Cape May public meetings in 2023

Boards & Commissions

The Cape May Zoning Board of Adjustment will hold a meeting on December 28, 2023, to consider several applications. The board will vote on a resolution for a property at 29 Harbor Cove, hear variance requests for properties at 1302 Texas Avenue and 918 Columbia Avenue, and adjourn an appeal for 217 Perry Street to the January 25, 2024 meeting. The meeting also includes public comment and discussion of bills.

• Resolution 12-28-2023:1 for Anthony and Eileen Matarazzo at 29 Harbor Cove, Block 1172, Lot 3.14
• Variance relief (hardship & substantial benefit) for Abby's Cove LLC at 1302 Texas Avenue, Block 1159, Lot 3.02
• Appeal from zoning officer decision for Lisa Caselton at 217 Perry Street, Block 1038, Lot 5.01 (adjourned to Jan 25, 2024)
• Variance relief (hardship, substantial benefit & use) for Dev Jagadesan at 918 Columbia Avenue, Block 1089, Lot 8

The Cape May Zoning Board of Adjustment approved a variance for a reduced roof slope on a screened porch at 1302 Texas Avenue, allowing a 1.2-inch-per-foot pitch instead of the required 4-in-12 minimum. The board also tabled an application for a second-floor porch at 918 Columbia Avenue, requiring the applicant to first seek conceptual approval from the Historic Preservation Commission. Minutes from November 9, 2023, were adopted, and bills were approved.

• Approved roof slope variance for Abby’s Cove LLC at 1302 Texas Avenue (7-0)
• Tabled Dev Jagadesan’s application for 918 Columbia Avenue to April 25, 2024, for HPC review (6-1)
• Adopted November 9, 2023, meeting minutes (5-0)
• Approved payment of bills (7-0)

Boards & Commissions

The City of Cape May Planning Board work session scheduled for Tuesday, December 26, 2023 has been cancelled. This notice is procedural only; no items will be discussed or decided at this meeting. All prior documents and applications remain on file for review at City Hall.

• Planning Board work session cancelled for December 26, 2023

City Council Meetings

The Cape May City Council is holding its regular meeting on December 19, 2023, to consider a consent agenda with multiple resolutions, including accepting a federal emergency management grant, authorizing bids for security camera installation, and awarding contracts for street safety planning and energy efficiency improvements. The council will also appoint a Deputy City Clerk and hear public comments. The meeting is largely procedural, with no major policy changes or public hearings on the agenda.

• Resolution 327-12-2023: Accept Federal FY2023 Emergency Management Performance Grant
• Resolution 330-12-2023: Authorize invitation for bids for security camera installation
• Resolution 331-12-2023: Award contract for Safe Streets & Roads Program Action Plan
• Resolution 337-12-2023: Award bids for energy efficiency improvements through Atlantic City Electric
• Resolution 340-12-2023: Transfer appropriations in the 2023 budget

The council approved a change order for emergency repairs to the Lafayette Street sewer main and a contract for additional engineering work for the same project. It also approved two settlement agreements, one with Daniel Shustack and one resolving 2020 payments from the Affordable Housing Trust Fund. The consent agenda, including multiple resolutions for grants, contracts, and budget transfers, was adopted unanimously.

• Approved Resolution 342-12-2023 authorizing Change Order #4 for Lafayette Street sewer main repairs (5-0)
• Approved Resolution 343-12-2023 authorizing contract with Deblasio & Associates for Lafayette Street sewer engineering (5-0)
• Approved Resolution 344-12-2023 authorizing settlement with Daniel Shustack (4-1, McDade opposed)
• Approved Resolution 345-12-2023 authorizing settlement for Affordable Housing Trust Fund payments (5-0)
• Adopted consent agenda including 15 resolutions on grants, contracts, and budget items (5-0)
• Appointed Brian Turner as Deputy City Clerk via Resolution 326-12-2023 (5-0)

City Council Meetings

The Cape May City Council is holding a special meeting on December 19, 2023, primarily to enter a closed session to discuss the Shustack litigation and a COAH affordable housing matter. The agenda includes a public comment period, but no other substantive items are listed. The meeting is in-person and live-streamed.

• Resolution 325-12-2023 authorizing a closed session under N.J.S.A. 10:4-12 for Shustack litigation and COAH affordable housing matter
• Public comment period limited to 5 minutes per speaker

The City Council held a special meeting that consisted entirely of a closed session to discuss the Shustack litigation and a COAH affordable housing matter. No public portion was held, and no substantive decisions were made in open session. The meeting adjourned after the closed session with two resolutions added to the regular meeting agenda.

• Approved closed session resolution (5-0) for Shustack litigation and COAH affordable housing matter

Boards & Commissions

The Cape May Historic Preservation Commission is meeting to review and decide on numerous applications for changes to properties in the historic district, including window replacements, roof repairs, fences, and other alterations. The agenda also includes new business items such as the reconstruction of Harbor View Park and several other projects. This is a regular meeting with a large number of individual property applications.

• Resolution 2023-47: Cape May Historic District Local Map
• New Business: Harbor View Park Reconstruction (1410 Harbor View Lane)
• New Business: Macedonia Baptist Church front stairs, ADA ramp, railings (630 Lafayette Street)
• New Business: Sawyer's Dowry LLC patio, pool, driveway, walkways, fence, landscaping (655 Hughes Street)
• New Business: Damato Family LLC dormers (1236 Lafayette Street)

The Historic Preservation Commission adopted five resolutions (2023-43 through 2023-47) and approved 33 applications in review, all by 7-0 votes. Final approval was granted for a new home at 1009 Kearney Avenue, conditional on no parking or garages under the house. The commission also issued favorable advisory letters for Harbor View Park reconstruction and pavilion upgrades, and granted conceptual approval for ADA upgrades at Macedonia Baptist Church and final approval for a patio/pool project at 655 Hughes Street.

• Adopted Resolutions 2023-43 through 2023-47 (7-0)
• Approved 33 applications in review (7-0)
• Granted final approval for new home at 1009 Kearney Avenue, conditional on no parking under house (7-0)
• Issued favorable advisory letter for Harbor View Park reconstruction with comments (7-0)
• Issued favorable advisory letter for pavilion siding, decking, railings at 100 Beach Avenue (7-0)
• Granted conceptual approval for ADA ramp and stairs at Macedonia Baptist Church, conditional on 3-inch baluster spacing (7-0)
• Granted final approval for patio, pool, driveway at 655 Hughes Street, conditional on revised parking plan and Shade Tree Commission approval (6-0)
• Granted final approval for dormers at 1236 Lafayette Street (7-0)

City Advisory Committees

The Municipal Taxation and Revenue Advisory Committee is meeting to discuss and receive updates on several financial and operational topics, including shared service agreements, parking funding options, and municipal recycling. The agenda also includes a presentation on Park Mobile by Maureen McDade and discussions on BIDs/SIDs. No formal decisions are listed on the agenda.

• Update on study of shared service agreements
• Options for Park Mobile presented by Maureen McDade
• Discussion of BIDs/SIDs
• Update on municipal recycling
• Update on funding options for parking

Boards & Commissions

The Cape May Planning Board is meeting to discuss a proposed ordinance prohibiting artificial turf, review a minor subdivision application for 1209 Lafayette Street, and consider other matters. The board will also approve minutes from the previous meeting and may take action on any other business.

• Resolution 12-12-2023:1 for 555 Elmira LLC at 555 Elmira Street (Block 1061, Lot 16)
• Minor subdivision application by Mitchell Boettcher and Gaye Pessolano for 1209 Lafayette Street (Block 1061, Lot 83.02) with variance relief for hardship and substantial benefit
• Discussion of Ordinance 524-2023 prohibiting artificial turf in Cape May
• Approval of minutes from November 28, 2023 meeting

Boards & Commissions

The Cape May Shade Tree Commission is meeting to approve tree removal permits, planning/zoning requests, and payments for tree maintenance and sidewalk work. They will also discuss the Shade Tree Ordinance as old business. The agenda includes routine approvals and financial items.

• Approved tree removal permits for 1517 Beach Ave, 624 Broad St, 808 Corgie St, 1125 New York Ave, 1006 Washington St
• Approved planning/zoning requests for 701 Kearney Ave, 1209 Lafayette St (w/conditions), 1302 Texas Ave (w/conditions)
• Denied removal request for 347 Congress St
• Approved payments: Menear's tree maintenance totaling $4,487.50, E. Troiano & Sons sidewalk $2,500, misc bills $305.90
• Discussion of Shade Tree Ordinance

City Council Meetings

The Cape May City Council is meeting to discuss and potentially adopt several items, including the 2024 budget for the Washington Street Mall Business Improvement District, an ordinance amending the police code for state licensure compliance, and a resolution to appoint a city manager. The agenda also includes consent items for contracts and a green fleet policy, plus a public comment period.

• Resolution introducing and approving the 2024 budget of the Washington Street Mall Business Improvement District
• Ordinance 523-2023 amending police code for New Jersey Police Licensure Act compliance
• Resolution 320-12-2023 authorizing contract with Deblasio & Associates for Beach Avenue reconstruction (Broadway to the Cove)
• Resolution 321-12-2023 authorizing contract with Deblasio & Associates for Ohio Avenue reconstruction (Pittsburgh Avenue to Philadelphia Avenue)
• Resolution 324-12-2023 appointing City Manager

The City Council unanimously approved Resolution 324-12-2023 appointing Paul Dietrich as City Manager. The council also adopted a Green Fleet Policy, introduced the 2024 Washington Street Mall BID budget, and awarded contracts for road projects. Several ordinances and resolutions were passed on the consent agenda.

• Appointed Paul Dietrich as City Manager (5-0)
• Adopted Green Fleet Policy (5-0)
• Introduced 2024 Washington Street Mall BID budget of $161,272.63 (5-0)
• Awarded contract to Deblasio & Associates for Beach Avenue reconstruction (5-0)
• Awarded contract to Deblasio & Associates for Ohio Avenue reconstruction (consent agenda)
• Authorized meter infrastructure supplies contract with Core and Main (consent agenda)
• Approved payment of bills (consent agenda)
• Authorized hiring of Parking Management System via competitive contracting (consent agenda)

City Council Meetings

The Cape May City Council is holding a special meeting on December 5, 2023, primarily to vote on a resolution to enter a closed session under New Jersey's Open Public Meetings Act. The closed session will discuss three specific matters: the Shustack litigation, the Welcome Center lease, and Parkmobile. The meeting includes a public comment period, but no other substantive action is listed on the agenda.

• Resolution 316-12-2023 authorizing closed session for Shustack litigation, Welcome Center lease, and Parkmobile
• Public comment period limited to 5 minutes per speaker
• Meeting held in-person at City Hall Auditorium, 643 Washington Street, and streamed live on YouTube

The City Council held a special meeting and immediately entered closed session to discuss Shustack litigation and COAH affordable housing matters. No public comment was heard. The closed session lasted about one hour, after which two resolutions were added to the regular agenda. The meeting then adjourned with no substantive decisions made in open session.

• Approved closed session resolution 325-12-2023 (4-0, Yeager absent)
• Added two resolutions to regular agenda after closed session

Boards & Commissions

The Cape May Planning Board is meeting to review a preliminary and final site plan application from Bogle Investment Properties, LLC for the property at 502 Washington Street (Block 1050, Lot 9). The board will also consider minutes from the November 13, 2023 meeting and discuss any other matters deemed necessary, with possible action.

• Site plan application (preliminary & final) by Bogle Investment Properties, LLC for 502 Washington Street
• Approval of minutes from November 13, 2023 meeting
• Discussion of any other matters deemed necessary by the board

The board voted 7-0 that a combined clothing store and takeout kitchen at 502 Washington Street qualifies as a single permitted use under the C-1 district's 'retail sale of goods or prepared food' category, avoiding the need for a use variance. It then approved preliminary and final site plan approval 5-2, subject to conditions in the engineer's June 29, 2023 memorandum. Two members opposed due to safety concerns about servers crossing Decatur Street.

• Determined that the clothing store and takeout kitchen constitute one permitted principal use under §525-22(m) (7-0)
• Approved preliminary and final site plan for Bogle Investment Properties at 502 Washington Street (5-2)
• Approved meeting minutes of November 13, 2023 (4-0)

City Council Meetings

The Cape May City Council is holding a special meeting on November 21, 2023, at 4:00 PM. The main item is a resolution to enter a closed session to discuss the Broadway Pavilion lease (100 Beach Avenue), Mermaid's Lease (702 Beach Avenue), the City Manager position, and the Deputy City Clerk position. The meeting will also include a public comment period, limited to 5 minutes per person, and will be streamed live on the city's YouTube channel.

• Closed session resolution for Broadway Pavilion lease (100 Beach Avenue)
• Closed session resolution for Mermaid's Lease (702 Beach Avenue)
• Closed session discussion of City Manager position
• Closed session discussion of Deputy City Clerk position
• Public comment period (5-minute limit)

City Council Meetings

The Cape May City Council will hold a regular meeting on November 21, 2023, where it will introduce an ordinance to prohibit artificial turf in the city. The council will also consider several resolutions, including leasing the Broadway Pavilion, awarding contracts for a story map and coastal engineering services, and approving a change order for the Kiwanis Community Park ADA project. Public comments are limited to five minutes per person.

• Ordinance 524-2023: Prohibiting the use of artificial turf in Cape May
• Resolution 279-10-2023: Authorizing a bid for lease of Broadway Pavilion, 100 Beach Avenue (tabled twice)
• Resolution 309-11-2023: Awarding RFP #23-04 for Story Map and Historic Needs Assessment
• Resolution 310-11-2023: Awarding RFP #23-05 for Coastal Engineering and Planning Consultant Services
• Resolution 312-11-2023: Change order #1 to Kiwanis Community Park ADA Compliance Project

The council voted unanimously to table indefinitely an ordinance prohibiting artificial turf in the city. The consent agenda, including resolutions for a Broadway Pavilion lease bid, a story map and historic needs assessment, coastal engineering consultant services, a tax refund, a Kiwanis Park ADA change order, a tax collector change fund increase, a budget revenue insertion, and bill payments, was adopted unanimously. An ordinance amending zoning code for bulk setbacks and non-conforming structures was noted as inadvertently adopted without Planning Board review, but later found consistent with the Master Plan.

• Tabled indefinitely Ordinance 524-2023 prohibiting artificial turf (5-0)
• Adopted consent agenda including 8 resolutions (5-0)
• Noted Ordinance 492-2023 amending zoning code was inadvertently adopted without Planning Board review, later found consistent with Master Plan

Boards & Commissions

The Cape May Historic Preservation Commission is meeting to consider six resolutions and review a large batch of applications for work on properties in the historic district. The agenda includes approvals/denials for items like roofing, windows, HVAC, and fences, plus new business involving demolitions and additions. The meeting is open to the public.

• Resolutions for properties on Columbia Avenue, Beach Avenue, Congress Street, First Avenue, Decatur Street
• Applications for French doors, roofing, heat pumps, windows, fences, and HVAC at various addresses
• New business: demolition at 717 Franklin Street and 266 Grant Street
• New house proposal at 266 Grant Street
• Discussion topics include parking beneath buildings and conceptual approvals

The Historic Preservation Commission approved a draft historic district map including the promenade and beach to the high-water mark, and issued favorable advisory reports for the AME Church steeple project (conditional on revisions) and demolition of a non-contributing house at 717 Franklin Street. The commission also granted final approvals for several property alterations, tabled a new house design at 266 Grant Street, and discussed limiting new business to 9 p.m.

