Borough introduces ordinance on film production permits
By JF Grodeska
ATLANTIC HIGHLANDS – The Jersey Shore is a welcoming location for film and television productions and many would like to keep Atlantic Highlands in the mix. But a proposed high-cost permit fee for filming in the borough could turn Hollywood away.
The council has been discussing film permits for movie and television production in the borough for some time. During the council meeting’s open forum May 11, filmmaker Kevin Smith, owner of Smodcastle – formerly Atlantic Cinema since 1921 – addressed the council regarding the suggested $500 per day film permit fee. Smith explained that most local towns and even major cities across the country have low or no film permit fees. He stressed that Atlantic Highlands is a beautiful location for movies and television and, with Netflix opening a studio at Fort Monmouth, Atlantic Highlands would drive away production companies that could have a positive impact on borough businesses.
The ordinance was introduced and will be on the agenda at the next council meeting.
The council also held an executive session behind closed doors due to nondisclosure agreements regarding potential land acquisition and school regionalization among Atlantic Highlands, Highlands and Sea Bright. There will be a special mayor and council meeting on the proposed regionalization at 7 p.m. May 18 at the Hesse Parish Center at 55 South Ave., Atlantic Highlands. The meeting and presentation are open to the public.
Employee Of The Month
Kristen Powell has served as the records clerk for the Atlantic Highlands Police Department (AHPD) since August 2018. She has worked under three chiefs, including Gerry Vasto, Dave Rossbach and current Chief Scott Reinert. Powell is involved in almost every administrative facet of the department and is a determining factor in the department’s efficiency. The officers and administration of the AHPD said they see her as their right hand and a great representation of the department to the community.
Fire Department
James Phillips, a volunteer fireman and public works director, gave a thorough and impassioned presentation regarding the state of the fire department’s equipment. The department has been a 100% volunteer service since 1882, providing 24/7 protection to the community. The department responds to, on average, 200 calls per year. Phillips explained to the council and residents that the average age of the borough’s firefighting equipment is 31 years. He detailed the reasons the department should acquire a new primary response unit (fire truck) and take two other vehicles out of service. Unfortunately, there is a backlog of orders and manufacturers are having difficulty finding parts to build new vehicles, pushing the timeline to completion for each fire truck to a minimum of three years. The department has met with 14 manufacturers for quotes.
Proclamations
The council put forth a proclamation to commemorate May 15 as Peace Officers Memorial Day and the week that follows as the 61st anniversary of National Police Week, recognizing those law enforcement officers who have lost their lives in the line of duty for the safety and protection of others. In addition, the council officially commemorated the week of May 6 through 12 as National Nurse’s Week, recognizing nurses’ impact on the health care system.
Upcoming Programs
At 7 p.m. May 24, the AHPD will host a free presentation outlining some of the programs available to the community. Programs range from teaching children how to ride a bike safely to preventing car theft and many more topics.
The Cannabis Committee will have an information session, date and time to be determined.
The Schooner AJ Meerwald, New Jersey’s official Tall Ship, will be returning to the Atlantic Highlands Municipal Harbor with tentative dates from June 28 to July 26. Tickets will be available soon via the Atlantic Highlands Facebook page or the borough website.
Job Opportunity
The Atlantic Highlands Harbor is seeking responsible individuals to supplement the harbor security and customer service staff on all shifts. The operation provides 24/7 coverage and help is needed on all shifts, including weekends. Applicants must possess good customer relations skills, a valid driver’s license and basic computer skills. The borough hires on an as needed, rolling basis. Visit ahnj.com to print an employment application which can be dropped off at Borough Hall or mailed to Robert Ferragina, Borough Administrator, 100 First Ave., Atlantic Highlands, NJ 07716.
The article originally appeared in the May 18 – 24, 2023 print edition of The Two River Times.
