Some year-round Belmar residents say that plans to build more condos in the town are a cause for concern.

“The project includes knocking these three houses down across the street and then building a 60-foot structure with 24 condos in it, which is double the height of the tallest building here. It’s ridiculous,” says Art Ammermuller, who lives on 12th Avenue, the proposed site for the new buildings.

The proposal from the development firm Edelman Investment Group also calls for 24 more condos in a similar size building across the street.  It would replace the old Belmar Inn.

“[Forty-eight condo units], four penthouses, 62 feet 3 inches. This is overwhelming,” says neighbor Joan Corallo.

The buildings currently standing in the location are known by locals as the “summer party houses.” The residents say that they aren’t necessarily against getting rid of these homes, but do not want a change to be twice as big as what they already have.

“We heard condos. Everybody was really happy about that, but when we got the papers and realized the scope of the development that they want, it's overwhelming,” Corallo says.

Edelman Investment Group attorney Bill Shipers says in a statement, “Edelman is more than sympathetic...but the neighbors should be thankful there are groups willing to work cooperatively to rid the block of four edifices that are a constant demand on police, first aid and health in town.”

The Belmar Zoning Board is scheduled to hold its first public hearing about the plan on May 23 at 7 p.m. at the Belmar Municipal Building.