• Approved draft historic district map including promenade and beach to mean high water mark (7-0)
• Issued favorable advisory report for AME Church steeple, stairs, and ADA ramp, conditional on revisions (7-0)
• Issued favorable advisory report for demolition of non-contributing house at 717 Franklin Street (6-0)
• Granted final approval for Carlin addition at 1102 Lafayette Street (7-0)
• Granted final approval for Peterson roof, siding, rear addition at 244 Windsor Avenue (7-0)
• Granted final approval for Hoff rear addition at 817 Corgie Street, subject to construction plans (7-0)
• Approved partial demolition at 266 Grant Street (7-0)
• Tabled conceptual approval for new house at 266 Grant Street with waiver of 45-day review (7-0)

Boards & Commissions

The Cape May Shade Tree Commission is meeting to review minutes, correspondence, and finances, and to decide on tree removal permits and trimming requests. The agenda includes several approved and denied tree removal permits, as well as requests for trimming and discussions on the Shade Tree Ordinance.

• Approved tree removal permits at 413 Clay St, 1131 Indiana Ave, 1102 Lafayette St (Holly, 2 Crepe Myrtle, Gray Poplar), 1203 New York Ave, 1210 New York Ave, 1126 Washington St, 274 Windsor Ave
• Denied tree removal permits at 1517 Beach Ave, 920 Columbia Ave, 1351 Delaware Ave, 509 Franklin St, 1052 Idaho Ave, 1102 Lafayette St (Silver Maple), 507 Madison Ave, 914 Wenonah Ave
• Approved trimming at 623-625 Columbia Ave, 1315 Idaho Ave, 1127 Indiana Ave, 1024 Maryland Ave, 1330 Ohio Ave, 1013 Stockton Ave, 800 Washington St
• Denied removal at 1330 Ohio Ave
• Bills: Shade Tree Federation $480, Menear's $1,540 and $1,640

The Shade Tree Commission approved the removal of a pine tree at 1517 Beach Avenue with a $75 fee and a stipulation for replacement trees. A request to remove a red cedar tree at 1005 Maryland Avenue was deferred for further review. Commissioners also discussed updates to the shade tree ordinance, including permit fees and dispute resolution, with further discussion planned for the next meeting.

• Approved removal of pine tree at 1517 Beach Avenue with $75 fee and replacement trees (motion by Jay, seconded by Robert)
• Deferred decision on removal of red cedar tree at 1005 Maryland Avenue until next meeting
• Approved $75 application fee and $75 permit fee per tree for shade tree ordinance (motion by Jim, seconded by Bob)

City Council Meetings

The Cape May City Council is holding a special meeting on November 14, 2023, at 3:30 PM. The agenda includes a resolution to hold a closed session to discuss the city manager position, followed by a public comment period and possible adjournment. No other substantive items are listed.

• Resolution 307-11-2023 authorizing a closed session under N.J.S.A. 10:4-12 to discuss the city manager position
• Public comment period limited to 5 minutes per speaker
• Meeting held in-person at City Hall Auditorium, 643 Washington Street, Cape May, NJ

Boards & Commissions

The Cape May Planning Board will hold a public meeting to review a proposed zoning code amendment (Ordinance 492-2023) for consistency with the Master Plan. The board will also consider a minor subdivision application for 555 Elmira Street and approve minutes from the previous meeting.

• Master Plan Consistency Review of Ordinance 492-2023 (zoning code amendment on bulk setbacks to public property and non-conforming structures)
• Minor subdivision application by 555 Elmira LLC for 555 Elmira Street, Block 1061, Lot 16
• Approval of minutes from October 10, 2023 meeting
• Discussion of payment of bills

Boards & Commissions

The Cape May Zoning Board of Adjustment is meeting to consider four resolutions, including one for a closed session on pending litigation, and to hear two variance applications. One application, for 918 Columbia Avenue, will be adjourned to December 28, 2023. The board will also discuss and possibly act on other matters.

• Resolution 11-09-2023:1 for 1326 New York Avenue (Block 1147, Lots 20 & 21)
• Resolution 11-09-2023:2 for 1102 Lafayette Street (Block 1113, Lot 1)
• Resolution 11-09-2023:3 for 3 & 5 Pharo Lane (Block 1061, Lots 101.06 & 101.07)
• Resolution 11-09-2023:4 for closed session on pending litigation
• Variance application for 29 Harbor Cove (Block 1172, Lot 3.14) open to public

The board approved variances for Anthony and Eileen Matarazzo at 29 Harbor Cove to legalize a modified patio area around an existing pool, including lot coverage of 49% and side yard setbacks of five feet each. The vote was 6-0 after an initial motion was withdrawn and revised. Three other resolutions were adopted unanimously for properties on New York Avenue, Lafayette Street, and Pharo Lane.

• Approved variances for 29 Harbor Cove pool patio (6-0)
• Adopted Resolution 11-09-2023:1 for 1326 New York Avenue (5-0)
• Adopted Resolution 11-09-2023:2 for 1102 Lafayette Street (5-0)
• Adopted Resolution 11-09-2023:3 for 3 & 5 Pharo Lane (5-0)
• Adopted Resolution 11-09-2023:4 for closed session on pending litigation (6-0)
• Approved payment of bills (6-0)
• Adopted October 26, 2023 meeting minutes (5-0)

City Advisory Committees

The Bike and Pedestrian Advisory Committee (BAPAC) is meeting to discuss updates on grant status, bike infrastructure plans for Beach Ave, crosswalk and curb cut improvements at Madison/Michigan/Columbia, and safety improvements at several intersections. The police report is deferred as the chief is out of town. The agenda is largely a status update with no major decisions listed.

• Update on grant status by Paul Dietrich
• Beach Ave bike infrastructure plan
• Crosswalk and curb cut at Madison/Michigan/Columbia
• SRTS Madison/Lafayette crossing (green boxes for bikes)
• Bank/Decatur/Lafayette and Perry/Lafayette (Colliers) improvements

City Council Meetings

The Cape May City Council is holding a special meeting with a public portion and a resolution to enter a closed session to discuss the city manager position. The meeting is in-person and live-streamed, with public comments limited to five minutes.

• Resolution 285-11-2023 to hold a closed session on the city manager position
• Public comments limited to 5 minutes per speaker
• Meeting held in-person at City Hall Auditorium, 643 Washington Street

The special meeting consisted solely of a closed session to discuss the city manager position under the New Jersey Open Public Meetings Act. No votes or decisions were made during the closed session, and the public portion had no comments. The meeting adjourned without any substantive action.

• Approved closed session resolution for city manager position (5-0)
• No official action taken in closed session
• Meeting adjourned without substantive decisions

City Council Meetings

The Cape May City Council is holding a work session to introduce an ordinance amending the police department code for compliance with the New Jersey Police Licensure Act, and to hold a public hearing and consider adoption of an ordinance amending beach tag regulations. The consent agenda includes numerous resolutions on contracts, bids, and grants, including beach tag fees for 2024 and a closed session ratification.

• Ordinance 532-2023: Amends police department code for NJ Police Licensure Act compliance
• Ordinance 522-2023: Amends Chapter 158 on beach tags (public hearing)
• Resolution 303-11-2023: Authorizes beach tag fees for 2024 season
• Resolution 289-11-2023: Rejects all bids for Kiwanis Community Park Restrooms
• Resolution 290-11-2023: Advertises bids for Promenade Restrooms project

The council approved beach tag fees for the 2024 season, amending the ordinance to extend the presale period annually through April 30. It also introduced an ordinance to align the police department with the New Jersey Police Licensure Act and adopted a consent agenda including multiple resolutions for contracts, grants, and property sales. A resolution authorizing the sale of surplus city property was amended to remove church pews from the auction.

• Approved beach tag fees for 2024 season with amendment extending presale to April 30 annually (5-0)
• Introduced ordinance amending police department code for NJ Police Licensure Act compliance (5-0)
• Adopted consent agenda including 15 resolutions (5-0)
• Amended resolution 291-11-2023 to remove church pews from surplus property auction (5-0)
• Tabled resolution 27-10-2023 for Broadway Pavilion lease until November 21, 2023 (5-0)
• Approved resolution authorizing East Lynne Theatre Company to name theater at Allen A.M.E. Church (4-0-1 abstention)
• Approved professional services agreement with Blauer Associates for FY 2024 NJDCA Public Facilities Grant (4-0-1 abstention)
• Adopted State Model Citizen Participation Plan and related Small Cities Program resolutions (4-0-1 abstention each)

City Council Meetings

The Cape May City Council is holding a town hall meeting to receive updates from city officials and department heads. Presentations will cover the NJ Register Ready Nixle program, fire department updates, flood insurance promotion, and the Franklin Street School Library project. The mayor will also provide updates on near-term and long-term projects, followed by a public question and answer session.

• Flood insurance promotion update by City Engineer Paul Dietrich
• Franklin Street School Library project update by architect Michael Calafati
• Near-term projects: AME Church Bell Tower, Kiwanis Park, Harborview Park, street program (Beach Avenue, Lafayette Street, Washington Street), EV charging stations, public restroom expansion
• Long-term projects: Desalination Plant, Seawall Project, Lafayette Street Park
• Public comments limited to 5 minutes; written and phone comments no longer accepted

The meeting was a town hall with no formal votes or decisions. Presentations were given by the Police Chief, Fire Chief, City Engineer, and Architect on various city projects. The public portion included comments on the seawall, beach replenishment, promenade arches, and other local concerns.

City Council Meetings

The Cape May City Council is holding a special meeting on November 2, 2023, at 3:00 PM. The agenda includes a resolution to hold a closed session to discuss the city manager position. Public comment is allowed, but the meeting is otherwise procedural.

• Resolution 284-11-2023 to hold a closed session regarding the city manager position
• Public comment period limited to 5 minutes per speaker
• Meeting held in-person at City Hall auditorium, 643 Washington Street, and streamed live on YouTube

The council held a special meeting and immediately entered closed session to discuss the city manager position under the New Jersey Open Public Meetings Act. The closed session lasted about an hour and adjourned with no official action taken. The meeting then adjourned.

• Approved resolution 284-11-2023 to enter closed session for city manager discussion (5-0)
• Closed session held from 3:03 PM to 4:05 PM, no action taken
• Meeting adjourned at 4:05 PM

Boards & Commissions

The Cape May Zoning Board of Adjustment will hold a regular meeting on October 26, 2023, at 6:00 PM in City Hall Auditorium. The board will consider three resolutions and three applications for properties on Kearney, Pittsburgh, Beach, New York, Lafayette, and Pharo Lane. The meeting also includes approval of minutes, public comment, and payment of bills.

• Resolution 10-26-2023:1 for Maryanne McLaughlin and Scott Muraika at 1009 Kearney Avenue, Block 1097, Lots 8 & 9
• Resolution 10-26-2023:2 for Edward and Linda Farrington at 1012 Pittsburgh Avenue, Block 1156, Lot 13.01
• Resolution 10-26-2023:3 for 1005 Beach Avenue LLC at 1005 Beach Avenue, Block 1095, Lot 15
• Application by Rauna Fuller and Bernadette McGlade for 1326 New York Avenue, Block 1147, Lots 20 & 21
• Application by Musketeer Land Developers LLC for 3 & 5 Pharo Lane, Block 1061, Lots 101.06 & 101.07

The Cape May Zoning Board of Adjustment approved three variance applications for property owners at 1326 New York Avenue, 1102 Lafayette Street, and 3 & 5 Pharo Lane, and adopted three resolutions for properties at 1009 Kearney Avenue, 1012 Pittsburgh Avenue, and 1005 Beach Avenue. All decisions were made with recorded votes and conditions as outlined in the minutes.

• Approved variances for lot size and setbacks at 1326 New York Avenue (7-0)
• Approved building setback variance at 1102 Lafayette Street (6-0)
• Approved variances for rear yard setback, lot coverage, and floor area ratio at 3 & 5 Pharo Lane (7-0)
• Adopted Resolution 10-26-2023:1 for 1009 Kearney Avenue (4-0)
• Adopted Resolution 10-26-2023:2 for 1012 Pittsburgh Avenue (2-1)
• Adopted Resolution 10-26-2023:3 for 1005 Beach Avenue (4-0)
• Approved payment of bills (7-0)

Boards & Commissions

The Cape May City Environmental Commission is meeting to discuss updates on the Delaware Avenue project and dune plantings, along with other environmental topics. The agenda includes reports, a dark skies brochure, and a Monarch Fest overview, followed by a public comment period.

• Delaware Avenue project update and dune plantings list by Lomax
• Dark skies brochure by Kim Gronendahl
• Monarch Fest overview by Gretchen Whitman
• Autumn green living tips by Charlotte Todd

Boards & Commissions

The City of Cape May Planning Board work session scheduled for Tuesday, October 24, 2023, has been cancelled. All documents, applications, actions, and decisions of the Board remain on file and available for review at City Hall, 643 Washington Street. This notice is provided in compliance with the Open Public Meetings Act.

• Planning Board work session cancelled for October 24, 2023
• Documents available at City Hall Board Office, 643 Washington Street

City Council Meetings

The Cape May City Council is holding a regular meeting with public hearings on several ordinances, including a $2 million bond for water-sewer utility improvements, a ban on light trespass in residential zones, a one-way lane on Rosemans Lane, a new Chapter 258, and invasive species regulation. The council will also discuss beach tag fees, music on the Washington Street Mall, and vote on a consent agenda with resolutions on grants, contracts, and property leases.

• Bond ordinance 521-2023: $2,000,000 for water-sewer utility improvements
• Ordinance 522-2023: amending beach tag fees (introduction)
• Ordinance 517-2023: prohibiting light trespass in residential zones (public hearing)
• Ordinance 518-2023: establishing one-way lane on Rosemans Lane (public hearing)
• Resolution 279-10-2023: authorizing bid for lease of Broadway Pavilion, 100 Beach Avenue

Boards & Commissions

The Cape May Historic Preservation Commission is meeting to review and decide on numerous applications for changes to properties in the historic district, including roofs, windows, HVAC units, and other alterations. The agenda includes a list of applications for approval or denial, as well as new business items such as a new porch and dormer at 1005 Beach Avenue and a new home at 16 Reading Avenue. The meeting also includes old business items and a public comment period.

• 1005 Beach Avenue LLC: new porch, dormer, windows, roof, siding, doors, HVAC, fence, railings, decking, driveway (Key Contributing)
• Cohen: new home at 16 Reading Avenue (Non-contributing lot)
• Cela Tega: demolish garage at 1521 Beach Avenue (Contributing)
• Reich: addition, roof deck, porch, screened porch, siding, windows, roofs, railings, driveway at 1249 Washington Street (Contributing)
• 35 applications listed for approval/denial, including various roof, window, HVAC, and siding changes

The Historic Preservation Commission approved 33 applications in review for work on contributing and non-contributing properties, all by a 7-0 vote. Final approval was granted for a rear addition at 710 Columbia Avenue and a new porch and dormer at 1005 Beach Avenue. A new home proposal at 16 Reading Avenue was tabled after concerns about height and scale.

• Approved 33 applications in review for various property improvements (7-0)
• Granted final approval for rear addition at 710 Columbia Avenue (7-0)
• Granted final approval for new porch and dormer at 1005 Beach Avenue (7-0)
• Granted conceptual approval for addition at 1249 Washington Street with conditions (7-0)
• Tabled new home application at 16 Reading Avenue subject to waiver of 45-day review period (7-0)
• Granted final approval for rear addition and porch at 122 Decatur Street with conditions (6-1)
• Granted conceptual approval for rear addition at 1011 Washington Street (6-0)
• Approved September 18, 2023 minutes (7-0)

City Advisory Committees

The Municipal Taxation and Revenue Advisory Committee is meeting to discuss and finalize a report on residential rentals, follow up on fee increase recommendations, and review shared service agreements and new revenue sources. The meeting is open to the public and will be live-streamed.

