fiscal impropriy. We all view this matter seriously and we'll report back to the public any updates we can as soon as we can. That's what I
>> I have uh for people who like numbers uh the the checks that were Belmar checks total $30,944.71 and it was a total of eight checks. Uh four of those checks um those have been
resolved. the checks were either voided or new checks were issued for the ones that were found in the box. So that came to $21,3804, meaning there is left four checks that are still being looked into for $9,56467.
So that is the um that's the the full story as we have it right now. um we're having trouble actually contact. We know who needs to be contacted, but it's difficult to contact them because we don't have a good number or they're not responding to to texts or
emails. So, they'll keep trying to to do that so we can verify whether or not those checks were actually deposited or not deposited or replaced. Okay. So, that's the uh that's the update on the checks. And just I know there's a lot of uh
concern over uh the staff new staff appointments going forward and I just want to say we have been working collectively together to to fill those appointments and to find really good people to fill them. Um and it's been taking up a a lot of time but it's a task that we are committed to doing and
we're looking forward to presenting you with the people who will lead Belmore forward. And I I just like to add to that, you know, for anybody who unfortunately goes onto social media, you need to realize
that most of the stuff you read is not true. All right? The borrow is not falling apart. There are no financial problems. There are no checks laying all over, you know, people's desks. And, you know, we're not running a muck here. So, everything's proceeding orderly as well
as it can. And I just want to reassure the public that that's that's the way it is. And uh you know, unfortunately um some people just like to kind of stir the pot. So um no worries. Everything's
going to work out fine. Any other um workshop issues? If not, >> go ahead. >> We actually do have a proclamation. We have a proclamation for the mayor for his outgoing >> No, thank you so much. here today. So,
I'd like to read this proclamation for the mayor today. Sorry. Thank Thank you, April. Proclamation in honor and recognition of Gerald A. Jerry Buckesco, mayor of Belmar, January 1st
through June January 1st, 2023, June 30th, 2026. Whereas Gerald A. Bakafesco, a de a devoted resident of the burough of Belmar for over 60 years, has demonstrated throughout his life and abiding love for this community, its
residents, and the values that makes Belmar a place of pride along the Jersey Shore. And whereas Jerry Buckfusco was duly elected by the residents of Belmar and sworn into the office of mayor on January 1st, 2023, bringing with him a steadfast commitment to transparency,
accountability, and fiscal responsibility and trans and whereas under Mayor Busap Buckusco's leadership, the Burough of Belmar successfully achieved compliance with New Jersey's affordable housing mandates, overseeing through due diligent negotiation,
inclusion, and affordable units in major development projects. projects, ensuring that housing opportunity remains accessible to all residents. And whereas Mayor Buckfusesco directed improvements to Bur Belmar Burrow's essential public infrastructure, including the repair and
enhancement of roads, sanitary sewer systems, and water lines, safeguarding the health, safety, and quality of life of all residents in the in the business in residents and businesses in the burough. And whereas Mayor Buckabusesco enriched the cultural life of Belmar by
partnering with Belmar Arts Council to finish their installation project for a community outdoor piano in Piano Plaza dedicated in honor of East Street band alumnist David Sanctious and his beloved mother Stella Sanctious. And whereas whereas throughout his tenure, Mayor
Buckfusco conducted himself with the highest ethical standards, demonstrating unwavering integrity and impartiality in every decision affecting the residents and taxpayers of Belmore. Now therefore, be it proclaimed that the mayor and burough of counselor in the burough of Bulmer, county of Mammoth, state of New
Jersey, do hereby commend and extend deep gratitude to Mayor Jerry Buckusco for his exemplary service, tireless dedication, and lasting contributions to the Burough of Delmare. The Burough Council extends its heartfelt best wishes to Mayor Buckusco, his wife,
Marlene, and his entire family, and wishes him health, happiness, and fulfillment in the years to come. >> Thank you so much. LET'S NOT, you know, prolong the meeting anymore than we have.
Uh, petitions. Any petitions? April, >> I did not receive any petitions. Approve the minutes. >> Can I have a motion to approve the minutes of the June 9th meeting? >> Motion. >> Second. >> Councilwoman Donovan.
>> Yes. >> Counciloman McKenna. >> Yes. >> Councilman Delasio. >> Yes. >> Councilman Moroni. >> Yes. >> Mayor Benco. >> Yes. >> Reports with council. Councilwoman Donovan. >> Thank you, Mayor. Um the last harbor
commission we discussed different solutions for the floating dock over near friends of bar Belmar Harbor which is damaged from the winter. So uh and we continue to discuss solutions for long-term parking uh problems that have plagued the marina. The environmental
commission, you'll notice that the uh community energy plan is back on the agenda today. Um my understanding is that uh we've had plenty of resident input that they have the council has met with uh the members of the environmental commission themselves and we're very
excited about this plan. It is again um a plan to drive energy efficiencies, cost savings and greener energy used throughout the burrow and it was developed with support from sustainable energy along with a lot of help and input from our burough leaders like DPW, police, fire, burrow and wreck. So thank
you to everyone uh for all your work for that plan. Um at the last environmental commission meeting too we we had a joint meeting with Shadri uh where we took our first step actually towards an official plan for mccclary park and the river road neighborhood by forming a park
subcommittee during the meeting. Uh this subcommittee will look at short and long-term initiatives to improve the area with an emphasis on its natural beauty, the environmental sustainability and recreational enjoyment for visi residents and visitors alike. So, I look forward to updating you further on that.
