Borough Prepares for Revaluation; ‘Zombie’ Site Evokes Neighbor’s Ire

WEST WILDWOOD – On the cusp of the Fourth of July holiday, a handful of borough residents and commissioners gathered June 30 at 9 a.m.; in place of a July meeting, the borough holds a second meeting in June before the holiday weekend, explained Mayor Christopher Fox. 
After approval of the minutes, a proclamation was presented to two “young gentlemen” who had opened a new eatery in the borough. Although the two were absent, Fox praised them for their enterprise: “They took a chance in West Wildwood,” Fox said. “The Crow’s Nest” is open on Q Avenue, according to Fox.
Eight resolutions went before the commissioners, including the appointment of a deputy and alternate registrars and the renewal of two liquor licenses.
The “issuance of a fire safety permit for fireworks display July 23” was approved along with renewing a “dental benefit contract with Delta Dental” for borough employees.
A professional contract was awarded to Vital Communications to “perform a full borough-wide property revaluation as ordered by the Cape May County Board of Taxation.”
 Mayor and commissioners also authorized “the execution of an agreement” for a special project engineer.
During the commissioners’ reports, Fox reminded residents of the Family Festival July 23 and the borough’s decorating contest for “Christmas in July.”
In a past meeting, Fox wished West Wildwood would gain recognition for “something good” other than natural disasters. The festival will begin at 1 p.m. to allow for “more time.” “I quite enjoy it,” Fox said, referring to decorating his home in the festive theme.
Resident Bill Martin asked commissioners what was being done concerning the “zombie property” across from his residence.
“I think we have made progress,” Borough Administrator Chris Ridings said, although he referred to the progress as “baby steps.”
According to Ridings, Borough Solicitor Andrew Cafiero did contact the bank’s solicitor.
Ridings and Martin confirmed that four individual contractors had visited the property. “They haven’t done anything,” said Martin.
Martin continued that the bulkhead on the property is in danger and asked if force could be exercised by the borough for its repair.
“There is no way,” Fox replied, explaining that the borough could not force the issue.
However, according to Borough Clerk Donna Frederick, the bank is “liable for fines” which are approximately $95,000 due to the lack of upkeep. “We feel for you,” Fox said. “It’s awful.” Fox also promised continued support for Martin as a solution is reached.
Another resident presented concerns about the pump located at the intersection of Pine and Neptune avenues.
According to Commissioner Scott Golden, the pump is “100 percent operational” but promised to look into the drainage for a possible issue. The board also heard concerns about a residence that was recently damaged in a fire. Described as an “attraction nuisance,” the property will be looked into for everyone’s safety.
To contact Rachel Rogish, email rrogish@cmcherald.com.