• Final report on residential rentals
• Fee increase recommendation follow-up
• Update on shared service agreements study
• Discussion of new revenue sources

Boards & Commissions

The Cape May Shade Tree Commission is meeting to review and decide on tree removal permits, trimming requests, and maintenance bills. They will also discuss the Shade Tree Ordinance as old business. The agenda includes approvals and denials for specific street addresses.

• Approved tree removal permits: 811 Corgie St, 1145 Maryland Ave, 1321D Virginia Ave, 815 Washington St, 1020 Washington St, 1048 Washington St (two trees)
• Denied tree removal permits: 1360D Illinois Ave, 1005 Maryland Ave, 1210 New York Ave, 403 Pittsburgh Ave
• Approved trimming requests for multiple streets including Illinois, Missouri, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and Washington
• Maintenance bills: Carrot Top sidewalk repair $2,000; Menear's tree maintenance $1,600, $1,335, $733.75
• Planning/zoning approvals for 918 Columbia Ave, 1326 New York Ave, and 3 & 5 Pharo Lane

The Shade Tree Commission approved a homeowner's appeal to remove a half-dead tree at 1210 New York Ave, requiring a $75 payment and planting of five new trees along the back yard fence. The commission also discussed amendments to the Shade Tree Ordinance, including a non-refundable $75 application fee and a $75 per tree fee for approved removals, with the City Solicitor to finalize the ordinance at the next meeting.

• Approved minutes of September 12, 2023 meeting.
• Approved tree removal request at 1210 New York Ave with $75 payment and planting of five new trees.
• Agreed on a non-refundable $75 application fee for tree removal requests.
• Agreed on a $75 per tree fee for approved removals.
• City Solicitor to revise Shade Tree Ordinance and present final version at next meeting.

Boards & Commissions

The Cape May Planning Board is meeting to handle routine business, including approving minutes and discussing the 2022 Zoning Board decisions and the 2023 Hazard Mitigation Plan update. The only application on the agenda, a preliminary and final site plan for Bogle Investment Properties at 502 Washington Street, will be adjourned to the November 28 meeting. The board may also take action on any other matters deemed necessary.

• Bogle Investment Properties, LLC site plan at 502 Washington Street (Block 1050, Lot 9) adjourned to Nov. 28
• Discussion of Zoning Board of Adjustment Annual Decisions 2022
• Discussion of 2023 Hazard Mitigation Plan Update
• Payment of bills

The Cape May Planning Board approved the 2023 Hazard Mitigation Plan Update (7-0) and the payment of bills (7-0). A previously tabled application for 502 Washington Street was adjourned to November 28, 2023. The board also reviewed Zoning Board decisions but found no pattern requiring zoning changes.

• Approved 2023 Hazard Mitigation Plan Update (7-0)
• Approved payment of bills (7-0)
• Adjourned Bogle Investment Properties application at 502 Washington Street to November 28, 2023
• Approved minutes of September 12, 2023 (7-0)

City Council Meetings

The Cape May City Council is holding a work session meeting with a public hearing and vote on an ordinance to make part of Rosemans Lane one-way. The consent agenda includes several resolutions, notably awarding a contract for the 2023 Utility & Road Program reconstruction of Trenton Avenue, and authorizing additional professional services for the Lafayette Street emergency sewer and water main replacement.

• Ordinance 518-2023: Amending city code to establish one-way lane on a portion of Rosemans Lane
• Resolution 269-10-2023: Awarding contract for 2023 Utility & Road Program (FY 2023 NJDOT Municipal Aid Program, reconstruction of Trenton Avenue)
• Resolution 267-10-2023: Authorizing contract for additional professional services to Deblasio & Associates for Lafayette Street emergency sanitary sewer and water main replacement
• Resolution 263-10-2023: Regarding Trick-or-Treat Night in Cape May
• Resolution 272-10-2023: Authorizing participation in ACESplus program for renewable energy consulting services

The City Council voted unanimously to table an ordinance that would establish a one-way lane on a portion of Rosemans Lane until the October 17 meeting. The consent agenda, including resolutions for the 2022 audit, a road construction contract for Trenton Avenue, and a cooperative energy agreement with ACES, was approved unanimously. No other substantive decisions were made; the meeting was largely procedural with updates on parks, road projects, and the beach fill project.

• Tabled Ordinance 518-2023 (Rosemans Lane one-way) until October 17 (5-0)
• Approved consent agenda including 11 resolutions (5-0)
• Certified 2022 City of Cape May Annual Audit via Resolution 264-10-2023
• Awarded contract for 2023 Utility & Road Program (Trenton Avenue reconstruction) via Resolution 269-10-2023
• Authorized participation in ACES cooperative pricing agreement for energy services via Resolution 272-10-2023

Boards & Commissions

The Cape May Zoning Board of Adjustment approved three applications: a new single-family home at 1009 Kearney Avenue, a screened porch and generator at 1012 Pittsburgh Avenue, and a triplex-to-single-family conversion at 1005 Beach Avenue. All votes were recorded with specific tallies. The board also adopted resolutions for prior applications and approved payment of bills.

• Approved variances for new home at 1009 Kearney Avenue (6-0)
• Approved variances for porch and generator at 1012 Pittsburgh Avenue (4-2)
• Approved variances for triplex conversion at 1005 Beach Avenue (6-0)
• Adopted Resolution 09-28-2023:1 for 710 Columbia Avenue (5-0)
• Adopted Resolution 09-28-2023:2 for 1218 New York Avenue (5-0)
• Adopted Resolution 09-28-2023:3 for 2022 Annual Decisions (5-0)
• Approved payment of bills (6-0)
• Adjourned meeting at 9:00 PM

City Advisory Committees

The Cape May Beach Safety Committee is meeting to discuss beach safety matters, including the review of three RFQs for a project and water quality testing procedures. The agenda includes updates on these items and community input.

• Review of 3 RFQs received for a project by Paul Dietrich and Marc DeBlasio
• Discussion on water quality sampling timing and conditions after storms

Boards & Commissions

The City of Cape May Planning Board work session scheduled for Tuesday, September 26, 2023, has been cancelled. This is a procedural notice only; no items will be discussed or decided at this meeting. Documents and meeting records remain available for public review at City Hall and on the city's website.

• Planning Board work session cancelled for September 26, 2023

City Council Meetings

The Cape May City Council is holding a regular meeting with several ordinances for introduction and adoption, including a $2 million bond ordinance for water-sewer utility improvements and zoning code changes. The council will also discuss the Hazard Mitigation Plan and receive reports from city officials. Public comments are limited to five minutes per person.

• Bond ordinance appropriating $2,000,000 for water-sewer utility improvements
• Ordinance to repeal and adopt new Chapter 258 of City Code
• Ordinance to regulate invasive species in property maintenance
• Ordinance to prohibit light pollution in residential zones (public hearing)
• Resolution authorizing memorial bench replacement program

Council approved two collective bargaining agreements: one with the Government Workers Union (Upper Management Unit) covering 2021-2024, and one with UAW Local 2327 for Cape May lifeguards covering 2023-2026. Both were added to the agenda and passed unanimously (4-0, with one absent). Council also adopted a bond ordinance appropriating $2,000,000 for water-sewer utility improvements.

• Approved collective bargaining agreement with Government Workers Union, Upper Management Unit (2021-2024) (4-0)
• Approved collective bargaining agreement with UAW Local 2327 Cape May Lifeguards (2023-2026) (4-0)
• Adopted bond ordinance appropriating $2,000,000 for water-sewer utility improvements (4-0)
• Adopted ordinance amending zoning code per 2019 Master Plan Reexamination (4-0)
• Introduced ordinance to repeal and replace Chapter 258 of City Code (4-0)
• Introduced ordinance regulating invasive species in property maintenance (4-0)
• Introduced amended ordinance prohibiting light trespass in residential zones (4-0)
• Tabled Resolution 248-09-2023 indefinitely (4-0)

City Council Meetings

The Cape May City Council is holding a special meeting on September 19, 2023, at 4:00 PM. The main item is a resolution to enter a closed session to discuss collective bargaining negotiations, a personnel matter, and litigation. The public can comment in person, with a 5-minute limit.

• Resolution 246-09-2023 authorizing closed session for collective bargaining (Upper Management, Lifeguard UAW Local 2327), Deputy City Clerk position, and Lokal Stockton litigation update
• Public comment period with 5-minute limit per speaker
• Meeting held in-person at City Hall auditorium, 643 Washington Street, and live-streamed on YouTube

The City Council held a special meeting on September 19, 2023, and voted unanimously to enter closed session to discuss upper management and lifeguard union collective bargaining negotiations, the Deputy City Clerk position, and a litigation update. No public comment was heard. Council returned to open session at 5:05 PM and adjourned at 5:06 PM, with formal action on the labor agreements expected at a future regular meeting.

• Approved closed session resolution 246-09-2023 for labor negotiations and litigation (3-0, two absent)
• No public comment was received
• Adjourned special meeting at 5:06 PM

Boards & Commissions

The Cape May Historic Preservation Commission is meeting to review and vote on numerous applications for changes to historic properties, including HVAC installations, roof repairs, and a solar panel installation. One application, for a lift and ramp at Macedonia Baptist Church, was denied. The commission will also consider a resolution to apply for national recognition of African American contributions to the city's landmark status.

• Resolution 2023-36: HPC approval of application to National Trust for recognition of African American contribution to NHL status
• Denied: Macedonia Baptist Church, 630 Lafayette Street - lift, stairs, landing, ramp, railings
• 19 Jackson Street Inc., 19 Jackson Street - solar panels
• 311 Washington Mall Group Inc., 311 Washington Street - siding & trim
• City of Cape May, 611 Lafayette Street - contributing sign

The Cape May Historic Preservation Commission approved Resolutions 2023-33 through 2023-36 and 20 applications for work on historic properties, with one denial. The Commission also issued a positive advisory letter for a new Transportation Center sign design and granted conceptual approval for a porch project at 347 Congress Street, with conditions.

• Approved Resolutions 2023-33 through 2023-36 (6-0)
• Approved 20 applications for work on historic properties (6-0)
• Denied Macedonia Baptist Church application for lift, stairs, landing, ramp, railings at 630 Lafayette Street
• Issued positive advisory letter for Transportation Center sign design #2 (6-0)
• Granted conceptual approval for porch at 347 Congress Street, subject to revised plans (5-1)
• Approved minutes of August 21 and September 1, 2023 (6-0)

Boards & Commissions

The Cape May Shade Tree Commission is meeting to vote on tree removal permits, approve trimming requests, and discuss a potential change to the Shade Tree Ordinance. The agenda also includes updates on the budget and the upcoming NJ Shade Tree Conference.

• Tree removal permits: approved for 1157 Lafayette St, 1112 Maryland Ave (2), 1022 Washington St, 1045 Washington St; denied for 106A Howard St, 411 Jefferson St, 605 Madison Ave, 1112 Maryland Ave (1), 1153 Washington St
• Planning/zoning approval requests: 1009 Kearney Ave and 1012 Pittsburgh Ave approved with conditions
• Street tree trimming approved for 16 properties, including 1101 Cape May Ave, 259 Grant St, and 1236 Lafayette St
• Street tree removal denied for 1117 Ohio Ave, 1130 Pennsylvania Ave, and 1106 West Ave
• Discussion on changing the Shade Tree Ordinance

The Shade Tree Commission approved minutes from August and a tree removal request at 815 Washington Avenue. However, the city manager overturned the commission's prior denials to remove street trees at 1240 Ohio Avenue and 915 Benton Avenue, and the trees were removed. Commissioners also discussed a forthcoming revised shade tree ordinance that would eliminate blanket manager overrides and require an arborist consultation for health disputes.

• Approved minutes of August 8, 2023 meeting (one abstention)
• Approved removal of dead tree at 815 Washington Avenue
• City manager overturned denial of tree removal at 1240 Ohio Avenue; tree removed
• City manager overturned denial of tree removal at 915 Benton Avenue; tree removed
• Homeowner at 915 Benton Avenue no longer qualifies for 50/50 sidewalk program after tree removal

Boards & Commissions

The Cape May Planning Board is meeting to discuss a Master Plan Consistency Review of Ordinance 492-2023, which amends the zoning code to clarify provisions about bulk setbacks to public property and non-conforming structures. The board will also consider an application from Bogle Investment Properties, LLC for a property at 502 Washington Street, and may take action on other matters as deemed necessary.

• Application by Bogle Investment Properties, LLC for 502 Washington Street (Block 1050, Lot 9)
• Discussion of Ordinance 492-2023 amending zoning code on bulk setbacks to public property and non-conforming structures
• Approval of minutes from August 8, 2023 meeting

The Planning Board voted 9-0 to table the application by Bogle Investment Properties for 502 Washington Street, pending submission of an amended application and business plan to determine if the intended use is permitted in the C-1 zone. The board also found Ordinance 492-2023, amending zoning code on bulk setbacks and non-conforming structures, consistent with the master plan (9-0).

• Tabled Bogle Investment Properties application for 502 Washington Street (9-0)
• Found Ordinance 492-2023 consistent with master plan (9-0)
• Approved August 8, 2023 meeting minutes (6-0)

City Council Meetings

The Cape May City Council is holding a special meeting on September 5, 2023, at 4:00 PM in the City Hall auditorium. The main item is a resolution to enter a closed session to discuss City Council and Faulkner Act procedures and the State Health Benefits Program, with no official action anticipated. The meeting will also include a public comment period, limited to five minutes per speaker.

• Resolution 224-09-2023 to hold a closed session under N.J.S.A. 10:4-12
• Discussion of City Council and Faulkner Act procedures
• Discussion of State Health Benefits Program
• Public comment period (5-minute limit per speaker)

The City Council held a special meeting on September 5, 2023, and voted unanimously (4-0, with one absent) to enter a closed session to discuss City Council and Faulkner Act procedures, as well as the State Health Benefits Program, under the attorney-client privilege exception to the Open Public Meetings Act. Deputy Mayor Baldwin questioned whether the Faulkner Act discussion should be held in public, but the City Solicitor noted it was Council's choice. The closed session lasted from 4:03 PM to 5:02 PM, and no official action was taken. The meeting adjourned at 5:06 PM.

• Approved closed session resolution 224-09-2023 (4-0, Meier absent)
• No official action taken during closed session
• Adjourned special meeting at 5:06 PM

City Council Meetings

The Cape May City Council is holding a work session to introduce an ordinance making part of Rosemans Lane one-way and to hold a public hearing on adopting zoning code changes from the 2019 Master Plan reexamination. The consent agenda includes numerous routine resolutions on appointments, contracts, and cooperative purchasing agreements.

• Ordinance 518-2023: one-way lane on portion of Rosemans Lane
• Ordinance 506-2023: zoning code amendments from 2019 Master Plan reexamination (public hearing)
• Resolution 229-09-2023: Change Order No. 2 for Pennsylvania Avenue Phase 7 reconstruction
• Resolution 230-09-2023: additional professional services for Franklin Street School and Library renovation
• Resolution 231-09-2023: site investigation services for Green Acres diversion for Police Station project

The council voted to table Ordinance 518-2023, which would amend zoning code based on the 2019 Master Plan Reexamination, until the September 19 meeting pending Planning Board recommendations. The council also introduced an ordinance to establish a one-way lane on Rosemans Lane, amended to remove Columbia Avenue. A resolution was approved to apply for National Park Service recognition of African American contributions to Cape May as a National Historic Landmark.