That's it for me. Thank you, mayor. >> Uh, thank you, Council President Kenny. >> Thank you, Mayor. Uh, recreation Dempsey Park basketball courts are completed. The lights are finished and bleachers will be installed soon. So, that's that that was all by grant money that we were
able to receive. So, that is coming to a close, which is great. Tommy B and the Deep Blue Sea will be performing this Friday, weather permitting. and uh camp actually started yesterday and junior guards will be starting this coming up
Monday the 29th. Um the shade tree commission wants to let everyone know that the main street and 10th a fertilization of all the canopy trees is complete and phase two of the shade planting shade tree planting is scheduled for um the fall along the rest
of Main Street. Um shade tree took is also part of the planning board technical advisory board. So they help with advising the planning board on tree removal and recommendations for these new or larges scale projects that are coming into town. So they're very much a part of that. On June 10th, we applied
for a $25,000 New Jersey urban community forestry grant and that's going to support pruning and remov removal of hazardous trees. So I'll keep you up to date of when we hopefully will be awarded that grant. And at the last joint Shade Tree Environmental Commission meeting, we did have Bill
Brash who was our arborist that we secured for this year to do a presentation on the five-year plan tree plan for all of Belar. So you can see that actually online I believe at on the sheet tree commission as well. And that is all I have. >> Thank you uh Councilman Delasio.
>> Thank you. Uh on the planning board uh last week on the 15th I happened to miss the meeting but I got a good um summary and got we'll have a chance to watch it. We are currently reviewing our master plan. Um, instead of the planning board going through this and doing this alone with the seven of us or eight of us and
our legal, we actually broke into broke up into commissions. So, we're each going to be meeting with some department heads, some other commi committees, and um reporting back to to the board to see how the master plan is working for us right now and what changes could be
needed for the future. So, I think that was um a great way for the meeting to be run and I'm looking forward to those reports. Um the Harbor Commission meeting from last week, we did also look into uh potential gate operation upgrades. Uh so, we are still thinking
about ways to get get a different machine that doesn't um require the tokens uh be it an app or maybe electronic payments even uh to get the tokens. Uh so hopefully that will improve our vote ramp. Uh the next meeting Oh, sorry. The next meeting for
the planning board is on July 20th and I did not write down the Harbor Commission meeting. If you have that one written down, let fill it in, Miss Donovan. >> I'm electronic nowadays, man. >> Okay, let's go to uh Council Member Ron.
>> Thank you, Mayor. Um the American the ADA uh committee met um last week. Um we are all set for the July 14th um fair in conjunction with the um the camp. If there's anybody who's willing to
volunteer, there's certainly going to be um looking for that. So just you could contact me separately. Um they have a really nice program. I didn't realize how advanced it was. I've got a whole list of items that they're planning on doing here. So it looks like it's going to be a really nice event. That's all I
have. >> Okay. Uh I'm going to put on a little presentation kind of summarizing the high points of the of the uh of the last three years. >> Actually, mayor, may I make one more announcement? Sorry, I just I forgot to announce next week on the 3rd is Raising
Four's um and the fireworks in Belmar. July 3rd, the fireworks are this year. That's Friday next week. Uh Raising Four is proud to present an unforgettable unforgettable evening celebrating America and honoring the veterans who protect it in support of rebuilding warriors. is the besties kickoff at 400
p.m. This is over by um uh Taylor Pavilion and there's going to be a beer garden and food trucks courtesy of Macan's restaurant from Lake Ko. So come early, enjoy great food, cold drinks, and make it a night with your family. The light show begins at 8:45 be uh viewed from the grass across the street
from Taylor Pavilion. And then the um the fireworks will be shortly thereafter when it's at dusk. and the donations. Anyone who would like to donate those does provide fully trained service dog to a veteran in need. So please do look out for where you can donate to raising for there is I think it's on our
website. So I'm sorry that's it. >> Okay, I'm going to move down to the table so that I can actually see what the presentation looks like and um I invite everyone to go into the audience. I think it's easier to see than So the mouse works.
>> Okay, there we go. There we go. helps you. Let's You can see that I don't use this much anymore. I don't want that either. Oh, I see what's happening. It's showing
me a player view, but it's fine as long as you're seeing that. Um, before before I start, I I just really want to do a brief uh introduction. uh and um
some personal comments. Uh before I start, you know, pointing out the achievements of the past three years, uh these results are are really the work of many individuals working together to improve our community.
First, I'd like to thank all the burough's municipal employees for their service. Uh, I too was a municipal employee at one point, so I know I I know what it feels like and I know the stress that they go through when
administrations change. But, um, you know, these are the people who keep uh things running on a day-to-day basis from year to year and from administration to administration. I'd like to give also a special thanks
to our our police department, fire department, and EMS staff who keep us safe and we can count on them to be there when we need them. So, you know, thanks to them. Also, and we are also
fortunate to have experienced department heads such as uh Chief Scott, Billy MTO, Lorraine Karafa, Marshall Boxer, Barry Tro, and Dave Halman. And if I forgot anybody, I apologize, but you know, you
can whisper it and tell me before I finish. Um, I also have uh to give a special thanks to our municipal clerk, April Clauddio. April does multiple jobs from clerk to planning board and zoning
board secretary. She's there to oversee and prepare for our elections. She responds to opra requests uh which I'll probably starting soon after after I leave. But um she is a wealth of
knowledge and and knows a lot about the burough's history. And and the thing that I think makes her most special is that she is nonpartisan in a true sense of the word, meaning she's impartial,
unbiased, and fair. And I want to thank you for your help. Finally, looking back, you know, I realized that that I actually did have a management team. We never called it that, but it always seemed like we were together trying to solve our problems. And there are three people I would like
to just talk about briefly. The first is Jim Morris, our burough engineer. And almost from day one, Jim has been part of our my own official team. Uh he was invaluable in dealing with the D and our problems at at the beach with the uh
with the bathroom trailers. uh the Horizon 5G pole issues, uh all of our redevelopment projects, the marina improvements, all the grant compliance. Uh you know, many of you may not know, but you know,
getting a great rate, but there's a lot of work involved uh to uh to get it first to apply and then when you get it to follow all the rules so that you ultimately get the money that you want. And like I said, I can go on and on, but
you know, I've always found Jim to be accessible, competent, he provides good advice, and he like all of us, you know, work to improve the burrow. So, thanks a lot, Jim.
