Residents raise concerns about shared street-sweeper service and sidewalk erosion; council explains procedures and grant work

Two residents addressed the council during the public-comment period with service and maintenance concerns.

Richard Jones (Mountain Street) asked about the shared-service agreement for street sweeping with Seabrite and whether heavier sand accumulation in Seabrite would create disproportionate wear on the borough's equipment. Staff explained the borough is purchasing a new street sweeper; the older vehicle will be provided to Seabrite as part of the shared-service arrangement. Council said the total cost for the street-sweeping arrangement is about $18,000 and that the shared service offsets lifeguard services provided by Seabrite for Bay Beaches.

Rosemary Vali (Shore Drive) said there is substantial sidewalk erosion and broken concrete near Highlands Elementary on the Water Witch segment and described inconsistent responses from the school, county and borough about responsibility. Officials responded that the borough has applied for a grant to replace the sidewalks and that tree plantings at the school are already under way; they clarified DPW cannot remove material from private property, and the code enforcer normally issues a warning and then returns to inspect before issuing fines if a violation persists.

Council members thanked the speakers and provided procedural clarifications about procurement and code-enforcement processes. No formal action was taken; staff noted the grant application and the need to follow up on enforcement where appropriate.