Resident says summons followed lack of restrooms; council says Marine Park bathroom is operational

A Red Bank resident told the borough council on Jan. 1 that a lack of restroom access left him no option but to relieve himself on Christmas Day and that he later received a summons.

"I was issued a summons for having to relieve myself," resident Charles Janjigian said during public comment, identifying himself and giving his Red Bank address. He said New Jersey Transit provided no restroom on the train or at the station and urged the council to ensure facilities are available for visitors and commuters, including users of Marine Park.

Mayor Mary Portman and other officials responded to the concern during the meeting. Mayor Portman said the Marine Park restroom is "fully functioning" and noted that there are plans to make additional ADA improvements; municipal engineer Mike Riser was identified as a person who could provide details after the meeting. The council did not take a formal vote or make a motion specifically about New Jersey Transit or station restroom access during the session.

Janjigian said he will contest the summons in court on Jan. 8. He asked the senator in attendance and town officials to follow up with New Jersey Transit about station restroom availability. Officials encouraged the resident to speak with municipal staff and the engineer following the meeting for more information.

The council's public reply focused on the local park facility and planned upgrades; no immediate municipal policy change or formal directive to pursue NJ Transit was recorded in the meeting minutes.