The second one is our burough attorney, George McIll. Uh, I believe, you know, having a local attorney, uh, that actually grew up in Belmore was an added benefit because, um, you know, obviously he had some history about things that,
you know, went on in the past and that helped sometimes fill in and complete the picture on certain things and it added, you know, was an added benefit to his legal advice and um, and, you know, I thank you for that. The the other
thing I I always admired about George was his ability to mediate and resolve conflicts fairly and Lord knows we had a number of those almost starting from day one which um you know don't make the headlines but you know they involve
people in the town uh you know they involve you know two people having the same boat slips you know stuff like that that that needs to be resolved and needs to be resolved fairly and I know we we could always count on on George to do that. Uh he's actually convinced me on
more than one occasion that my um my legal solution to the problem was really not the best solution. So uh you know I I thank him for that. Uh and as I think we all know in the council, he works well with the council members. He's always made himself available to answer
questions and give them advice. So um I want to thank George for everything HE'S DONE. UH lastly is business administrator Kevin Kaine. And uh back in December 2022
uh we had a selection committee and they you know we interviewed a lot of different people for a lot of different professional positions. and our selection committee uh chose Kevin because of his experience in government along with his educational achievement
in earning an MPA, a masters in public administration. Uh when I met Kevin in December, you know, I knew initially and that he was the right choice for Belmar. Most of the things that we have accomplished that
you're going to see in the next few minutes, Kevin was a part of. Uh he's dedicated as I was in doing what was the best for Belmar. Uh he got things done by bringing people together to resolve problems, work on projects, handle
conflicts, and all with a positive attitude. In my opinion, he's the best administrator we've had in Belmore in many years, and I'm indebted to him for his service and friendship. So uh I was lucky to have this team and uh interestingly enough there was a
group of individuals who do not did not know each other since before 2023 and we had never worked together and who by chance had the same outlook and philosophy on how good government works who had no personal agendas and believed
in fairness, integrity and doing what was best for Belmore and his residents. So, thanks to all of you. We did a great job. And now on to the show. Okay. The first big issue that that we had to deal with obviously was the um
the affordable housing and this I feel is the major achievement of the administration. um we were able to do in three years what two administrations failed to do over 10 years and uh we were up against
the deadline and anyone who says that you know we did not have to do it the way we did it uh is just plain wrong and you know after I leave the mayor's position I would be happy to debate or
talk to anyone on uh on this issue because I know uh we did what we needed to do and and we did it the right way. Uh everything I'm going to be presenting here tonight is is this is just an overview. This was all presented in
detail in the past. We had uh three four public meetings here with our redevelopment attorneys explaining uh the whole process of of what the town had to go through in order to to get the um the approval the judicial approval
for the third and fourth rounds which we did get. So, um, you know, I'm I'm very happy of that. Uh, the the the thing that was the problem was we were we were without a plan, we were open to
build a remedy suits and uh and also without a plan, the affordable uh housing trust fund could not be funded. So that meant that all of the building that occurred while we did not have that trust fund, we lost all of those fees.
Those fees did not go into the trust fund. So you know, in my estimation, we lost hundreds of thousands of dollars because of that. So, a lot of people didn't know that there were pre-existing projects on the board
uh and they were waiting to start in 2023. Okay. So that's why it was critical, you know, for us to file this DJ or declaratory judgment action is we wanted to get it in before we could uh before
they could file a builder's remedy suit. And it wasn't surprising that they intervened in our in our DJ action. Uh the projects as you see on the board here were the Marku built project which
is the one that's going to be across the street here and next to and next to Klein's. Uh initially that project was going to be built with 131 units and zero affordable housing units. Uh the Repetti Russo development, you may have
heard of the Mediterranean project. That's what it was called as had many names but that was the first one. uh located at Route 35 between 8th and 10th Avenues. That included 250 units and zero affordable housing units. The
Sackman project located at 708 710 Main that was 45 units with zero affordable housing. And then the 61310th Avenue was 12 units with zero affordable housing units. Okay.
these developments were ready to be built. Those were the those were the the um the figures on what on what was going to be there. And I in in doing uh you know preparation for this I came across
this I don't know I might have done this on a on a spreadsheet but you know I I looked at those numbers and you can see here you know again the same four projects uh before you know before they uh
got into affordable housing. The total units of those four projects was 438 units with zero affordable units. The final count, and let me just make a point, the final count including the
affordable housing was 405 units. Okay, so the unit count went down by 33 units and we actually added 56 affordable housing units. Okay, so I I think I think that's a pretty good record.
uh for us. Uh and actually you'll see under that there were three three developments 500 Main, 800 Main, and 10th Avenue Associates that had let's say in name only affordable units uh
which total 12. Um those units were um were not what we call deed restricted and they weren't rented according to the to the um affordable housing regulations and we wanted to count those units towards our
towards the number that we had to reach. So, we had to convince the fair share housing center that we would um you know, we would take action to get those 12 units uh back into the uh so to say the fold so that they would be deed
restricted and would be filled uh according to the uh the affordable housing law. And I believe uh and I'm going to ask April to just confirm. I believe we've already have a lottery we on three units in the uh in the 10th
Avenue Associates. >> So three of those you three of those six units that were vacant are now being processed through the affordable housing system so that you know someone will will be able to to to get that unit that
apartment uh which they probably wouldn't have gotten before. I think there was one other one too. Was there another one? There's three units. I don't remember the buy, but then there's another lottery next week for two more units. >> Okay. So, you know, in in a short time
now, we're going going to offer to people who who need housing um housing in in in that in 10th Avenue Associates. So, we're up to like five. And we were lucky that Fair Share Housing allowed us to to count those
units. So you can see um you know we got the 56 units, we got the 12 units, and then because they're all rentals, this is the this is the way the the law works. Uh we got a credit for for 23 units. So we reached our number of 91
units for the third round. That that's a big deal to to have done that. As we were doing this though, you know, I I kind of requested that the redevelopment attorneys take a look at some of the existing redevelopment
agreements. And this is what they found. Uh they found that we had three developments that were having pilots, but when we when they when the attorneys looked at the pilots, they realized that they were not um they
were not following the the actual pilot law. Right. So, um, so we had to go back and basically say to them, you know, you're you're not getting a pilot, you're not getting a tax exemption, uh, because, you know, it
wasn't it it's not in accordance with the law. So, uh, again, you'll see we we resolved the the first two with Eastport and Newman Ventures by just eliminating their tax exemption. And the and the
third one uh Satchum Pond was as I said was almost complete. So uh we were able to include in the project that he's not eligible for a tax exemption or pilot in his certificate of completion. The the other thing we discovered
recently and I'm not going to belabor this but there are there are some units uh some developments that had not been doing uh giving us the correct amounts of of pilot payments and you know it's currently subject to a lawsuit and
settlement negotiations are in progress but that in general is being resolved in the favor of the burrow and as I said before the affordable housing trust fund when I came in was at $0. Right now, the current balance is
approximately $1.3 million. And that's because the the development on uh Route 35 and I it's called Vermela now, but it was the it's the Russo Repetti development. as part of their um approval, uh they have to they had to
give $2 million into the fund, but $1 million is being uh put in now and then I believe at the end of the construction uh then there will be another million dollars put into the affordable housing trust fund.
