In a recent meeting of the Long Branch City Council, Mayor and council members reaffirmed their commitment to fostering a community built on mutual trust and respect, emphasizing the importance of diversity and quality of life for all residents. The meeting began with the recitation of the Pledge of Allegiance, followed by the reading of the city council's mission statement, which highlights the administration's dedication to treating all members of the public with respect.

A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to the proclamation of July 2023 as Disability Pride Month. The council recognized the importance of this observance, which aims to celebrate the contributions of individuals with disabilities and raise awareness about the discrimination they often face. The proclamation noted that over 61 million adults and more than 300 million children in the United States live with disabilities, underscoring the need for continued advocacy and support.

The council's resolution encourages community members to take an active role in preventing discrimination against individuals with disabilities and to acknowledge their value and talents. This initiative aligns with the principles established by the Americans with Disabilities Act, which was enacted in 1990 to protect the rights of individuals with disabilities.

Following the proclamation, the council moved on to approve the minutes from the previous meeting and opened the floor for public participation. Residents were invited to share their comments and concerns, with one individual, Vincent Lepore, requesting a notification for one minute of speaking time.

The meeting concluded without any new ordinances or significant resolutions, but the discussions surrounding Disability Pride Month highlighted the council's ongoing efforts to promote inclusivity and respect within the Long Branch community.