• Tabled Ordinance 518-2023 (zoning amendment) until September 19 pending Planning Board recommendations (4-0)
• Introduced Ordinance 506-2023 establishing one-way lane on Rosemans Lane, amended to remove Columbia Avenue (4-0)
• Approved Resolution 245-09-2023 authorizing application for African American National Historic Landmark status (4-0)
• Approved consent agenda including 20 resolutions on appointments, contracts, grants, and cooperative agreements (4-0)

Boards & Commissions

The Historic Preservation Commission voted 7-0 to approve Resolution 2023-36, an application to the National Park Service for African American Contribution to the National Landmark Status. The commission also approved the contents of the National Register application document, the final product of CLG grant HE21-006. Consultant Nancy Zerbe will present the application to the Historic Sites Council after final reviews by city council and the State Historic Preservation Office.

• Approved Resolution 2023-36: Application to National Park Service for African American Contribution to National Landmark Status (7-0)
• Approved contents of National Register application document, final product of CLG grant HE21-006

Boards & Commissions

The Cape May Zoning Board of Adjustment approved two variance applications: one for converting a six-unit property at 710 Columbia Avenue to a single-family home, and another for a rear deck at 1218 New York Avenue. Both were approved unanimously (7-0) with conditions. The board also adopted prior meeting minutes and two resolutions, and received a presentation on new historic design standards.

• Approved variances for conversion of 710 Columbia Avenue from six-unit to single-family home (7-0)
• Approved variances for rear deck at 1218 New York Avenue (7-0)
• Adopted meeting minutes of July 27, 2023 (6-0, one abstention)
• Adopted Resolution 08-24-2023:1 for Joseph Bogle, 102 First Avenue (6-0, one abstention)
• Adopted Resolution 08-24-2023:2 for Samuel and Lisa Stroud, 227 Grant Street (6-0, one abstention)
• Accepted 2022 Zoning Board of Adjustment Decisions report (7-0)

Boards & Commissions

The Cape May City Environmental Commission is meeting to discuss several environmental topics, including plans for solar grants at the public works facility and desal plant, an update on an invasive species brochure, and a dark skies report. The agenda also includes routine items like approving minutes and hearing reports from members and other commissions.

• Discussion of Council plans for solar grants at public works facility and desal plant
• Update on invasive species brochure
• Dark skies report discussion
• Visit from Shade Tree Commission Chair Jay Schatz
• Planning Board report by Mike Jones

The Cape May Environmental Commission met on August 22, 2023, and discussed several ongoing issues. They reviewed a proposed 'Dark Skies' ordinance that had already received a first reading by City Council, with a second reading scheduled for September 19, 2023. The commission also heard an update on a $600,000 grant for the desalination plant design, which has been promised but not yet received. No formal votes or decisions were taken at this meeting.

• Approved minutes from July 25, 2023
• Discussed proposed Dark Skies ordinance (first reading already done by Council; second reading set for Sept 19)
• Noted $600,000 grant for desal plant design promised but not yet received
• Agreed to read Lomax dune survey report and make recommendations to Council
• Commission to provide comments on Dark Skies ordinance to Kim for collation
• Justine to get cost estimate for invasive species brochure before seeking approval from City Manager/Clerk

Boards & Commissions

The City of Cape May Planning Board work session scheduled for August 22, 2023 has been cancelled. The agenda contains only this cancellation notice and no items for discussion or decision.

• Planning Board work session of August 22, 2023 cancelled

Boards & Commissions

The Historic Preservation Commission approved 34 property applications in a single block vote, covering work like condensers, fences, roofs, and signs. It tabled a porch reconstruction at 347 Congress Street after the original porch collapsed, requesting detailed plans. A new home proposal at 359 Congress Street was also tabled for incomplete materials. The commission granted conditional approval for a fence at 1515 Beach Avenue and a landscape plan at 1045 Washington Street, while tabling the lighting portion pending a new ordinance.

• Approved Resolutions 2023-29 through 2023-32 for properties at 1006 Washington Street, 660 Hughes Street, 1519 Beach Avenue, and 906 Page Street (5-0).
• Approved 34 applications for work such as condensers, fences, roofs, and signs in a single motion (7-0).
• Tabled the porch reconstruction at 347 Congress Street with a waiver of the 45-day time constraint (7-0).
• Tabled the new home application at 359 Congress Street with a waiver of the 45-day time constraint (7-0).
• Approved the fence at 1515 Beach Avenue conditional on replacing posts, painting white, and submitting an amended plan (7-0).
• Tabled the application at 29 Ocean Street for roof, siding, and HVAC lines until the owner can appear (7-0).
• Granted final approval of the landscape plan at 1045 Washington Street conditional on compliance with a forthcoming city ordinance (7-0).
• Tabled the lighting plan at 1045 Washington Street until adoption of lighting ordinance 519-2023 (7-0).

City Council Meetings

The City Council held a special meeting that consisted entirely of a closed session to discuss middle and upper management collective bargaining agreements, a COAH matter, intergovernmental transfer issues, and an affordable housing deed restriction for 1134 Lafayette. No official action was taken during the closed session, and the meeting adjourned immediately after it ended.

• Approved resolution to enter closed session for union contracts and housing matters (5-0)
• No official action taken in closed session

City Council Meetings

The council voted unanimously to add and then adopt a resolution approving a new collective bargaining agreement with the Government Workers Union, Middle Management Unit, covering 2022-2024. They also unanimously introduced an ordinance to amend the city code to prohibit light pollution in residential zones, requiring spotlights to be shielded and kept within property lines. Several other ordinances and resolutions were adopted, including zoning changes for swimming pool buffers, accessory building heights, and parking restrictions on Elmira Street.

• Added and adopted resolution approving collective bargaining agreement with Government Workers Union (5-0)
• Introduced ordinance prohibiting light pollution in residential zones (5-0)
• Adopted ordinance requiring landscape buffers around private and semiprivate swimming pools (5-0)
• Adopted ordinance amending maximum height of accessory uses and including pitched roofs (5-0)
• Adopted ordinance prohibiting parking on a portion of Elmira Street (5-0)
• Adopted consent agenda including multiple resolutions and minutes (5-0)
• Adopted amended resolution for technology management services contract with Barber Consulting, not to exceed $19,860 (5-0)
• Adopted resolution for payment of bills (5-0)

Boards & Commissions

The Cape May Shade Tree Commission is meeting to handle routine business, including approving minutes, reviewing correspondence, and discussing the 2023 budget. The commission will vote on tree maintenance bills, tree removal permits, planning/zoning approval requests, and street tree removal/trimming requests, with several permits and requests being denied or approved.

• Tree maintenance bills from Menears totaling $3,173.75
• Tree removal permits: denied for 1161 Lafayette St and 1112 Maryland Ave; approved for 20 Patterson Ave and 944B Sewell Ave
• Planning/zoning approval requests: approved with conditions for 1005 Beach Ave; approved for 710 Columbia Ave and 1218 New York Ave
• Street tree trimming approved for 1026 Maryland Ave, 1200 Pennsylvania/Reading Ave, and 1207 Washington St; denied for 915 Benton Ave, 737 Washington St, and 1230 Wisconsin Ave

The Cape May Shade Tree Commission approved removal of two evergreen trees at 915 Maryland Avenue, with a condition to replant deciduous trees. The commission also discussed tree removal at 1240 Ohio Avenue, trimming at 1036 Idaho Avenue, and removal of invasive 'Trees of Heaven' on Lafayette Street. No votes were recorded for these items.

• Approved amended minutes of June 13, 2023 meeting (all in favor)
• Approved minutes of July 11, 2023 meeting (all in favor)
• Approved removal of two evergreen trees at 1112 Maryland Avenue, with stipulation to plant deciduous replacements (no vote tally recorded)
• Discussed tree removal at 1240 Ohio Avenue; deferred to next meeting
• Discussed tree trimming at 1036 Idaho Avenue; work order to be requested
• Noted removal of invasive 'Trees of Heaven' on Lafayette Street by city engineer

Boards & Commissions

The Cape May Planning Board is meeting to review Ordinance 514-2023, which would amend the zoning code regarding the maximum height of accessory uses and include pitched roofs. The board will discuss the ordinance's consistency with the Master Plan and may take action on it. The agenda also includes approval of the July 11, 2023 minutes and other matters the board deems necessary.

• Master Plan Consistency Review of Ordinance 514-2023 (zoning code amendment on accessory use heights and pitched roofs)
• Approval of minutes from July 11, 2023 meeting
• Discussion of any other matters with possible action

The Planning Board voted 6-0 to adopt Resolution 08-08-2023, finding that Ordinance 514-2023 (amending zoning code on maximum heights of accessory uses and pitched roofs) is consistent with the master plan. The board also approved the July 11, 2023 meeting minutes 5-0 with one abstention. No public comment was received.

• Adopted Resolution 08-08-2023: Master Plan Consistency Review of Ordinance 514-2023 (6-0)
• Approved meeting minutes of July 11, 2023 (5-0, Jones abstained)

City Advisory Committees

The Cape May Beach Safety Committee is meeting to discuss beach replenishment, public safety education, and marketing efforts. Updates will be provided on the beach replenishment project, lifeguard-led safety education, and a PA system subcommittee.

• Beach replenishment update with projected completion in 2024
• Beach and surf zone safety education planning
• Marketing video update
• PA system subcommittee update

City Council Meetings

The Cape May City Council work session includes public hearings on two ordinances: adopting surveys of historic sites and establishing annual renewal of reserved on-street handicapped parking. The consent agenda covers contracts, grants, and a $12.49 million general obligation bond issuance, among other items.

• Ordinance 512-2023 adopting surveys of historic sites
• Ordinance 513-2023 establishing annual renewal of reserved on-street handicapped parking
• Resolution for $12,490,000 General Obligation Bonds, Series 2023
• Contract to Horton Emergency Vehicles for a Ford F-550 ambulance, not to exceed $377,281.00
• Resolution authorizing USDA grant application for sanitary sewer system study

Council voted unanimously to amend Ordinance 506-2023, changing the minimum lot size in the R-5 district from 1,500 to 2,500 square feet, and reintroduced it as amended. Two other ordinances were adopted: one adopting historic site surveys (with 817 St. John removed) and one establishing annual renewal of reserved on-street handicapped parking. A resolution to execute a deed restriction for affordable housing at 1134 Lafayette Street was tabled indefinitely pending additional information.

• Amended Ordinance 506-2023 to change R-5 lot size from 1,500 to 2,500 sq ft and reintroduced (5-0)
• Adopted Ordinance 512-2023 adopting historic site surveys (5-0)
• Adopted Ordinance 513-2023 establishing annual renewal of reserved on-street handicapped parking (5-0)
• Tabled Resolution 202-08-2023 for deed restriction at 1134 Lafayette Street indefinitely (5-0)
• Adopted consent agenda including 14 resolutions (5-0)

Boards & Commissions

The Cape May Zoning Board of Adjustment is meeting to consider two resolutions and three applications, one of which has been withdrawn. The board will also review minutes from its June 22 meeting and hold a public comment period.

• Resolution 07-27-2023:1 for Michael Wood at 413 Broadway, Block 1032, Lot 1
• Resolution 07-27-2023:2 for Cela Tega LLC at 1521 Beach Avenue, Block 1174, Lots 15 & 16
• Application by Joseph Bogle at 102 First Avenue, Block 1015, Lot 6
• Application by Samuel and Lisa Stroud at 227 Grant Street, Block 1022, Lots 32 & 33
• Application by Elaine's Property Management LLC at 513 Lafayette Street, Block 1053, Lot 13 — withdrawn

City Council Meetings

The council adopted ordinances updating historic design standards and requiring landscape buffers around swimming pools, and tabled a zoning code amendment to allow residents more time for clarification. A $1M bond ordinance for a new fire truck was approved. The consent agenda, including several resolutions, was adopted unanimously.

• Adopted historic design standards for Historic Preservation Commission (5-0)
• Adopted landscape buffer requirements for private and semiprivate swimming pools (5-0)
• Tabled zoning code amendment from 2019 Master Plan reexamination (5-0)
• Approved $1M bond ordinance for fire truck and apparatus (5-0)
• Adopted stop intersections on Elmira Street and Venice Avenue (4-1)
• Established restricted handicapped parking at 1017 Lafayette Street (5-0)
• Adopted consent agenda including multiple resolutions (5-0)
• Tabled ordinance amending loading zones on Jackson Street (5-0)

Boards & Commissions

The Cape May Shade Tree Commission is meeting to review tree removal and trimming permits, approve a planning/zoning request, and discuss changes to the Shade Tree Ordinance. Most permit requests were approved, but several were denied, including removals on Madison, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Vermont, and Washington streets.

• Approved tree removal permits for 1103 Cake Street, 201 N. Grant Street, 409 Jefferson Street, 1159 Lafayette Street, 1022 Michigan Street, 1272 Missouri Ave, 1207 Reading Ave, 1045 Washington Street, and 1048 Washington Street
• Denied tree removal permits for 1417 Beach Ave and 1011 Washington Street
• Approved planning/zoning request for 227 Grant Street
• Approved street tree trimming for 15 locations, including 725 Columbia Ave and 1009 Maryland Ave
• Denied street tree removals for 405 Madison Ave, 1133 Ohio Ave, 1330 A Pennsylvania Ave, 1229 Vermont Ave, and 1048 Washington Street

Boards & Commissions

The Cape May Planning Board is meeting to review two proposed ordinances for consistency with the Master Plan: one adding minimum landscape buffer requirements around private and semiprivate swimming pools, and another updating historic design standards for the Historic Preservation Commission. The board will also consider a resolution for Mahalo Cape May, LLC at 1033 Beach Avenue, and may take action on other matters.

• Resolution 07-11-2023-1: Mahalo Cape May, LLC, 1033 Beach Avenue, Block 1101 Lot(s) 1
• Master Plan Consistency Review of Ordinance 507-2023: minimum landscape buffers for private and semiprivate swimming pools
• Master Plan Consistency Review of Ordinance 508-2023: updating historic design standards for Historic Preservation Commission
• Approval of minutes from June 13, 2023 meeting

The board voted 8-0 to find Ordinance 507-2023, which adds minimum landscape buffer requirements for private and semiprivate swimming pools, consistent with the master plan, provided three recommendations are implemented. The recommendations include not limiting plant species to specific commission lists, allowing existing accessory structures to serve as buffers, and making irrigation recommended but not required. The board also voted 8-0 to find Ordinance 508-2023, updating historic design standards for the Historic Preservation Commission, consistent with the master plan. A separate resolution for a Mahalo Cape May LLC project at 1033 Beach Avenue was adopted 5-0.

• Approved Resolution 07-11-2023:1 for Mahalo Cape May, LLC at 1033 Beach Avenue (Block 1101, Lot 1) — carried 5-0.
• Approved Resolution 07-11-2023:2 — Master Plan Consistency Review of Ordinance 507-2023 (pool landscape buffers) — carried 8-0, with three recommendations to City Council.
• Approved Resolution 07-11-2023:3 — Master Plan Consistency Review of Ordinance 508-2023 (historic design standards update) — carried 8-0.
• Approved the June 13, 2023 meeting minutes — carried 5-0.