>> Moving on to infrastructure improvements. Uh, I know you can't really see this map too well, but um, what you have here is we we realized and Jim Orus, you know, thought it was a great idea to we needed
a complete road and utility inventory and, you know, working with um, Billy Mau and our people in the water utility, he actually completed that inventory and placed it on a map with all kinds of nice colors and grids and and whatever.
And when you look at it closely, you'll see in the in the legend that there are um there are uh kind of priorities laid out in in the map. So um you know, it was very essential that this was was
done. And as I said, it's on it's on the website if you uh if you want to take a look at it. And obviously these things are are subject to to review, subject to change, but you know, we we kind of now know, you know, the condition of our
streets and the condition of the the the water and the sewer lines beneath them. And this will play into the uh the uh you know, the plan on how we move forward in in, you know, making improvements. We can't do everything at once. So, we kind of have to plan years
out to uh to um to do the things that we need to do for our water utilities and our streets. Um we got a lot of projects done in in three years and you know these are just some of them uh that uh that have been
completed. Um I'm not going to go through them all. You can you can read them all. Um the one that says the beach and dune maintenance permit modification that you'll see that was re that's related to the the D issue that we had when we when we first came in. Um and I
I guess I'll jump a little bit and I'll say you know we were we were under a uh a caffer permit that required that we remove the beach trailers. Okay. And uh so that so ultimately and I don't want to jump ahead but you know that's part
of our our solution to that problem. We had to do a permit modification. Um in 24 you know we we replaced the the doors and I I didn't know exactly what that meant but that's the doors that were facing the um the ocean. All those doors
that used to leak were replaced with windows and at the same time we created a year- round bathroom make by making the concession area smaller. Um there were upgrades to the marina which were
needed badly. Um the Silver Lake gazebo unfortunately you know was to the point where if you got a strong wind it was going to blow off its foundation. So that needed to be reconstructed. And of course the the piano at Piano Plaza,
which um you know was a was a great project in conjunction with the uh the Belmore Arts Council. And I think you may remember it was last May that we had um David Sanchez here to to play and
honor his mother uh who uh taught him how to play the piano and they and they lived in Belmar at the time. Um, same thing in in for for 2025. You know, the big the big project uh was the fuel dock and piling replacement project. The fuel
dock was um was on its way out. Unfortunately, we had to spend money in 2023 to make emergency repairs to keep it afloat. Uh but finally uh we were able to to fix it. And um that was a
that was a big deal because the the marina is a revenue producing part of of the burrow and you want to make sure that you know people can come in and and get their boats fueled and and want to you know fill up the uh the slips that we have and I don't think we ever have
any problem filling that up. Uh other things that you might not realize happened, the library, uh they replaced the windows in the front, which was a a kind of big job because they they replaced them with windows that look exactly like the ones that they took
out. And uh the the exterior was repainted recently and the front door was replaced. And as we speak, uh the basketball reconstruction is is I think on on schedule. Uh I think the only thing that we're waiting for are the the
lights to to be put and the bleaches but uh you know that has also been done. Uh there are a few things that have been done this year in 2026. I just highlighted them. Main Street uh Fifth Avenue main street to sea street and the
8th Avenue sewer lining project. Uh I just want to make the point again to people that I was not involved in picking the Fifth Avenue. that was that was uh done from the prior administration when they applied for the grant. So, it had nothing to do with me
and I would actually think if it was it would have been another street that would have been done that my street um and some of the things that that are that are on the on the um on schedule and you see what we you know a lot of it is planning. You have to plan it out
because a lot of these projects were are being funded partly by grants and you know and grants, you know, take time and you have to kind of like push out into the future to uh to get things done.
