OCEAN CITY, NJ — The Ocean City Council approved a nearly $11 million bond ordinance that would appropriate funds towards various improvements throughout the city.

The bulk of the funding is for improvements to beachfront areas, dredging, reconstruction of boardwalk areas and improvement of public buildings and facilities. Read More: Nearly $11 Million Set For Various Ocean City Improvements

Among the improvements was installing artificial turf at Tennessee Avenue, which some residents disagreed with. Those in favor praised it for being better for athletes, while others were worried about its potential impacts.

Donna Moore, an environmental advocate, voiced concerns about chemicals used in the turf and its impact on people and the environment.

"It's great that maybe it helps players play a better game," Moore said. "But what did people do before plastic surfaces? You know, they played with what they had."

Rick Bernardini, chairman of the Environmental Commission, asked for a referendum for the public to determine their beliefs about the turf. He voiced concerns about microplastics and the impact on the wetlands.

Others spoke out in support of the turf.

"I think it's a tremendous idea," said Kevin Smith, head football coach at Ocean City High School.

Lesley Graham, coach for girl's lacrosse in Ocean City, said that her players prefer to play on turf.

Councilman Bob Barr said that while he respected everyone's opinions, he had done some of his own research and talked to people, and found that people were in favor of the turf.

"At the end of the day, the various people who are going to be using these fields for the activities and participating in them want these things," Barr said.

Other council members agreed that the turf would benefit Ocean City and that most people wanted it. The resolution was unanimously passed.

Get more local news delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up for free Patch newsletters and alerts.