City Council Meetings

The City Council held a special meeting on July 3, 2023, to enter closed session to discuss Shustack litigation, a COAH matter, and a shared services agreement with West Cape May for a Municipal Court Administrator. The council also approved a resolution authorizing voluntary deductions from employee health insurance waivers and paid time off to resolve 2020 payments related to the Affordable Housing Trust Fund (COAH). No public comments were made.

• Approved closed session resolution (5-0) to discuss Shustack litigation, COAH matter, and shared services agreement with West Cape May
• Approved resolution 189-07-2023 (5-0) authorizing voluntary deduction of employee health insurance waiver payment and paid time off to resolve 2020 COAH payments

City Council Meetings

The Cape May City Council is holding a work session to introduce three ordinances, including one adopting surveys of historic sites and another amending zoning rules for accessory structure heights. The council will also hold public hearings on two ordinances up for adoption, one on breach of peace rules and one on the city engineer's role. A consent agenda includes contracts for engineering, technology, and new public works vehicles, with amounts up to $355,380.

• Ordinance 512-2023: Adopting surveys of historic sites
• Ordinance 513-2023: Annual renewal of reserved on-street handicapped parking
• Ordinance 514-2023: Zoning code amendment on accessory use height and pitched roofs
• Resolution 184-07-2023: Street sweeper purchase, not to exceed $355,380
• Resolution 185-07-2023: Rear-loader and Mack truck purchase, not to exceed $206,961

The City Council voted unanimously to introduce three ordinances: adopting surveys of historic sites (with 817 St. John Street removed), establishing annual renewal of reserved on-street handicapped parking, and amending zoning code on accessory use height and pitched roofs. They also adopted two ordinances on breach of peace and city engineer duties. The council approved a consent agenda including contracts for street sweeper, rear-loader, tractor, and shared court services, and passed resolutions for Oktoberfest open container and technology services.

• Introduced ordinance adopting historic site surveys, amended to remove 817 St. John Street (5-0)
• Introduced ordinance establishing annual renewal of reserved on-street handicapped parking (5-0)
• Introduced ordinance amending zoning code on accessory use height and pitched roofs (5-0)
• Adopted ordinance amending city code on breach of peace (5-0)
• Adopted ordinance updating city engineer appointment, duties, and term (5-0)
• Approved consent agenda including $355,380 street sweeper, $206,961 rear-loader, $194,175 tractor, and shared court services extension (5-0)
• Approved resolution for Oktoberfest temporary open container and fee waiver, amended to 11am-5pm (5-0)
• Approved contract for technology management services to Barber Consulting Services (5-0)

Boards & Commissions

The Environmental Commission discussed several environmental issues but took no final votes or decisions. They reviewed new pool regulations in Ordinance No. 507-2023, formed a subcommittee to research pool ordinances, and discussed drought-tolerant plantings. They also noted the Zoning Board denied a pool at a Village Green location, and discussed an updated invasive species brochure, a 'Dark Skies' initiative, and a letter to police about electric vehicles.

• Approved minutes from May 23, 2022
• Created subcommittee to research pool ordinances in other communities (motion by Justine, seconded by Kim, Chris and Justine to lead)
• Noted Zoning Board denied a proposed in-ground pool at Village Green (pools not permitted there)

Boards & Commissions

The City of Cape May Planning Board work session scheduled for Tuesday, June 27, 2023, has been cancelled. This agenda is only a cancellation notice; no items will be discussed or decided at this meeting. Documents and applications remain available for review at City Hall.

• Planning Board work session cancelled for June 27, 2023
• Documents available at City Hall Board Office, 643 Washington Street

Boards & Commissions

The Cape May Zoning Board of Adjustment approved variances for two properties and adjourned a third application. Michael Wood's application for egress and use variances at 413 Broadway was approved 7-0. Cela Tega LLC's variance for a rear yard setback at 1521 Beach Avenue was approved 5-2. Elaine's Property Management LLC's appeal at 513 Lafayette Street was adjourned to July 27, 2023, to allow for a potential settlement.

• Approved variances 1-5 for Michael Wood at 413 Broadway, including use variance and floor area ratio, with conditions (7-0)
• Approved rear yard setback variance for Cela Tega LLC at 1521 Beach Avenue, with conditions (5-2)
• Adjourned Elaine's Property Management LLC appeal at 513 Lafayette Street to July 27, 2023 (7-0)
• Adopted Resolution 06-22-2023:1 for Scott and Sarah Fisher at 1141 Pennsylvania Avenue (6-0)
• Adopted Resolution 06-22-2023:2 for Nancy Tiburzio at 1260 Cape May Avenue (6-0)
• Approved meeting minutes of May 25, 2023 (6-0)

City Council Meetings

The Cape May City Council will consider introducing several ordinances, including a $1,000,000 bond ordinance to fund a new fire truck, zoning amendments from the 2019 Master Plan reexamination, and updates to historic design standards. The council will also vote on resolutions, including contract renewals, beach designations, and alcohol license renewals. Public comment is limited to five minutes per person.

• Bond ordinance appropriating $1,000,000 for a fire truck, issuing $952,381 in bonds
• Zoning code amendments per 2019 Master Plan reexamination
• Ordinance requiring landscape buffers around private and semiprivate swimming pools
• Ordinance updating historic design standards for the Historic Preservation Commission
• Resolution designating 2023 bathing and surfing beaches

The council introduced a $1 million bond ordinance to acquire a new fire truck and related apparatus, appropriating $1,000,000 and authorizing $952,381 in bonds. It also introduced zoning amendments updating historic design standards, landscape buffer requirements for pools, and additional stop intersections. All votes were unanimous (5-0) except one abstention on a liquor license renewal.

• Introduced $1M bond ordinance for fire truck acquisition (5-0)
• Adopted updated Historic Design Standards (5-0)
• Introduced zoning amendment for 2019 Master Plan recommendations (5-0)
• Introduced minimum landscape buffer requirements for swimming pools (5-0)
• Introduced additional stop intersections on Elmira Street and Venice Avenue (5-0)
• Introduced restricted handicapped parking at 1017 Lafayette Street (5-0)
• Renewed membership in Atlantic County Municipal Joint Insurance Fund (5-0)
• Added $6,599 for Washington Street Mall flower baskets to bill payment resolution (5-0)

City Advisory Committees

The Cape May Bike and Pedestrian Advisory Committee (BAPAC) is meeting to discuss current project updates, grant status, safety enforcement, and maps. They will also review the committee's wish-list action items for 2023-24. The agenda is largely procedural, with no specific decisions or dollar amounts listed.

• Project updates: Kiwanis Park, Pittsburgh Ave, Lafayette Street, Michigan/PA Ave, Beach Ave
• Grant status review
• Safety enforcement discussion
• Committee wish-list action items for 2023-24

The Cape May Bike & Pedestrian Advisory Committee discussed ongoing bike/pedestrian safety initiatives, including a Complete Streets application requiring new resolutions and ordinances. Police reported increased bike and foot patrols, with a summer sergeant overseeing enforcement and logging stops. The committee also recommended a three-way stop at Elmira and Venice, and discussed sidewalk repair responsibilities.

• Complete Streets application requires new resolutions and ordinances before moving forward
• Committee recommended three-way stop at Elmira and Venice (action item for City Manager Mike Voll)
• Electronic sign for free parking and jitney at St. James' open lane on Lafayette (action item for Councilperson Mike Yeager)
• Sidewalk repair responsibilities to be investigated by Jim Moffatt

Boards & Commissions

The Cape May Shade Tree Commission is meeting to review and decide on tree-related permits, maintenance, and planting requests. The agenda includes approvals for tree removal permits at several addresses, one denial, and approvals for trimming requests. The commission will also discuss old and new business, including a tree removal request and street tree discussions.

• Approved tree removal permits at 1040 Idaho Ave, 1401 Idaho Ave, 10 Jackson St, 605 Madison Ave, 1202 Maryland Ave, 219 North St
• Denied tree removal permit at 815 Washington St
• Approved trimming requests at 701 Benton Ave, 615 Lafayette St, 1010 New York Ave, 909 Queen St, 1229 Vermont Ave, 720 Washington St
• Approved planning/zoning requests with conditions at 1033 Beach Ave and 1521 Beach Ave
• Maintenance bills: Menears $610 and $770; sidewalk repair Carrot Top $2,900

The Commission approved removal of two diseased black pines on city property at 224 Windsor Avenue, and approved removal of two trees at 20 Patterson Avenue after the homeowner agreed to plant two replacement trees. A removal request at 1126 Washington Street was approved, while one at 737 Washington Street was denied. The Commission also discussed revising the city's shade tree ordinance.

Boards & Commissions

The Cape May Planning Board is meeting to review a Master Plan consistency review of Historic Preservation Commission property reports tied to a historic district survey grant, and to discuss an application from Mahalo Cape May, LLC for property at 1033 Beach Avenue. The board will also consider any other matters deemed necessary, with possible action.

• Master Plan Consistency Review of Historic Preservation Commission property reports under §525-36(C) of City Code
• Historic district survey grant HE20-003
• Application by Mahalo Cape May, LLC for Block 1101, Lot 1 at 1033 Beach Avenue
• Approval of minutes from May 23, 2023 meeting

The Planning Board voted 7-0 to grant preliminary and final site plan approval to Mahalo Cape May, LLC for a pool deck, sign replacement, and pergola with water feature at 1033 Beach Avenue. The approval includes variances for the pool deck, sign in a sight triangle, and parking (48 spaces where 54 are required), subject to conditions from the Board Engineer, Shade Tree Commission, and Environmental Commission. The Historic Preservation Commission had granted conceptual sign approval. No public comment was received.

• Approved Resolution 06-13-2023:1, Master Plan Consistency Review of HPC property reports (6-0)
• Approved meeting minutes of May 23, 2023 (5-0)
• Granted preliminary and final site plan approval and variances for Mahalo Cape May, LLC at 1033 Beach Avenue (7-0)

Boards & Commissions

The Cape May Historic Preservation Commission is meeting to review and vote on numerous applications for changes to properties in the historic district, including resolutions for specific properties and a list of applications approved or denied in review. The commission will also discuss old and new business items, such as renovations and additions. Public comment is invited.

• Resolutions for properties on Queen, Clay, Jefferson, West Perry, and Lafayette Streets
• Application approved for porch decking at 1221 Lafayette Street
• Application denied for front porch decking at 132 Decatur Street
• New business: rear addition at 710 Columbia Avenue
• New business: elevation and siding at 21 Windsor Avenue

The Historic Preservation Commission approved seven resolutions and 24 applications for work on historic properties, including porch decks, roofs, fences, and windows. A new house at 236 Grant Street was tabled after the commission found the design still too large and high for the streetscape. Conceptual approvals were granted for a roof deck at 102 First Avenue, a hotel sign at 1033 Beach Avenue, and a renovation at 1006 Washington Street, all with conditions.

• Approved Resolutions 2023-20 through 2023-26 (7-0)
• Approved 24 applications for work on historic properties, one denied (Hood, 132 Decatur Street) (7-0)
• Granted conceptual approval for roof deck at 102 First Avenue (7-0)
• Granted conceptual approval for hotel sign at 1033 Beach Avenue, conditional on all-wood construction (7-0)
• Granted conceptual approval for renovation at 1006 Washington Street, conditional on window cut sheets and other details (7-0)
• Tabled new house at 236 Grant Street, applicant waived 45-day review period (7-0)
• Granted conceptual approval for rear addition at 710 Columbia Avenue, conditional on reduced side porch and window list (7-0)
• Granted final approval for renovations at 1145 Washington Street and 21 Windsor Avenue, both conditional (7-0)

City Council Meetings

The Cape May City Council will hold a work session to introduce two ordinances, hold public hearings on several items including two bond ordinances totaling over $7.5 million for water-sewer improvements and capital projects, and consider a consent agenda with routine resolutions. The meeting is in-person and live-streamed, with public comment limited to five minutes.

• Bond ordinance for $2,000,000 in water-sewer utility improvements
• Bond ordinance for $5,556,285 in 2023 capital improvements, issuing $5,291,700 in bonds
• Ordinance to accept road widening dedication on Yacht Avenue (Block 1160, Lot 53)
• Ordinance amending police department code (Section 81)
• Resolution to award contract to Groff Tractor Mid Atlantic for $50,725 for loader forks and bucket

Boards & Commissions

The Cape May Zoning Board approved bulk variances for a rear accessory structure at 1141 Pennsylvania Avenue (7-0) but denied a use variance for a pool at the same property (0-7). The board also approved variances for building setback, lot coverage, and pool patio setback at 1260 Cape May Avenue (7-0). Two resolutions from prior meetings were adopted, and one application was adjourned to June 22.

• Approved bulk variances for rear accessory structure at 1141 Pennsylvania Ave (7-0)
• Denied use variance for pool at 1141 Pennsylvania Ave (0-7)
• Approved variances for building setback, lot coverage, pool patio setback at 1260 Cape May Ave (7-0)
• Adopted Resolution 05-25-2023:1 for 429 Beach Ave (6-0)
• Adopted Resolution 05-25-2023:2 for 240 Windsor Ave (6-0)
• Adjourned Elaine's Property Management LLC application to June 22, 2023 (7-0)
• Approved minutes of April 27, 2023 (6-0)

City Advisory Committees

The Cape May Beach Safety Committee is meeting to discuss and plan several initiatives, including beach replenishment, public education on beach and surf zone safety, marketing efforts, and a new PA system. The committee will also review and approve minutes from a prior meeting. Updates will be provided by committee members on each project.

• Beach replenishment update with projected completion in 2024
• Planning for 2nd Annual CMBP Open House on June 25th
• Discussion of lifeguard-led beach safety education
• Marketing update on brochures, social media, and website
• PA system sub-committee update with projected completion Spring/Summer 2023

Boards & Commissions

The Planning Board voted 8-0 to adopt Resolution 05-23-2023, recommending changes to the City's Master Plan, development regulations, and zoning map for the Land Use Element. The board also unanimously approved 186 Historic Preservation Commission property reports as consistent with the Master Plan. Discussion on additional recommendations related to affordable housing was deferred to a future meeting.

• Adopted Resolution 05-23-2023 recommending Master Plan, development regulations, and zoning map changes (8-0)
• Approved Historic Preservation Commission 186 Property Reports as consistent with Master Plan (8-0)
• Approved minutes of April 11, 2023 (6-0, two abstentions)

Boards & Commissions

The Environmental Commission approved using up to $1,200 from its own budget to print 7,500 copies of an invasive species pamphlet after an ANJEC grant was denied. Members discussed English ivy remediation on public and private property, with Public Works focusing on winter months and the Shade Tree Commission handling private tree issues. The commission also noted Harborview Park is overgrown and neglected, and discussed potential funding to restore it as a native plant showcase.

• Approved $1,200 from Environmental Commission budget for invasive species pamphlet printing (all in favor)
• Approved minutes from April 23, 2022
• Discussed English ivy remediation list for city properties, to be updated by members and sent to Public Works
• Noted Harborview Park needs attention; 1993 landscaping plan never implemented

City Council Meetings

The Cape May City Council is meeting to introduce two ordinances—one amending the police department code and another updating prohibited acts on the boardwalk, promenade, and beaches—and to hold a public hearing on a lease agreement with the East Lynne Theater Company for the Allen AME Church. The council will also vote on a consent agenda that includes appointments, contracts, and a resolution accepting ARPA funding. Public comments are limited to five minutes per person.