And these are the grants uh that that we've received. This is just page one. Obviously, I'm not going to go through them all. Uh but we we received more than $7 million worth of grants which I
think is outstanding FOR I will point out as I know someone will go through this and they'll look at the first line here and they'll say, "Oh, that first one was for the Belmore Housing Authority." And yes, it was. But I think we need to take credit for that
because I know uh Councilwoman Ronda worked very hard with them to give them. So So uh you know this is phenomenal and this is what permitted us to do many of the projects that we uh that we had on
tap. So and there were other significant events that that occurred. Um I'm not going to go through all of them, but uh on the D issue, you know, it was it was
clear to us when we um when we came in that the D did not regard us here in Baltimore with very high regard uh because there were there were issues uh with with the burrow and the D. And I'm not saying that the
burrow was wrong or right, but um it it got to the point where the burrow was filing a you know a request for an administrative hearing. So you know every they were not they were not very friendly to us initially but um
through you know through Jim Orus we we were able to kind of make inroads with the D and uh we we got to the point where we um well first of all we never removed the trailers because that was the in the in the uh in the D permit
that we got that was a definitely something they wanted. You can see up here there were three things. Uh the the permit required that we within six months permanently remove all six bathroom trailers. Okay, so that was you know that was in May. So they're looking
at you know six months from May you through the summer. That was not going to happen. In fact, I remember sending them a letter in April saying, you know, with all due respect, you know, we're going to try to help and work with you as much as possible, but we are not going to have a summer without bathroom
trailers on the beach. So, um, fortunately, they they didn't do anything to us. Um, uh, within and then the second condition was within 45 days, uh, they wanted the locations of all sanitary sewer lines located on the
beach. and with six months within six months remove or cap all sanitary sewer lines and obviously these are the lines that go to the bathrooms. They did not want us to have sewer lines on the beach. So we would have to remove those
too. And then the within 45 days submit a plan depicting all the waterline service routes and then again this was related to the the bathrooms on the beach. All right. Now, we we were um
you know, we were very fortunate because through GMOs, we we were able to get them to listen to us in terms of coming up with a compromise because we, you know, in talking amongst ourselves, I had mentioned that, you know, I knew that there were structures on the
boardwalk in the past. Um, and you know, once Jim heard that, he was like, "Well, let's see if we could find out, you know, where they were." Because the plan was if we could if we could identify them, we might be able to get the D to say, "Well, these were since they were
existing and they predated CAFRA, you know, they're not going to fall under the regulations." And that's exactly that's exactly what happened. Um, we were able to, uh, you know, well, there were structures on 5th, 8th, 11th, 16th,
and 19th avenues. Uh, and they pretty much agreed if we could prove they existed, uh, they may exempt them from its the requirements of the caffer permit. Of course, unfortunately, as we all know, Third Avenue never had a structure on
it. So, that's why uh there the third avenue bathroom had to be removed. Um but we were able to um prove the existence of the of the of the you know five of the six sites and ultimately
they approved our modification request and you know that was pretty significant. Um, just to go back, well, the the thing that was interesting with that too is when you read the final career permit,
it it refers to three trailers that that are approved, and that's because we they saw us taking positive action to put permanent bathrooms on the boardwalk. So, the fact that we put a permanent bathroom on Fifth Avenue, uh, really, I
think, helped us persuade them to to exempt the other three. and the and the permanent bathroom on 16th Avenue. I think it was all it was it all worked well because they saw that we were trying to eliminate the bathrooms as much as we could and you know we were
able to prove that there were existing structures. So we now have a a uh modified CFA permit. Uh and show you how much time it took. I think we finally got the last one was December 25th, 2025
when they finally and it expires in May of 2027. So, we're good until 2027. So, um that's the story of the of the D and the and the bathroom trailers. um other things that have happened and I'm not going to go through through all of
these because you know there are plenty of you know for the 5G polls um I think we all know we were surprised I know the burough administrator was surprised when he got the call that they wanted to know what color the polls should be when they were putting them up
and that started this whole this whole process of uh you know reaching out to Verizon finding out what happened finding out that we had a consent judgement against us which said that the the 20 polls were going to be put up on Ocean Avenue in the right of way right in
front of the boardwalk. Um and you know in looking at the looking at the law and and and what they had given us in terms of the consent judgment it looked at first that it was pretty bleak in terms of trying to stop them. Fortunately, uh
a closer look at that at the that consent order, we found out that they had a they had a uh a something appended to it. It was a uh right of way from the county and they said, "Well, we're doing this because based on this right of way that we have with the county, but when
you looked at the right of way though, the right of way had nothing to do with Belmar." So, that was the first problem. The second problem was we didn't own the rightway. So, um, we, you know, when we when we got the request for a caffer permit, uh,
our burough council sent it back to them and said, "We can't sign it because we don't own it." So, a lot of things happened. Eventually, the county got involved. We got, you know, through the efforts of councilwoman um, Kenny and Council Donovan, you know, the
grassroots movement started. for many there were many uh John MEETINGS other municipalities got involved and other individuals got involved and lawsuits more those lawsuits were filed in the federal court and uh and I think
for the most part that's where it remains but you know the the the polls are not there and their their reasons for needing the polls back in 2020 when they started with this obviously has disappeared because I I don't know
of any complaints from anyone being on the beach that they can't, you know, they can't use their phones or whatever. Even though the other day I did try to go on YouTube and I had a problem trying trying to get on and I said, "Well, I shouldn't be on my phone." But um so that was that was the the the 5G issue.
And again, there are documents on the website, the complaint, the uh, you know, the consent order and a couple of other ordinances and things that were passed that we had to replace to get us all in line with our with our small cell
service. Um, EMS was another another issue. Um, at the end of the contract, two of the municipalities that were with us, Seagurt and Masswan, pulled out saying they weren't going to renew, leaving us and Lake Ko. And it was um,
we again had presentations. It seemed clear to the council that we did not want to move to the county. PMS and Rob de Martin worked, you know, tirelessly working the numbers with Kevin Kaine
and um basically through their efforts, we were able to um keep uh the Belmore Lake EMS uh funded with um and not have to move to the uh to the the county
system. Uh the next thing obviously most recently the 1200 Main Street contamination removal we have a new LSRP who's looked at the uh at the situation. Uh there was just two or three meetings
ago a presentation. There are more areas that need to be Thank you. there are more areas that need to be um checked out. Uh and uh we have a plan or they have a plan to uh to remediate that and
hopefully after the remediation we will have a a piece of property that is uncontaminated and ready to be used or sold or whatever. That's you know that's a decision up to future councils and the public to do that. Uh some of the good
things, you know, positive things uh that I thought of were obviously we moved the seafood festival back to Silver Lake. Um for our our council woman, Ronda, started a program for veterans and high school
graduate banners. Um we we finally issued free season badges for veterans. Prior to this, they would have to go every day to get a daily badge and um and actually this year they have a special badge. It's not just a regular badge. It's just a badge that says, you
know, for veterans. So, I think that was a a good move. Now, we just recently had the AVP volleyball. They're very happy coming to Belmore. They love it here and I think we're going to see them again in the future. and a little thing but a big
thing, you know, we we said we wanted we needed to use the Taylor Pavilion for the residents and I think we we opened it up. Uh we worked with the with the library because they have so many events uh and recreation has so many events
that sometimes took place in the gym. Uh and I think you know the whole fact that we utilized uh the you know the the Taylor pavilion for the public is is an important thing and I and I hope that that continues in the future.
