In a recent government meeting, significant concerns were raised regarding the financial implications of the county's assessment demonstration program and its impact on local taxpayers. A city official criticized the decision made in 2015 to remain in the program, arguing that it has contributed to inflated property assessments and a destabilized tax base. The official highlighted that the program partially obscures the loss of property tax revenue due to developer tax abatements, ultimately placing a heavier tax burden on residents.

The meeting also addressed the value of volunteer firefighters in the city, with a call for better support for Long Branch's volunteer fire department, drawing comparisons to Middletown's successful incentive program for its volunteers. The discussion underscored the importance of recognizing and compensating the contributions of these firefighters to community safety.

Additionally, a cease and desist notice was issued to the Monmouth County Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA) following allegations of animal cruelty. Dr. Stuart Goldman, a former chief humane law enforcement officer, criticized the SPCA for its practices, particularly regarding the euthanasia of feral cats. He urged local officials to address the perceived lack of enforcement against animal cruelty and expressed dissatisfaction with the current prosecutorial efforts in the county.

The meeting concluded with a call for accountability from local government officials, emphasizing the need for transparency and effective governance in addressing these pressing community issues.