• Ordinance 502-2023: Amends Section 81 of the City Code regarding the Police Department
• Ordinance 503-2023: Amends Section 158-9 regarding prohibited acts on the boardwalk, promenade, and beaches
• Ordinance 499-2023: Authorizes lease with East Lynne Theater Company for Allen AME Church (public hearing)
• Resolution 150-05-2023: Awards bid for electric vehicle charging stations at City Hall and Welcome Center
• Resolution 149-05-2023: Accepts ARPA funding and grant agreement with Cape May County

City Council voted 4-0 to adopt Ordinance 499-2023, authorizing a lease agreement with East Lynne Theater Company for the Allen AME Church. The council also introduced ordinances to increase police patrolman positions from 15 to 18 and to prohibit manned aircraft launches from beaches and public property. Four late agenda items were added, including resolutions for sewer repairs and grant applications.

• Adopted Ordinance 499-2023 authorizing lease with East Lynne Theater Company for Allen AME Church (4-0)
• Introduced Ordinance 502-2023 amending police department patrolman positions from 15 to 18 (4-0)
• Introduced Ordinance 503-2023 prohibiting manned aircraft launches from beaches and public property, as amended (3-1)
• Approved Resolution 154-05-2023 for NJDOT Local Transportation Project Fund grant application (4-0)
• Approved Resolution 155-05-2023 for NJDOT Municipal Aid grant application (3-1)
• Approved Resolution 152-05-2023 authorizing change order for Lafayette Street sewer repairs (4-0)
• Approved Resolution 153-05-2023 authorizing change order for beach strand public announcement system (4-0)
• Adopted Consent Agenda including appointments of City Engineer and Tax Assessor, and other resolutions (4-0)

Boards & Commissions

The Historic Preservation Commission approved six resolutions for properties at 236 Grant St, 300 Howard St, 1239 New York Ave, 10 North St, 1035 Washington St, and 1102 Lafayette St. It also approved 18 applications reviewed in review, including decks, fences, windows, and HVAC enclosures. The commission granted final approval for several projects, including a new house at 105 Queen St, a pool house at 402 Clay St, and renovations at 504 Jefferson St. A draft of the HPC Design Standards was approved subject to final review.

• Approved Resolutions 2023-14 through 2023-19 (7-0)
• Approved 18 applications reviewed in review (7-0)
• Approved final submission for new house at 105 Queen St (7-0)
• Approved final submission for pool house at 402 Clay St (7-0)
• Approved final submission for renovations at 504 Jefferson St (7-0)
• Approved final approval for rear decks at 434 West Perry St (7-0)
• Granted conceptual approval for garage addition at 609 Hughes St (5-2)
• Approved draft of HPC Design Standards subject to final review (7-0)

Boards & Commissions

The Shade Tree Commission voted to approve minutes from two prior meetings and upheld previous denials of tree removal requests at 409 Jefferson Street, 20 Patterson Avenue, and 1161 Lafayette Street. A request to remove a street tree at 1229 Vermont Avenue was referred for an arborist appraisal. No new ordinances or contracts were approved.

• Approved minutes of April 11, 2023 (all present, one abstention)
• Approved minutes of April 18, 2023 (all present, two abstentions)
• Upheld denial of tree removal at 409 Jefferson Street (homeowner request to reconsider)
• Upheld denial of tree removal at 20 Patterson Avenue
• Upheld denial of tree removal at 1161 Lafayette Street (trimming recommended instead)
• Referred 1229 Vermont Avenue street tree removal request for arborist appraisal
• Agreed to distribute construction plans to all commissioners
• Scheduled future meeting to discuss Shade Tree Commission ordinance revisions

Boards & Commissions

The City of Cape May Planning Board meeting scheduled for Tuesday, May 9, 2023 has been cancelled. All documents, applications, actions, and decisions of the Board remain on file and available for review at City Hall, and meeting dates, minutes, and legal notices are posted on the City's website.

• Planning Board meeting cancelled for May 9, 2023
• Documents and applications available at City Hall Board Office, 643 Washington Street
• Meeting dates, minutes, and legal notices posted on City website

City Council Meetings

The Cape May City Council is holding a work session to discuss a beach safety brochure and a dune vegetation management plan, and to introduce two bond ordinances totaling $7,556,285 for water-sewer utility improvements and various 2025 capital projects. The council will also consider a consent agenda that includes accepting a Cops in Shops grant, approving the dune vegetation plan, and authorizing professional service contracts for grant applications. A closed session is scheduled for a COAH update and discussion of engineering professional services.

• Bond ordinance 500-2023: $2,000,000 for water-sewer utility improvements
• Bond ordinance 501-2023: $5,556,285 for 2023 capital improvements, with $5,291,700 in bonds
• Resolution 136-05-2023: Accepting FFY2023 Cops in Shops Grant
• Resolution 137-05-2023: Approving Dune Vegetation Management Plan by Lomax Consulting Group
• Resolution 139-05-2023: Authorizing Deblasio & Associates for USDA grant/loan application for sanitary sewer replacement

Council voted unanimously to adopt a Dune Vegetation Management Plan and introduced two bond ordinances totaling $7,556,285 for water-sewer and capital improvements. A consent agenda was adopted including grants and budget amendments, and a closed session was held for litigation and personnel discussions.

• Approved Dune Vegetation Management Plan (5-0)
• Introduced $2M bond for water-sewer improvements (5-0)
• Introduced $5.56M bond for capital improvements (5-0)
• Adopted consent agenda including grant acceptance and budget amendment (5-0)
• Approved contract for NJDOT grant applications (5-0)
• Approved closed session resolution as amended (5-0)

City Council Meetings

The Cape May City Council is holding a special meeting on May 2, 2023, at 4:00 PM. The only substantive item is a resolution to hold a closed session to discuss the position of the Tax Assessor. The meeting is otherwise procedural, with public comment limited to five minutes per person.

• Resolution 135-05-2023 to hold a closed session regarding the Tax Assessor position
• Public comment period with 5-minute limit per speaker
• Meeting held in-person at City Hall auditorium, 643 Washington Street, and streamed live on YouTube

The City Council held a special meeting on May 2, 2023, and unanimously approved a resolution to go into closed session to discuss the position of Tax Assessor. No public comments were heard, and no official action was taken during the closed session. The meeting adjourned shortly after returning to open session.

• Approved resolution 135-05-2023 to enter closed session for Tax Assessor position (5-0)

Boards & Commissions

The Cape May Zoning Board of Adjustment will hold a regular meeting on April 27, 2023, at 6:00 PM in the City Hall Auditorium. The board will vote on three resolutions involving properties at 1301 Beach Avenue, 5 Rosemans Lane, and 905 Page Street. It will also hear three applications, including one for 513 Lafayette Street, which the chairperson recommends be adjourned. The meeting includes public comment and discussion periods.

• Resolution 04-27-2023:1 for Cape CJ LLC at 1301 Beach Avenue, Block 1146, Lots 26.02, 27 & 28
• Resolution 04-27-2023:2 for Rosemans Marina LLC at 5 Rosemans Lane, Block 1061, Lots 130 & 131
• Resolution 04-27-2023:3 for Steven Steger at 905 Page Street, Block 1090, Lot 57
• Application by Elaine's Property Management LLC at 513 Lafayette Street, Block 1053, Lot 13 — chairperson recommends adjournment
• Applications by 429 Beach Avenue LLC and Nicholas Mitch for properties at 429 Beach Avenue and 240 Windsor Avenue

The Zoning Board of Adjustment denied a use variance for 429 Beach Avenue LLC to add 12 hotel rooms above an existing restaurant at 429 Beach Avenue. The vote was 0-7, with all members opposed. The board also approved a separate application for deck expansions at 240 Windsor Avenue (7-0) and adopted resolutions for Cape CJ LLC and Rosemans Marina LLC.

• Denied use variance for 12-room hotel at 429 Beach Avenue (0-7)
• Approved variances for deck expansions at 240 Windsor Avenue (7-0)
• Adopted Resolution 04-27-2023:1 for Cape CJ LLC, 1301 Beach Avenue (3-1)
• Adopted Resolution 04-27-2023:2 for Rosemans Marina LLC, 5 Rosemans Lane (4-0)
• Adopted Resolution 04-27-2023:3 for Rosemans Marina LLC, 5 Rosemans Lane (4-0)
• Adjourned application for Elaine’s Property Management LLC, 513 Lafayette Street to May 25, 2023 (7-0)
• Approved minutes of March 23, 2023 (4-0)

Boards & Commissions

The Cape May City Environmental Commission is meeting to approve minutes from March 28, 2023, and receive updates from members and liaisons. Reports will cover the Planning Board, council updates, an invasive species brochure, Earth Day dune grass plantings, a spring clean-up, and Oceanfest on June 17, 2023. The commission will also hear a report on ocean warming and carbon sequestration, followed by a public comment period.

• Approval of minutes from March 28, 2023
• Update on invasive species brochure
• Report on Earth Day dune grass plantings
• Spring Clean Up at Nature Center and beach sweep
• Oceanfest scheduled for Saturday, June 17, 2023

Boards & Commissions

The City of Cape May Planning Board work session scheduled for Tuesday, April 25, 2023, has been cancelled. The notice states that all documents, applications, actions, and decisions of the Board remain on file and available for review at City Hall. The cancellation was posted publicly in compliance with the Open Public Meetings Act.

• Planning Board work session cancelled for April 25, 2023
• Documents and decisions available at City Hall Board Office, 643 Washington Street
• Notice posted to local newspapers and City website per Open Public Meetings Act

Boards & Commissions

The Historic Preservation Commission held a special meeting to review a draft of updated design standards, which are over 20 years old. Consultant Steven Smolyn presented the draft chapter-by-chapter, and the Commission along with the Solicitor provided comments. A final draft will be brought back after further HPC input, then reviewed by the Planning Board and City Council following HPC approval. No formal decisions were made; the meeting was procedural and discussion-only.

• Reviewed draft of updated Historic Preservation Commission Design Standards (no vote taken)
• Consultant Steven Smolyn will return with a final draft after further HPC input
• Final draft to be reviewed by Planning Board and City Council after HPC approval at a public meeting
• Meeting adjourned by motion (all in favor)

City Council Meetings

The City Council adopted the 2023 municipal budget with a 0% tax increase, funded in part by increased occupancy tax revenue and a $150,000 transfer from surplus for two new police officers. Council also introduced a lease agreement with East Lynne Theater Company for the Allen AME Church and adopted several zoning and administrative ordinances. All budget resolutions and the consent agenda were approved unanimously.

• Adopted 2023 municipal budget with 0% tax increase (Resolution 127-04-2023, unanimous).
• Approved $150,000 transfer from surplus to police salaries for two new hires (Resolution 126-04-2023, unanimous).
• Introduced Ordinance 499-2023 authorizing a lease with East Lynne Theater Company for the Allen AME Church (4-1, Meier dissenting).
• Adopted Ordinance 492-2023 amending zoning code on bulk setbacks and non-conforming structures (unanimous).
• Adopted Ordinance 493-2023 affirming tax collector authority over NSF check payments (unanimous).
• Adopted Ordinance 494-2023 establishing restricted areas in municipal buildings to safeguard records (unanimous).
• Adopted Ordinance 496-2023 prohibiting parking on city-owned property on Capehart Lane (unanimous).
• Adopted Ordinance 497-2023 to exceed budget appropriation limits and establish a cap bank for 2023 (unanimous).

Boards & Commissions

The Cape May Historic Preservation Commission is meeting to consider resolutions for four properties and review applications for work on historic and non-contributing structures. The agenda includes old and new business items such as renovations, demolitions, and additions, with one application already denied. Public comment is scheduled.

• Resolution #2023-10: KGIII, LLC, 1215 Lafayette Street
• Resolution #2023-11: 1121 New York Ave, LLC, 1121 New York Avenue
• Resolution #2023-12: Adis, Inc., 1317 Beach Avenue
• Resolution #2023-13: Berczynski, 651 Broad Street
• Denied: Richard Crossed Trustee, 915 Beach Avenue – front yard driveway

City Advisory Committees

The Municipal Taxation and Revenue Advisory Committee is meeting to discuss shared services agreements, parking revenue options, and the revenue potential of city-owned beachfront lots. The agenda is substantive, with these items listed for discussion, though no decisions are recorded in the agenda.

• Shared Services Agreements / Contractual Review
• Parking Revenue Options
• Revenue Potential City-owned Beachfront Lots

Boards & Commissions

The Commission approved an exception to remove a street tree at 1227 Maryland Avenue due to root intrusion into the sewer pipe, citing past efforts and expense. A new tree will be planted farther from the pipe. The Commission also discussed revisions to the shade tree ordinance to protect trees at construction sites, and scheduled an April 18 meeting to review ordinance changes and Kiwanis Park renovation.

• Approved minutes of March 14, 2023 meeting (all present, two abstentions)
• Approved exception to remove street tree at 1227 Maryland Avenue (all in favor)
• Approved Michigan Avenue 50/50 sidewalk replacement application (recommended by Jay)
• Tabled decision on 1352 Delaware Avenue evergreen tree pending homeowner request and site visit
• Scheduled April 18, 2023 meeting to review Shade Tree Ordinance revisions and Kiwanis Park renovation

Boards & Commissions

The board voted 8-0 to forward a set of ten zoning and land-use amendments to City Council, including adding a property at Block 1061, Lot 16 to the R-3 district and a minor text correction. The board also approved the March 14 meeting minutes and adopted a resolution for Thomas DiDonato/Cape May Cove LLC.

• Adopted Resolution 04-11-2023 for Thomas DiDonato, Cape May Cove LLC, 1105 Pittsburgh Avenue, 40 Harbor Cove, 1134 Lafayette Street (5-0)
• Approved meeting minutes of March 14, 2023 (6-0)
• Recommended amendments to the Master Plan, Development Regulations, and Zoning Map – Land Use Element, including adding Block 1061, Lot 16 to Recommendation 12 and correcting §525-55A(5)(a) (8-0)

City Council Meetings

The Cape May City Council is holding a special meeting with a public portion followed by a closed session. The closed session will discuss an affordable housing proposal by Yacht Harbor Marine LLC and an update on the COAH Trust Fund matter. No action is guaranteed.

• Closed session to discuss affordable housing proposal by Yacht Harbor Marine LLC
• Update on COAH Trust Fund matter
• Public comments limited to 5 minutes per speaker
• Meeting held in-person at City Hall auditorium, 643 Washington Street

The Cape May City Council voted 4-0 to enter a closed session to discuss an affordable housing proposal by Yacht Harbor Marine LLC and an update on the COAH trust fund matter. No votes or decisions were made during the closed session, which lasted from 4:05 to 5:00 PM. The meeting was otherwise procedural.

• Approved closed session resolution 4-0 (Councilmember Meier absent) to discuss affordable housing proposal and COAH trust fund update
• No official action taken during closed session

City Council Meetings

The Cape May City Council is holding a work session to introduce ordinances on minimum parking regulations and a road widening dedication on Yacht Avenue, and to consider adopting an ordinance on metered parking areas. The consent agenda includes resolutions for a fire station construction change order, Convention Hall facade repairs, and a park ADA compliance project, among other administrative items.

• Ordinance 495-2023: minimum parking limitations and regulations for all vehicles
• Ordinance 498-2023: accept road widening dedication on Yacht Avenue (Block 1160, Lot 53)
• Ordinance 491-2023: confirm metered parking areas and add Welcome Center parking
• Resolution 116-04-2023: change order for Cape May City Fire Station construction
• Resolution 120-04-2023: award for Convention Hall facade repair and restoration

Boards & Commissions

The Cape May City Environmental Commission is meeting to handle routine business, including approving minutes and receiving reports. They will also discuss funding $1,000 for Oceanfest, updates on dune grass planting, and the state of the seawall along Delaware Avenue.