And finally, we're at final comments. And let's see. Again, um I want to thank also all the volunteers, um that give up their time to sit on the various boards,
commissions, and committees. Um there are a lot of them. Uh and it's, you know, it's uh it's something that requires a commitment. Uh, I know I I sat on the planning board, you know, and and the library board and, you know,
it's it's rewarding, but as we all know, sometimes it's like, oh, I got to get over I got to go to the meeting tonight, you know, it's like, but, you know, they do it and they do it willingly and I think they deserve, you know, a lot of thanks. Um, I want to also call out, and
I don't mean to offend anybody, but I know I see Diane here. The environmental commission has done an outstanding job this year with THE and I think, you know, I think again, I think we we created an atmosphere uh
within the burrow that I think encourages committees to kind of do things uh on their own. and and and and and I hope we we did enough and for for that. I'm sure we weren't perfect, but you know, that's the whole idea of having these committees and commissions.
Um I also like to thank obviously all the residents who initially chose me as the mayor and have supported me uh through the last three and a half years. Even though I was very grateful when I came out on the bench and I only saw like 10 people in the audience, I said,
"That's great. I know. I know we're we're on a good trend here." And lastly, I need to thank my wife Marlene who's sitting here. She was my advisor, contact, and therapist. And it's only because of her
and her ever positive outlook that I am still sitting here today. So, just want to say that I'm honored. I was honored to be your mayor. It's not something I expected. I got a CHANCE to get out of here.
Thank you. We did that. >> They gave me a chair. A broken chair. >> That's an omen. Careful. >> Careful. You >> know, they got these new chairs like two
meetings ago. >> Let's uh let's move on to the public session for the consent agenda. >> Anyone has a comment or question about a resolution on the agenda, please support and remember to state your name and address. Linda Shares, Fourth Avenue. Could you
explain to me where the reduction in the cost of the 16th Avenue uh bathrooms coming from? I guess I saw it was a price reduction. >> Yeah, there's a resolution on saying there's a price reduction. I'm going to
have to punt to Jim if you know. Did it was it >> go? >> Mr. Mayor, there the change order has several um there's some additions and and some some some subtraction some subtractions from the contract resulting
in a net change order for change order one. Um so it basically is changes that were made. Um we worked with public works. Uh for example, there was a a flooring change. There were some door changes. There were changes made that
improved the project but actually reduced the cost. Hope that helps. >> Well, kind of scary because I know with the uh Taylor pavilion when they changed the doors that was not a good thing. So, I hope we have better luck with those when it's completed.
>> Well, you know, I think it's it's not unusual for for these types of things to to occur. And I don't think I don't think it would be uh reasonable to think that changes result in a less you know a less um
>> it's not you know that's my point >> I I'd like to point out I believe the reduction means that we have used so we had $100,000 um allowance or a contingency in the project. Does that mean we used what's the reduction?
$8,000 something like that. Some mean we used $92,000 worth of the the overages without increasing the contract and they're giving back eight. >> Some of some of the um some of the allowance was used for the for the
change in the pilings because that was deemed to be an unforeseen condition due to the soil conditions changing. Um, but I believe the change order that you have now, I forgive me because I don't have the numbers memorized, but correct me if I'm wrong, Billy, we made some changes to
the flooring, to the walls, um, and doors, which ultimately, like for example, um, I think the hardware that was specified was somewhat of a specialty item. We worked with public works to select a hardware system that
was much more economical. Um so there was many things that we've looked at the architect came out with a set of plans and specifications. Um but during the process of going through and looking at options and the builder's done a really good job with that um could tell when he
when he as he's going through and building the project and submitting in his shop drawings for review. We're working with public works and the architect to identify if we can make some changes that could save the burrow money but still deliver the product that the burrow wants. I don't know if you
have any. >> Yeah, I think a big portion of it and I do have it in front of me now because I I did request it and it was like instead of floor tile, they used epoxy flooring which is going to be more durable and longlasting with the sand. Instead of wall tile, they used FRP floor FP wall
paneling which is what we use in commercial kitchens things and it's significant less expensive than tile. So, it's actually more durable and a better product for something like this. So that was almost I mean there was an $86,000 reduction in in the floor and wall tile just in those two and then there were a couple increases uh outside
of that. >> Thank you. Any other comments? >> Eugene Premer, 4th Avenue. I just have a a quick question on uh I have a quick question on resolution
2026-138. Uh this is extending uh a uh conditional uh redeveloper for 701. What is it? 7th Avenue. uh incorporated. Um my question there is is just basic is
there any commercial development uh involved with this uh proposal >> the um >> or is it 100% >> project in I don't think there's any commercial involved in that. No, >> there's no commercial. >> No.
>> Okay. Thank you. Any other comments? Okay. >> Can I have a motion to close the public session? >> Motion. >> Second. >> All in favor? >> I. >> Okay.
>> Can I have a motion to amend the consent agenda to remove uh resolution 2026 136 so it can be voted on separately? Uh, Council McDonald, >> yes. Council >> McKini, >> yes. >> Councilman Delasio,
>> yes. >> Councilman Moroni, >> yes. >> Mayor Masio, >> yes. >> Okay. Can I have a motion to approve the resolutions on the consent agenda as amended? >> Motion. >> Second. >> Councilwoman Donovan, >> yes.
>> Counciloman Kiny, >> yes. Councilman Delasio. >> Yes. >> Councilman Moroni >> abstain. >> I'm sorry. Um, >> yes. >> Mayor Besco. >> Yes. >> Okay. Uh, next is um, can I have a
motion to approve resolution 2026136? >> Motion. >> Second. >> Councilwoman Donovan. >> Yes. >> Councilwoman Kenny. >> Yes. Councilman Delasio. >> Yes. >> Council member Moroni. >> Mayor Besco. >> Yes.
>> Okay. >> Next we're on to ordinances. Um the first one is ordinance 202611. This is an ordinance amending chapter 25 uniform construction code fees. This is open for public comment. If anyone would like to speak on this ordinance, please
step forward and state your name and address. Can I have a motion to close the public session or the public hearing? >> Motion. >> Second. >> Favor. >> I >> I. >> And can I have a motion to adopt ordinance 202611?
