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Beach Haven approves ordinance tightening rules on private dune walkovers amid strong public comment
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Summary
After extended public comment and scientific objections, Beach Haven council voted to amend borough code regulating private dune walkovers, grandfathering 21 existing permits and keeping an on‑time $100 inspection fee; one councilor voted against the ordinance.
Mayor Lambert read a timeline of the borough’s efforts to regulate private dune walkovers and presented Ordinance 2025‑26c for a second reading, saying the change tightens walkover rules to protect dunes while allowing limited, grandfathered use by existing permit holders.
The ordinance amends chapter 57 of the borough code to repeal and replace sections governing private dune walkovers, Mayor Lambert said, noting discussions began in November 2024 and that "currently, there are 21 active permits and approximately 80 oceanfront homes." He described the $100 fee as an annual inspection charge and said the borough would revoke permits for significant infractions.
During the public comment period, supporters and opponents spoke. Fran Miletsky of South Beach Avenue thanked the council for clarifying the timeline and called the ordinance a meaningful compromise that protects dunes while recognizing long‑time homeowners’ stewardship. "We do this every year," Miletsky said of planting dune grass, noting neighbors’ volunteer efforts.
Opponents included Laura Simon, who identified herself as a wildlife ecologist and said private crossovers damage dunes and are unnecessary because public crossovers exist at street ends. "These private crossovers make absolutely no sense," Simon said, urging the council to prioritize dune restoration over private access.
Other commenters raised questions about the fee and the permanence of permit revocation for missed deadlines. Murray Robertson asked whether late fees and revocations were fair; council members and staff said the $100 is the on‑time permit fee that covers a DPW inspection, and that a late penalty can rise to $400. Councilors also described a grandfathering window (an April 1 on‑time deadline with a quarter‑year grandfather period to July 1) and encouraged residents to contact staff in hardship cases.
Council debate emphasized enforcement and monitoring: council members said public works and the borough engineer will inspect and monitor the grandfathered walkovers and that permits could be revoked if walkovers materially harm dunes. Councilor Baumiller reiterated opposition and said she had supported repeal on earlier readings. The ordinance passed by roll call with a majority in favor and one councilor, Baumiller, voting no.
Mayor Lambert said the council views the ordinance as a compromise that can be revisited if it fails to protect dune health, and urged residents to continue dune‑restoration work and to use borough channels for questions and appeals.