• Approve $1,000 from budget for Oceanfest on June 17, 2023
• Discuss printing invasive species brochure via ANJEC grant
• Update on dune grass planting
• Comment on seawall condition along Delaware Avenue
• Update on offshore wind and whale deaths from NJ BPU

Boards & Commissions

The City of Cape May Planning Board work session scheduled for Tuesday, March 28, 2023, has been cancelled. The agenda contains only this cancellation notice and no substantive items for discussion or decision.

• Planning Board work session cancelled for March 28, 2023

Boards & Commissions

The Cape May Zoning Board of Adjustment is meeting to consider four applications, including a resolution for a property on Sewell Avenue and applications for properties on Beach Avenue, Rosemans Lane, and Page Street. The board will also take public comment and discuss any other matters. This is a regular meeting with both a resolution and multiple applications on the agenda.

• Resolution 03-23-2023:1 for Christopher & Carol Czumbil, 944 Sewell Avenue, Block 1088, Lot(s) 4, C-2
• Application by Cape CJ LLC for 1301 Beach Avenue, Block 1146, Lot(s) 26.02, 27 & 28
• Application by Rosemans Marina LLC for 5 Rosemans Lane, Block 1061, Lot(s) 130 & 131
• Application by Steven Steger for 905 Page Street, Block 1090, Lot(s) 57
• Oath of office for a new board member

City Council Meetings

The Cape May City Council is holding its regular meeting on March 21, 2023, where it will introduce the 2023 municipal budget and six ordinances covering zoning, parking, tax collection, and budget cap authority. The council will also vote on a consent agenda with resolutions for contracts, grants, and agreements, and will hear public comments on resolutions only.

• Introduction of 2023 municipal budget (Resolution 96-03-2023)
• Ordinance 492-2023 amending zoning code for bulk setbacks to public property and non-conforming structures
• Ordinance 495-2023 establishing minimum parking limitations for all vehicles
• Ordinance 496-2023 prohibiting parking on city-owned property at Capehart Lane (Block 1031, Lot 44.03)
• Resolution 99-03-2023 authorizing competitive contracting for tourist transportation services

The council introduced the 2023 municipal budget, which proposes a 0% tax increase for homeowners. Several ordinances were introduced, including zoning code amendments and parking regulations, while one parking ordinance was tabled. The council also approved resolutions for emergency sewer repairs, a mutual aid agreement, and a contract for tourist transportation services.

• Introduced 2023 budget with 0% tax increase (unanimous)
• Introduced ordinance amending zoning code for bulk setbacks (5-0)
• Tabled ordinance on minimum parking limitations (5-0)
• Approved $2.1M road contract (5-2)
• Approved resolution for emergency Lafayette Street sewer repairs (5-0)
• Approved mutual aid agreement with West Cape May (5-0)
• Approved resolution for tourist transportation services (5-0)
• Approved consent agenda including sale of surplus property and engineering contract (5-0)

Boards & Commissions

The Historic Preservation Commission approved three resolutions and a large batch of applications for work on historic properties, all by 7-0 votes. They also granted final or conceptual approvals for several individual projects, including a rear deck stair relocation, a rear addition, a pool relocation, and solar panels. Two applications were tabled after the commission found the proposals inappropriate for the historic district.

• Approved Resolutions 2023-07, 2023-08, and 2023-09 (7-0)
• Approved 40+ applications for work on historic properties (7-0)
• Granted final approval for KG III LLC deck stair relocation, conditional on all-wood materials (7-0)
• Granted final approval for 1121 New York Avenue LLC rear addition, conditional on asphalt shingles and revised parking plan (7-0)
• Granted final approval for ADIS INC pool relocation at La Mer (7-0)
• Granted final approval for Bercznski solar panel installation (7-0)
• Tabled Bogle Family rooftop deck application pending revised drawings and 3D rendering
• Tabled Clemens elevation and front porch application for revision to meet historic standards

Boards & Commissions

The Cape May Shade Tree Commission is meeting to review tree maintenance bills, approve or deny tree removal permits, and discuss planning/zoning requests. The agenda includes several approved permits, two denied removal requests, and follow-up on prior business.

• Approved tree removal permits for 1248 Missouri Ave, 7 First Ave, 1065 Idaho Ave, 217 Perry St, 1062 Illinois Ave, 535 Bank St
• Denied tree removal permits for 1247 Lafayette St and 20 Patterson Ave
• Approved planning/zoning requests for 1317 Beach Ave, 5 Rosemans Ln, 944 Sewell Ave, 429 Beach Ave, 905 Page St
• Tree maintenance bills from Menear totaling $970
• Denied street tree removal/trimming request for 347 Congress St

The Shade Tree Commission tabled a decision on removing a gum tree at 1227 Maryland Avenue that interferes with a sewer line, recommending a professional pipe cleaning instead. It also recommended that a property owner at 329 Congress Street remove two leaning trees at his own expense, with the city removing an oak on Claghorn. The commission discussed strengthening ordinances, proper tree trimming, and Kiwanis Park plans, but took no final votes on those items.

• Tabled decision on removing gum tree at 1227 Maryland Ave, recommended professional pipe cleaning (unanimous)
• Recommended owner remove two trees on Congress St at own expense, city to remove oak on Claghorn (unanimous)
• Approved amendment to replace 'cost' with 'fee' in prior minutes (unanimous)

Boards & Commissions

The Cape May Planning Board is meeting to consider two applications: a subdivision for Cape May Cove LLC at 1105 Pittsburgh Avenue and a matter for Adis, Inc. at 1317 Beach Avenue. The board will also approve minutes from the previous meeting and discuss any other business.

• Application by Thomas DiDonato / Cape May Cove LLC for subdivision at 1105 Pittsburgh Avenue (Block 1172, Lots 4.01-4.13)
• Application by Adis, Inc. at 1317 Beach Avenue (Block 1146, Lots 10, 6, 7, 11-24)
• Approval of minutes from February 14, 2023 meeting
• Resolution 03-14-2023:1

The Planning Board voted 7-1 to grant amended site plan approval allowing two affordable housing units to be built offsite at 1134 Lafayette Street instead of onsite at the Pittsburgh Avenue development. The decision modifies a 2010 approval that required the units be built on the Pittsburgh property. The applicant, Cape May Cove LLC, will provide a two-bedroom very low income rental and a three-bedroom low income rental at the Lafayette Street location, with the units deed-restricted for at least 30 years.

• Approved amended preliminary and final site plan for Cape May Cove LLC, allowing offsite affordable housing at 1134 Lafayette Street (7-1)
• Adopted Resolution 03-14-2023:1 for Adis, Inc., 1317 Beach Avenue (6-0, 2 abstentions)
• Approved meeting minutes of February 14, 2023 (7-0, 1 abstention)

City Advisory Committees

The Municipal Taxation and Revenue Advisory Committee is meeting to discuss the 2023 budget overview, parking revenue, and beach utility improvements. The meeting is open to the public and will be live streamed.

• Parking revenue discussion
• 2023 budget overview
• Beach utility improvements

City Council Meetings

This is a special meeting of the Cape May City Council, held in person and live-streamed. The main item is a resolution to enter a closed session to discuss an affordable housing proposal by Yacht Harbor Marine LLC, the New Jersey Asset & Rebate Management Program, the reappointment of the City Clerk, and a contract for Deputy Fire Chief Eck. A public comment period is included, but no other substantive business is listed.

• Closed session discussion of affordable housing proposal by Yacht Harbor Marine LLC
• Discussion of New Jersey Asset & Rebate Management Program (NJ/ARM)
• Reappointment of the City Clerk
• Deputy Fire Chief Eck contract
• Public comment limited to 5 minutes per speaker

The council held a special meeting that consisted entirely of a closed session to discuss an affordable housing proposal, the NJ Asset & Rebate Management Program, reappointment of the city clerk, and contracts for the deputy fire chief and police captain. No votes on these items were taken during the meeting.

• Approved closed session resolution (5-0)
• No official action taken on any discussed items

City Council Meetings

The Cape May City Council is holding a work session with two public hearings: one to adopt an updated salary and classification plan for city personnel, and another to confirm metered parking areas and add new parking at the Welcome Center. The consent agenda includes appointments, a concert series contract, and several infrastructure and renovation resolutions.

• Ordinance 487-2022: update Uniform Salary and Classification Plan for city personnel
• Ordinance 491-2023: confirm metered parking areas and add parking at Welcome Center
• Resolution 86-03-2023: contract with Spy Boy Productions for 2023 Convention Hall summer concert series
• Resolution 90-03-2023: readvertise bids for Kiwanis Community Park ADA compliance project
• Resolution 91-03-2023: advertise bids for interior renovations at 702 Beach Avenue

The council voted unanimously to reappoint Erin C. Burke as City Clerk and Registrar of Vital Statistics, and adopted a consent agenda that included appointments to boards, contracts for the summer concert series, grant applications, and employment agreements for Deputy Fire Chief Michael Eck and John Bobik. An ordinance to update the salary and classification plan was adopted, and an ordinance on metered parking was amended to include the Welcome Center and reintroduced. Public comments raised concerns about drainage and safety on Capehart Lane, which the mayor said is addressed in the proposed 2023 budget.

• Reappointed Erin C. Burke as City Clerk and Registrar of Vital Statistics (5-0)
• Adopted consent agenda including appointments, contracts, and employment agreements (5-0)
• Adopted Ordinance 487-2022 updating the uniform salary and classification plan (5-0)
• Amended and reintroduced Ordinance 491-2023 to include Welcome Center in metered parking framework (5-0)

Boards & Commissions

The Cape May Zoning Board of Adjustment is meeting to consider a zoning application for 944 Sewell Avenue and to formally adjourn a previously filed application for 513 Lafayette Street to the April 27, 2023 meeting. The board will also discuss any other matters deemed necessary.

• Application by Christopher & Carol Czumbil for 944 Sewell Avenue, Block 1088, Lot(s) 4, C-2
• Application by Elaine's Property Management LLC for 513 Lafayette Street, Block 1053, Lot(s) 13, adjourned to April 27, 2023
• Approval of minutes from January 26, 2023 meeting

City Advisory Committees

The Cape May Beach Safety Committee is meeting to review 2022 goals and plan for 2023, including beach safety education, marketing, PA system updates, and beach replenishment. They will discuss a $1,000 USLA grant for education and a beach speaker contract. The meeting is primarily a working session for subcommittees to set goals and timelines.

• USLA grant for education: $1,000, needs approval, to be pushed for February Council meeting agenda
• 2nd Annual CMBP Open House on Sunday, June 25th, with junior guard and lifeguard demonstrations
• Beach speaker contract update for PA system
• Beach replenishment demonstration project RFP update, projected completion 2024/2 year estimate
• Lifeguard-led beach safety education and PA system announcements for water conditions, tides, weather

City Council Meetings

The City Council adopted three ordinances: updating the uniform salary and classification plan, updating ambulance and emergency service fees, and amending tree regulations to eliminate posting on trees. The salary ordinance was tabled to March 7, 2023, after a public hearing. The council also approved a consent agenda including resolutions for a vehicle exhaust removal system at the fire station and other items.

• Tabled Ordinance 487-2022 (salary and classification plan) to March 7, 2023, after a public hearing
• Adopted Ordinance 489-2023 updating ambulance and emergency service fees
• Adopted Ordinance 490-2023 amending tree regulations to eliminate posting on trees
• Approved Consent Agenda including minutes, reports, and resolutions 75-02-2023 through 82-02-2023
• Awarded contract for supply, delivery, and installation of source capture vehicle exhaust removal system (Resolution 80-02-2023)
• Awarded contract for professional services surveying for Lafayette Street Park Phase 4 (Resolution 81-02-2023)
• Authorized change order for Pennsylvania Avenue Road Reconstruction Phase 6 (Resolution 79-02-2023)
• Approved payment of bills (Resolution 82-02-2023)

City Advisory Committees

The Cape May Bike and Pedestrian Advisory Committee (BAPAC) is meeting to discuss updates on low-speed vehicle (LSV) proposals, road safety projects (including Madison/Lafayette, Pittsburgh, Beach, Lafayette roads), and a new grant process. They will also cover signage and wayfinding, and hear public comments.

• Update on LSV proposal to MTRAC
• Discussion of Safe Routes to School (SRTS) at Madison/Lafayette traffic light
• Road safety updates: Pittsburgh, Beach, Lafayette roads, Police Station/St. Johns St, Lafayette Park, AtCityEl and Elmira, Mt. Vernon Rd
• New grant process explanation for BAPAC
• Signage and wayfinding discussion

The Cape May Bike & Pedestrian Advisory Committee (BAPAC) met to discuss ongoing road work, safety improvements, and grant opportunities. No formal votes or binding decisions were taken; the meeting was advisory and procedural. Key topics included Pittsburgh Ave markings, Lafayette St safety concerns, and a recommendation to assign a Class 2 officer for education and enforcement.

• Approved minutes of prior meeting (unanimous)
• Discussed road work on Pittsburgh Ave, Lafayette St, Beach Ave, and Safe Route to School
• BAPAC expressed concern about narrow Madison and Lafayette intersection
• BAPAC strongly recommended assigning Class 2 officer(s) for education and enforcement
• BAPAC recommended addressing continuation of 2007 Cape May Bike Walk report
• Discussed Roads to Safety Grant and drafting recommendation for BAPAC participation
• Discussed HAWK signal at Lafayette/Decateur/Bank and Elmira St repaving
• No binding decisions or votes taken on any policy or funding item

Boards & Commissions

The Cape May Shade Tree Commission is meeting to approve minutes, review correspondence, and discuss finances including year-to-date budgets. The commission will also consider tree removal permits, with several approved and denied, and welcome new members.

• Tree removal permits: 1238 Washington St denied, 1333 Wisconsin Ave denied, 925 Corgie St approved, 213 Grant St approved, 223 Perry St denied, 301 Queen St approved, 1224 Lafayette St approved, 1221 Vermont Ave approved, 1021 New Jersey Ave approved, 1000 New York Ave approved, 1210 New York Ave approved, 1027 Maryland Ave approved w/conditions, 1035 Washington St approved
• Street tree removal/trimming requests denied: 1341 Pennsylvania Ave, 915 Benton Ave
• Sidewalk repair: Troiano - $500.00
• Welcome new members: George Werner, Robert Craft, James Van Pelt

The Shade Tree Commission denied a request to remove a street tree at 210 Perry Street and sent a letter to the homeowner. The City Manager supported the decision to deny removal at 1237 Washington Street. Other items discussed included a resident's concern about tree roots affecting drainage, a request to plant trees in Kiwanis Park, and an ordinance subcommittee update.

• Denied tree removal at 210 Perry Street
• City Manager supported denial of tree removal at 1237 Washington Street

Boards & Commissions

The Cape May Planning Board is meeting to review an application from Adis, Inc. for properties at 1317 Beach Avenue (Block 1146, Lots 10, 6, 7, 11-24). The board will also consider minutes from the January 24, 2023 meeting and discuss any other matters deemed necessary, with possible action taken.

