BRIGANTINE — The City Council introduced two bond ordinances totaling over $24 million for the state-mandated replacement of lead and galvanized pipes, as well as other improvements, including a new irrigation system at the Brigantine Golf Links.
“So the two main purposes of this – one is just pavements to our utility system and two, the replacements that are being mandated by the state of New Jersey. This will help us to start that process,” said Mayor Vince Sera during the introduction of the ordinance on Wednesday.
A second reading and public hearing for the ordinances will be held at 5 p.m. Aug. 7 at city hall, 1417 West Brigantine Ave.
One of the proposed ordinances calls for the bonding of $8.9 million for lead pipe replacement around the city.
Gov. Phil Murphy signed the legislation in 2021 that mandated the replacement of all lead and galvanized pipes. The goal was to prevent potential lead poisoning along with other hazards that stem from galvanized piping in municipal, private and publicly traded water systems.
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There are a total of 2.4 million service lines across 582 water systems in the state that need to be replaced, according to a report from the state Office of Legislative Services.
All municipalities must complete the project by 2031.
The second ordinance calls for the bonding of $17.2 million in funds for various projects including over $8 million for a new irrigation system for the golf course.
Additionally over $3.4 million will go towards repaving 38th Street and Roosevelt Boulevard, the city’s beach parking lots, and improving storm drainage system throughout the island.
“One of the biggest things we’re doing is we’re reinvesting back into the city. This is done through improving our city, our buildings, our grounds, our recreational grounds and facilities,” said Sera. “A big part of this too is our beach parking lots. We’re looking at repaving all our beach parking lots, reinvesting back into the amenities so that we can start putting back into this island.”