Dogs Allowed on Beach for Evening Walks; Borough Oks Bonds, Guarded Beaches

STONE HARBOR – In a meeting that lasted about 30 minutes May 6, Borough Council approved three ordinances on the agenda for final reading and also passed a number of resolutions. Council business was dispatched quickly, evoking no controversy or comment from the public concerning the agenda items.
Walking with Pooch
Dogs and their owners received permission to use the beach for their evening walk as long as they do so between 80th and 122nd streets between 7 p.m. and sunset. Dogs must be on a leash at all times. The resolution extends from June 1 to Sept. 30.
Bond Refunding
Council passed a bond ordinance for $5.3 million. The purpose of the bond was to pay $3.3 million in aggregated principal on general bonds issued in 2006 and $1.5 million on water and sewer bonds, also from 2006, along with interest payable and a redemption premium.
Council also approved the issuance of $133,000 in bonds to cover upgrades to recreational facilities including “the acquisition and installation of new fencing and playground equipment.” The estimated cost of the project is $140,000, which includes a $7,000 down payment.
Protected Beaches
A sign that summer is quickly approaching was council’s action designating protected bathing beaches for 2015. The beaches are located at 81st, 83rd, 86th, 87th, 90th, 93rd, 94th, 95th, 96th, 100th, 102nd, 103rd, 105th, 108th, 110th, 112th, 113th, 116th, 117th, 120th, and 122nd streets.
The use of surf boards (with leashes attached, will be permitted only at 81st and 110th streets. 81st Street is the only location where stand up paddleboards, again with leashes attached, will be allowed. Kayaks will be permitted at 122nd through 126th streets. Life jackets must be worn at all times while in the water.
Local TV Access
Council also renewed the existing shared services agreement with the Borough of Avalon and Sea Isle City for utilizing the Comcast local access channel for a period of one year. The existing agreement has been in place since 2009.
In other business:
Council authorized an attendant at the skate park and set fees for daily ($2), weekly ($5) and season ($20) use of the facility at the recreation field.
To contact Vince Conti, email vconti@cmcherald.com.