>> Motion. >> Second. >> Uh, Councilwoman Donovan. >> Yes. >> Councilwoman Kenny, >> yes. >> Councilman Delasio, >> abstain. >> Councilman >> yes. Mayor Becca Fusco. >> Yes.
>> Is first reading and introduction on ordinance 2023. This is a bond ordinance providing for the 6th Avenue sewer replacement project appropriating 720,000 and authorizing the issuance of bonds in the amount of 720,000. Do we have a
motion to offer for first reading? >> Motion. >> Second. >> Councilwoman Donovan. Yes. >> Counciloman McKini. >> Yes. >> Councilman Delasio. >> Yes. >> Council Moroni. >> Yes. >> Mayor Basco. >> Yes.
>> And next one is ordinance 202614. An ordinance amending sections of chapter 29 water sewer utility department. Do we have a motion to offer for first reading? >> Motion. >> Second.
>> Councilwoman Donovan. >> Yes. >> Council McKenna. >> Yes. >> Councilman Delasio. Yes. >> Council member Moroni. >> Yes. >> May Pascal. >> Yes. >> Now we're on to the regular public session. If anyone would like to speak, please step forward and remember to
state your name and address first. >> Again, fourth Avenue. I have two questions. And one is about the piano in the plaza. How does it work? I thought it was supposed to be available to play at any time. >> Has anybody
>> I believe I believe that's the way it works. >> Has anybody music from it from somebody sitting? >> It does have hours. >> Yes. >> So if you What is What are the operating hours? 10 to 9. >> Play us a song. >> 10 to 10.
>> I've seen people sitting at it. >> Learn how to play. >> You haven't seen that yet. My second one question is with $7 million in grants. >> How many of those have been completed
or and then how many have been abandoned because we didn't have matching funds to get them within the time frame? It's a lot of grants. >> I don't I don't recall any of them not being utilized um in my I mean without going
>> some are still queued up for future use. Yeah, some of those grants are are moving forward, but to my knowledge, I don't think we've uh using your term abandoned any of the any of the grants. >> Well, they expire because you don't get
the >> I'm not sure. I'm not sure that we'd have to get back to you on that, but I'm I don't recall off the top of my head. >> So, I'm kind of curious. That's you know, we need to find money to complete the the match. I guess it's important for the town to
like look at a way to do that. >> Yeah. No, we we generally find, you know, have the money to to do the match. >> Yeah. >> We got to make sure we find all the money. >> We do. >> We do. Or else we don't have we don't apply for the grant. I mean, we know
ahead of time how much the match is going to be. So, we're not going to apply for something if we know we don't have the money to do the match. It's just common sense. >> I know. Transparency. I'd like to see where it's coming from. and on these
grants as we're moving forward. >> What would you like to see exactly? >> Well, I was surprised to hear we have $7 million worth of grants. >> So, >> well, they're they're there. You can uh >> you can No, you can just, you know, I'll
ask April to put this up on the website and you can uh you can look at them and >> that would be Thank you. >> You're welcome. Well, that was fun. This reminds me of your first meeting, Mr. Mayor. >> Hi, I'm John Walsh, 11:01 B Street. This
is >> Did you say your name again? I didn't hear nothing. >> John Walsh, 1101B. Go ahead. >> And Maria Rondaro, 1246 Pine Treeway. Um, first of all, happy 4th of July and happy America 250 to the mayor council.
Um, I'm here as the Belmar Democratic chair and I just have a little thing we would like to present to you. This is supposed to be a wooden plaque, but it's not in. So, just forgive us. It's coming tomorrow, right on time. You know how this works. >> But, uh, Mayor Becca Fusco, on behalf of
the Belmar Democratic Committee and many of your supporters who are here tonight, I'd like to thank you for your years of service to the burrow of Belmar. Belmar. Um, public service is not is often a thankless job, but tonight we want to recognize your impact you've had on this town and present you with this small token of appreciation. As many of you
know, I've had the privilege of working as the mayor's assistant for two years. Um, and we did a lot, especially my first week when I got CO 19. And probably most of you know that because it was Oprah requested almost immediately, my sick time. So, you can imagine it was a great time working
here. But during that time, I got to see firsthand how much thought and effort and care went into decisions and we helped turn the tide from memorializing the lives lost during the CO 19 memorial with the pandemic down on Third Avenue with Ramy's hearts to a transforming
tale of the pavilion like you mentioned to a true community center. It's now regularly used and library events and community gatherings and projects that continue to benefit residents for years to come. I've also remember working with Margaret on my last day here uh creating
an easier access for veterans through the veterans badge program which you mentioned. Um I was even late to my farewell party because we were rewriting the former policy on creating a new one and I'm so glad to hear that the um there are dedicated badges with a little red, white, and blue for um this year's
4th of July. Um those moments are not always made with headlines um but they're good ones and important ones and we did that here. Uh we made a difference in people's lives. Um I'm proud to be a small part of that. And mayor, we thank you for your leadership, friendship, and dedication to Belmar. We
wish you good health, health, happiness, and nothing but the best best in years to come. And this is for you. And of course, the first lady of Belmar, if you don't mind me, do a nice little round of applause for them. Thank you. Jerry, we've been through the mill
together. Um, and uh, this has been a a real team effort. This is a very difficult job and we are very proud to have served by you. I'd like to say it's their fault that
I'm here because they they they begged me after my I I ran for office three times. Uh so, you know, if nothing else, I am persistent. But, uh I I need to thank the both of them because they really uh they worked their tails off to
get me elected and I thank you. Hi, good evening. Sharon Russell, 11th Avenue. On behalf of the Belura Library Board of Trustees, we would like to extend our true gratitude for the endless hours with conversations our mayor, Jerry Buckusco, has contributed
to the many successes of our library. His deep interest in the happenings of the library have enabled us to have the opportunity to attend to the needs of our community. It should be noted that he was instrumental in the continuence of our outdoor summer concert which so
many residents look forward to attending and continue to enjoy. We wish him well in his next chapter and we'll have an open door anytime he'd like to return and offer some words of wisdom to our board. Thanks for caring about our library. We send you the best wishes
from the Belmor Library trustees. And actually for for anyone, you know, in the future if there's a if there's an opening on the library board and they're looking for somebody with point, you know, I could be available. >> Have three things. >> First off, um, Councilman Delasio, July
21st is the next harbor commission meeting right after your planning meeting on the 20th. Councilwoman Donovan, I read the article and the co-star, congratulations on all the work that you did working with the environmental committee to get Silver Lake the way it is. Okay.