• Application by Adis, Inc. for 1317 Beach Avenue, Block 1146, Lots 10, 6, 7, 11-24
• Approval of minutes from January 24, 2023 meeting
• Discussion of any and all matters deemed necessary by the Board, with possible action

The Planning Board unanimously approved preliminary and final site plan approval for Adis, Inc. to renovate the pool and patio areas at 1317 Beach Avenue (La Mer Beachfront Resort). The project includes an indoor/outdoor restaurant expansion and pool relocation, with no new variances and no change to guest accommodations or the 146 restaurant seats. The approval was subject to conditions including waivers and recommendations from the Board Engineer, Shade Tree Commission, and Historic Preservation Commission.

• Approved preliminary and final site plan for Adis, Inc. at 1317 Beach Avenue (9-0)
• Approved meeting minutes of January 24, 2023 (6-0)

City Council Meetings

The Cape May City Council is holding a special meeting to discuss an update on the Harron litigation. The agenda includes a resolution to enter a closed session for this discussion, followed by a public comment period. No other substantive items are listed.

• Resolution 64-02-2023 to hold a closed session for an update on Harron litigation
• Public comment period limited to 5 minutes per speaker
• Meeting held in-person at City Hall auditorium, 643 Washington Street, and live-streamed on YouTube

The City Council held a special meeting that consisted almost entirely of a closed session to receive an update on the Harron litigation, as authorized by a resolution passed 3-0. The closed session lasted from 4:34 PM to 4:55 PM, after which the council returned to open session and adjourned with no official action taken.

• Approved Resolution 64-02-2023 to hold a closed session under the Open Public Meetings Act for an update on Harron litigation (3-0, with two members absent)
• Entered closed session at 4:34 PM and adjourned it at 4:55 PM with no official action taken
• Adjourned the special meeting at 5:01 PM by unanimous vote

City Council Meetings

The Cape May City Council work session includes an ordinance to expand metered parking near the Welcome Center, plus several resolutions. Notable actions include a contract for electric vehicle charging stations not to exceed $432,303.87, a call for a moratorium on offshore wind surveying and acoustic testing, and appointments to city boards.

• Ordinance 491-2023 confirming metered parking areas and adding parking at the Welcome Center
• Resolution 70-02-2023 authorizing contract with Bryan Electrics for EV charging stations, up to $432,303.87
• Resolution 69-02-2023 calling for a moratorium on offshore wind surveying/acoustic testing pending investigation into whale deaths
• Resolution 68-02-2023 authorizing contract with Deblasio & Associates for sanitary sewer condition evaluation
• Resolution 66-02-2023 authorizing participation in 2022 Safety Incentive Program of Atlantic County Municipal Joint Insurance Fund

Council appointed a temporary Chief Financial Officer, settled a litigation dispute with Bryan Harron, and removed a resolution to award a $432,303.87 contract for EV charging stations while adding a resolution to advertise bids for the same. A parking ordinance was introduced to simplify citywide parking policy and add metered parking at the Welcome Center.

• Appointed temporary Chief Financial Officer (5-0)
• Settled dispute between City and Bryan Harron (4-0-1 abstention)
• Removed resolution to award $432,303.87 EV charging station contract (5-0)
• Added resolution to advertise bids for EV charging stations at City Hall and Welcome Center to consent agenda (5-0)
• Introduced ordinance confirming metered parking areas and adding Welcome Center parking (5-0)
• Adopted consent agenda including resolutions on Shade Tree Commission appointment, safety incentive program, grant acceptance, offshore wind moratorium, sewer evaluation contract, bill payment, and EV charging station bid advertisement (5-0)

Boards & Commissions

The Cape May Historic Preservation Commission is meeting to review and decide on numerous applications for work on historic and non-contributing properties, including roofs, siding, porches, and other alterations. The agenda also includes new business on the city's sea wall project and old business on a condominium development and a porch/driveway project. The meeting is open to the public.

• 18 property applications for alterations (roofs, siding, porches, etc.)
• City of Cape May Sea Wall Project (Block 1106 to Block 1185)
• Yacht Harbor Marine LLC: 7 new condominium units at 1505 Yacht Avenue
• Fernando: rear addition at 729 Washington Street
• Drake: detached garage at 17 Broadway

The Historic Preservation Commission voted 7-0 to favor the City of Cape May's seawall project from Kiwanis Club to the Army Corps project, with a detailed advisory report to follow. The commission also approved five resolutions and 16 applications for historic property work, and granted final approvals for several projects including a new condominium development and a rear addition. One application for deck stairs was denied 0-7, and another for a detached garage was tabled.

• Approved Resolutions #2023-02 through #2023-06 (5-0)
• Approved 16 applications for historic property work (5-0)
• Favored City seawall project with advisory report (7-0)
• Granted final approval for Yacht Harbor Marine condominium project (7-0)
• Granted final approval for Wehmeyer front porch and driveway (7-0)
• Granted final approval for Fernando rear addition and repairs (7-0)
• Denied KG III LLC deck stairs application (0-7)
• Tabled Drake detached garage application with time extension (7-0)

Boards & Commissions

The Cape May Zoning Board of Adjustment held an organizational meeting, electing Terri Werner as Chairperson and Sam Venuto as Vice Chairperson. The board appointed Richard King as Board Attorney and Craig Hurless as Board Engineer, and adopted meeting dates and official newspapers. Several resolutions were approved, including contracts and specific property applications, and one application was adjourned to a future meeting.

• Elected Terri Werner as Chairperson (6-0)
• Elected Sam Venuto as Vice Chairperson (6-0)
• Appointed Richard King as Board Attorney (7-0)
• Appointed Craig Hurless as Board Engineer (7-0)
• Adopted 2023 meeting dates and time (7-0)
• Designated Cape May County Herald and Press of Atlantic City as official newspapers (7-0)
• Adopted Resolution 01-26-2023:3 for Paul and Nancy Valentine, 1312 Maryland Avenue (3-0)
• Adopted Resolution 01-26-2023:4 for John Kilgannon, 620 ½ Hughes Street (4-0)

City Advisory Committees

The Cape May Beach Safety Committee is meeting to review 2022 goals and plan for 2023, including beach safety education, a PA system contract, and a beach replenishment demonstration project. They will also approve minutes from the September meeting and set meeting dates for the year.

• Review and critique of 2022 goals, brainstorming for 2023 goals
• Update on in-school beach safety education curriculum
• Update on beach speaker contract for PA system
• Beach replenishment demonstration project RFP update
• Marketing initiatives: junior guard/lifeguard video challenge, hotel literature with QR codes

Boards & Commissions

The Planning Board discussed 45 recommended changes to the Master Plan, development regulations, and zoning map. They identified initial 'low-hanging fruit' items for first-tier review and set aside more complex items for second-tier evaluation. No final decisions were made; the board will review draft ordinance changes from the engineer and solicitor before sending recommendations to City Council.

• Approved minutes of January 10, 2023 (7-0, with two abstentions)
• Identified first-tier Master Plan recommendations for initial review (e.g., bulk regulations, lot frontage typos, sign regulations, outdoor shower size, fencing, building height, parking standards, lighting, landscaping, flagpoles, flood compliance, patio/deck width)
• Set second-tier items for later evaluation (R-1 and R-4 district standards, workforce housing, parking trust account, permeable pavers, FEMA CRS changes)
• Engineer to propose ordinance changes and work with solicitor to draft revisions for board review and City Council submission

City Council Meetings

The Cape May City Council is holding a regular meeting with several ordinances up for introduction, including updates to the salary plan, ambulance and emergency service fees, and tree regulations. A public hearing will be held on an ordinance to amend purchasing procedures to require adequate security and control for city software. The council will also consider adopting an ordinance on stormwater management and grading requirements, and will vote on a consent agenda containing various reports and resolutions, including contracts and grant applications.

• Ordinance 489-2023 to update ambulance and emergency service fees
• Ordinance 490-2023 to update tree regulations and eliminate posting on trees
• Public hearing on Ordinance 488-2022 regarding software security in purchasing procedures
• Resolution authorizing contract with Deblasio & Associates for Lafayette Street utility improvements
• Resolution authorizing change order for Pennsylvania Avenue Phase 7 reconstruction

City Council introduced three ordinances updating the salary plan, ambulance fees, and tree regulations, and adopted two ordinances on stormwater management and software security. A resolution to confirm city advisory committees for 2023 was approved, but an amendment to renew the Parking Advisory Committee failed. Several other resolutions were adopted, including a change order for Pennsylvania Avenue Phase 7 and a grant application for indoor recreation at Convention Hall.

• Introduced ordinance updating uniform salary and classification plan (5-0)
• Introduced ordinance amending ambulance and emergency service fees (5-0)
• Introduced ordinance updating tree regulations and eliminating posting on trees (5-0)
• Adopted ordinance on minimum stormwater management and grading requirements (5-0)
• Adopted ordinance on purchasing procedures for software security (5-0)
• Approved resolution confirming city advisory committees for 2023, without renewing Parking Advisory Committee (4-1)
• Approved resolution authorizing change order for Pennsylvania Avenue Phase 7, amended to $80,398.43 (5-0)
• Approved resolution authorizing change order for Allen AME Church Restoration Phase 1 (5-0)

City Council Meetings

The Cape May City Council is holding a special meeting on January 12, 2023, with the main action being a resolution to enter a closed session to discuss the position of the Chief Financial Officer. The meeting is in-person at City Hall and live-streamed, with a public comment period limited to five minutes per speaker.

• Resolution 50-01-2023 to hold a closed session under N.J.S.A. 10:4-12 regarding the Chief Financial Officer position
• Public comment period with 5-minute limit per speaker
• Meeting held in-person at 643 Washington Street, Cape May, NJ

The City Council held a special meeting on January 12, 2023, that consisted almost entirely of a closed session. The only resolution passed was to enter closed session to discuss the position of Chief Financial Officer, citing the Open Public Meetings Act. The closed session lasted from 4:08 PM to 5:38 PM, after which the council returned to open session and immediately adjourned with no official action taken.

• Approved resolution 50-01-2023 to enter closed session for CFO position discussion (5-0)
• Adjourned special meeting at 5:40 PM with no substantive decisions

City Council Meetings

The Cape May City Council is holding a special meeting on January 10, 2023, at 4:00 PM in the City Hall auditorium. The main item is a resolution to enter a closed session to discuss the position of Chief Financial Officer, as permitted under New Jersey's Open Public Meetings Act. The meeting includes a public comment period limited to five minutes per speaker, and will be live-streamed on the city's YouTube channel.

• Resolution 50-01-2023 to hold closed session regarding the Chief Financial Officer position
• Public comment limited to 5 minutes per speaker, in-person only
• Meeting held in-person at 643 Washington Street, Cape May, NJ 08204
• Live stream available via city website and YouTube

Boards & Commissions

The Cape May Planning Board is holding its annual reorganization meeting, including oaths of office, election of chairperson and vice chairperson, and appointment of the board attorney and engineer. The board will also adopt meeting dates and designate official newspapers for public notice. No substantive applications or public hearings are listed on this agenda.

• Election of Chairperson and Vice Chairperson
• Appointment of Board Attorney and Board Engineer
• Adoption of 2023 meeting dates and times
• Designation of official newspaper(s) for public notice
• Approval of December 13, 2022 meeting minutes

The Cape May Planning Board held its annual reorganization meeting, electing William Bezaire as Chairperson and Michael Jones as Vice Chairperson, both by 8-0 votes. The board also appointed Richard King as Board Attorney and Craig Hurless as Engineer/Planner, and adopted meeting dates and official newspapers for 2023. No substantive land-use decisions were made; the board discussed future review of the 2019 Master Plan Reexamination recommendations.

• Elected William Bezaire as Chairperson (8-0)
• Elected Michael Jones as Vice Chairperson (8-0)
• Appointed Richard King as Board Attorney (9-0)
• Appointed Craig Hurless as Board Engineer/Planner (9-0)
• Appointed Conceptual Review Committee members (6-0)
• Adopted 2023 meeting dates and time (9-0)
• Designated Cape May County Herald and Press of Atlantic City as official newspapers (9-0)
• Approved minutes of December 13, 2022 (8-0)

Boards & Commissions

The Cape May Historic Preservation Commission is meeting to reorganize for 2023 and review a large list of applications for work on historic and non-contributing properties. The agenda includes resolutions for previously approved applications, old business items, and new proposals for solar panels, additions, and renovations. Public comment is open.

• Resolution #2022-52 for Marks, 821 Washington Street
• Resolution #2022-53 for Hobrow, Inc., 301 South Beach Avenue
• New business: Smith solar panels at 925 Columbia Avenue
• New business: Madison Cape May RE LLC addition at 1025-1029 Beach Avenue
• Old business: 409 Elmira LLC new 3-story mixed use building

The Historic Preservation Commission approved a slate of 40+ applications for work on contributing and non-contributing properties, and granted final or conceptual approvals for four major projects: a new mixed-use building at 409 Elmira Street, a rear addition at 1125 New York Avenue, a hotel renovation at 1033 Beach Avenue, and a combined hotel/guest house renovation at 1025-1029 Beach Avenue. The commission also reorganized for 2023, appointing Warren Coupland as Chairperson and Tom Carroll as Vice Chairperson, and approved a $150 Zoom subscription.

• Approved 40+ property applications for work like roofs, siding, windows, and HVAC (6-0)
• Granted final approval for 409 Elmira Street mixed-use building, conditional on Planning Board sign-off (6-0)
• Granted final approval for 1125 New York Avenue rear addition, conditional on wood windows and siding (6-0)
• Granted final approval for 1033 Beach Avenue hotel roof/facia work, conditional on metal roof seam modification (6-0)
• Granted conceptual approval for 1025-1029 Beach Avenue hotel renovation (non-contributing) (6-0)
• Granted conceptual approval for 1025-1029 Beach Avenue guest house (contributing), conditional on all-wood materials (6-0)
• Granted final approval for 1211 Lafayette Street addition/deck, conditional on one-over-one windows and retaining diamond sash (6-0)
• Approved $150 Zoom subscription for HPC use (6-0)

City Council Meetings

The Cape May City Council is holding a special meeting on January 5, 2023, at 4:30 PM in the City Hall auditorium. The only substantive item is a resolution to hold a closed session under New Jersey's Open Public Meetings Act to discuss the position of Chief Financial Officer. Public comments are limited to five minutes, and the meeting will be live-streamed.

• Resolution 49-01-2022 to hold a closed session regarding the Chief Financial Officer position
• Meeting held in-person at Cape May City Hall, 643 Washington Street
• Public comments limited to 5 minutes; written and phone comments no longer accepted

The City Council held a special meeting on January 5, 2023, and passed a resolution to enter closed session to discuss the position of the Chief Financial Officer under the New Jersey Open Public Meetings Act. The closed session lasted from 4:34 PM to 6:35 PM, with no official action taken. The meeting then adjourned at 6:37 PM. No public comments were heard.

• Approved resolution 49-01-2023 to enter closed session for CFO position (4-0, Meier absent)
• No official action taken during closed session
• Adjourned special meeting at 6:37 PM

City Council Meetings

This is the annual reorganization meeting where the City Council will elect a Deputy Mayor, appoint the City Solicitor and other professional services, and make numerous board and commission appointments. The council will also consider a consent agenda that includes the 2022 temporary budget, a cash management plan, and resolutions on delinquent taxes and shared services. An ordinance to update the city's salary and classification plan will be introduced, and the mayor will give the State of the City address.

• Resolution 02-01-2023 appointing Christopher Gillin-Schwartz as City Solicitor
• Resolution 44-01-2023 approving the 2022 Temporary Budget
• Resolution 43-01-2023 approving the 2022 Cash Management Plan
• Resolution 46-01-2023 fixing a 6% penalty on delinquent taxes for 2022
• Ordinance 487-2023 to update the Uniform Salary and Classification Plan