SEASIDE HEIGHTS – All was relatively quiet on the barrier island this weekend aside from a few juvenile linked minor disturbances and the usual public intoxciation and bar related service calls for police.
On Memorial Day weekend, three people were stabbed and more than 70 individuals were taken into custody, prompting heightened concern from borough officials and residents. This past weekend’s limited police activity marked a noticeable shift in tone.
The contrast comes as Seaside Heights officials began discussions on how to better control large and disruptive crowds during peak tourism periods.
The borough is considering several measures, including banning backpacks on the boardwalk, implementing early boardwalk closures during holiday weekends, and levying stricter penalties on rental property owners whose tenants frequently violate local laws.
The proposed changes aim to curb escalating issues that have arisen in recent years with large crowds drawn to the beachfront town, particularly on holiday weekends. Officials are focusing not only on juvenile activity but also the responsibility of property owners who rent to repeat offenders.
Any changes would require approval from the borough council.
There was no confirmation on whether any specific arrests were made related to the juvenile disturbances this past weekend, and no injuries were reported.
Officials are expected to revisit the proposed enforcement strategies at an upcoming borough council meeting.