And last but not least, Mayor Buck Fusco, I wish you the best of luck, health, happiness, and joy. But you didn't put me on a timer tonight. So now the timer is going on you. It's going It's going to moren and you
got to finish within 5 minutes anything she wants. >> That timer works both ways. >> Mr. Deliver, but you got possession of it. >> I'm the Rumble Stillson here.
Oh, Tom Diver at 1000 River Road. Uh, I'm here to talk about once again, gentlemen, you weren't here for this last one a year ago, but you unauthorized the raising of the pride flag. But first, I'd like to give you
some literature. I I Googled I actually did it on a computer by myself and uh I was able to come up with some interesting stuff. As usual, I'm not talk talking about
the idea of homosexuals. I've known homosexuals. I've been one that was really a great man. Outstanding man. I'm proud to have known. Before you continue, I just want to let you know I'm timing you. Started
at 7:40 and we'll be finished at 7:45. >> But as usual, I'm hitting out to hear about that. I'm going to hear about your unauthorized raising the flag and uh
>> and also the the idea of this LGBTQ >> I'm going to ask you. >> Yeah. >> Very gently. Could you go back to the um to the microphone, please? Thank you. >> Thank you. >> Now, the idea here that I'm talking
about is the plus on the end of it. >> The plus is what I'm concerned with. What does that mean? It means
anything goes. >> I'm going to use this. >> Yes. Pedophilia is all right. Correct. >> It's pain, right? >> Is that good? >> That's not what it means. >> We're not we're not
>> No, we have a we have a funeral parlor here. You could you could request a a couple of kadavas and maybe maybe you can put that on demonstration. Maybe a pano plaza and somebody could play a piano
and everything. What are you going to do about that? You were I asked you last year to put it on the ballot. To put it on the ballot, but you wouldn't even do that. You have no respect for the people or you are fearful of the people.
>> It's one of the two. Which is it, Mr. Mayor? Oh, you're not going to answer. Councelor, would you have the defendant to answer the question? >> All both comments have to be referred to me. Yeah. Make up your rules as you go
along, don't you? But what are you going to do about this? For instance, you talk here about education and everything. Are you going to bring one of these pedophiles down to the school and have them demonstrate on one of the boys and girls in there?
>> Is that your idea? You're talking about education, >> huh? >> You ignorant. Shut up and go. >> Oh, hold on. Hold on. No comments, please. >> Ignorant. Oh, he's got his five minutes. >> I I got no argument with that. >> Got 2 minutes and 29 seconds. So,
continue. >> All right. What about that statement, Mr. Mayor? What about >> I've only done this, I think, one other time since I've been mayor. And I'm just going to tell you right now, I am not answering any of your questions. >> See that?
>> This is a comment section only. >> Be careful of the people. That's what you are. says here >> with the plus it means they want to be inclusive and that means everything it's pansexual
that's what I'm arguing about here you want to let pedophiles necro necroilia and beastiality go maybe you could put it on the seafood festival you could have a tent set up
for them next here. Let's put it on the ballot. >> Okay, your time is up. >> My time is up, >> please. Thank you. >> Oh, >> any other person? >> One other thing. >> Your time is up. Your time is up. >> Have an interesting.
>> Anyone else? >> Oh, I mean that in the oriental sense. Scott Avenue. Uh just to end on an upbeat note, I would like to thank the mayor one more time for all those wonderful
garbage cans that you had installed around Silver Lake. It has greatly improved my life and my little dog Tikki's life and we're really enjoying the lake and the park much more. Thank you, mayor. Thank you. Thank you. Just a quick comment on that. I've
walked the same trail and some of those barrels are not lasting as long as we thought they were going to last, but you know, we may need to replace a few of them now. Anyone else? >> Real quick hate to do this at the end, but uh I just want to personally thank
you for this opportunity to be part of your administration, Mayor. um over the past three and a half years. It's been an honor to serve with you council members for the residents of Belmar and um proud of the accomplishments and uh
my wife Ellen and I will cherish our friendship with you and Marleene forever. So I just want to say thank you. Really appreciate it. Anyone else? No one. Only once, only twice. >> Can I have a motion to close the public
session? >> Yes, I'll make that motion. >> Second. >> Second. >> All in favor? >> We have one more item. We have a resolution to adjourn into executive session.
>> Motion. >> Oh, I got it. Got excited there. Whereas it has been determined by the burough council that it is necessary to discuss the following specific matter at its regular meeting in the absence of the public attorney
client privilege matters, contract negotiations and pending and potential litigation. Whereas the open public meetings act permits the burough council to exclude the public from that portion of a public meeting during which such matters are discussed. Now therefore be it resolved that the burough council
shall recess into a private executive session from which the public shall be excluded, that the scope of the executive session shall be limited to the matters as stated, and that those matters discussed in executive session shall remain confidential until such time as the need for confidentiality no
longer exists. And that minutes of the closed session shall be taken and kept free from public review until such time that the need for confidentiality no longer exists. and that the regular meeting of the burough council shall resume after the executive session at which time the burough council may take
action in reference to the topics discussed. Do we have a motion to adopt this resolution? >> Motion second. >> Councilwoman Donovan, >> yes. >> Counciloman Kenny, >> yes. >> Councilman Delasio, >> yes. >> Council >> yes. >> Mayor Michael Pascco,
>> yes. And I just want to put on the record, I will not be attending the executive session as soon as I'm going to assist my wife and and leaving the uh the council chambers.