Borough Residents Recall Storm Rescues; State Disaster Declaration Still Pending

WEST WILDWOOD ─ “The people stepped up,” said Mayor Christopher Fox during the Feb. 5 Borough Commission meeting, two weeks after the Jan. 23-24 winter storm, dubbed Jonas, swept through the borough and neighboring communities.
“These communities over the bridge stepped up,” Fox said telling residents of the aid sent by Wildwood Crest, North Wildwood, and Wildwood: trash trucks, military surplus vehicles, public works employees, and support.
County officials such as Freeholder Will Morey and Engineer Dale Foster extended support to the borough as the clean-up process continues.
When asked how long the clean-up is expected to take, Commissioner Scott Golden replied, “two months.” Borough administration, however, is hopeful for a declaration from Trenton, proclaiming West Wildwood a disaster area.
The meeting began at 7 p.m., attended by a large contingent of residents.
Two ordinances went before the mayor and commissioners: a bond ordinance for “the renovation of various bulkheads in and by the Borough of West Wildwood.” Some $60,000 has been appropriated along with the authorization of $570,000 in bonds or notes to finance the work.
Discussion of bulkheads ensued during public comment as well.
One resident remarked on a letter she had sent Fox and commissioners in 2012, suggesting that perhaps the damage may not have been as severe.
“That’s the call I made and that’s the call I stand with,” Fox replied.
Fox agreed with the resident yet was reluctant in 2012 because of tax purposes. Because of tide elevation and other factors, the bulkheads’ height must be eight and a half feet. In replacing and repairing bulkheads, Golden said “We are looking at borough property and private property.”
When and how the requirements will affect homeowners, Fox replied that if a private bulkhead is replaced, it must meet the standard and homeowners must pay. However, private bulkhead repairs are not “forced.”
Ten resolutions also came before the board, many dealt directly with the storm aftermath.
The tax assessor was authorized to “file appeals on behalf of the borough” for 2016 and the borough engineer was also authorized to “perform tax map maintenance/update services and tax map revaluation services.” The borough may now sell land no longer needed for public purposes.
A shared services agreement between the borough and Wildwood Crest went into effect; Mayor Carl Groon of the Crest will lend public works equipment and personnel “for Winter Storm Jonas clean-up.”
According to Fox, the support from Wildwood Crest “is free of charge,” but if West Wildwood is declared a disaster area, then the Crest will be reimbursed for its services.
During public comment, resident Rita Durst asked “What does it take to be declared a disaster area?” Fox explained that the state has a formula and, as insurance claims are filed, the formula must “hit the threshold” of a set amount.
Sen. Cory Booker and Lt. Gov. Kim Guadagno visited the borough to survey damage and the borough awaits a declaration from Trenton.
The Army Corps of Engineers also visited and is considering installing a possible barrier. “There is a chance,” said Golden. “We would be a prototype.” 
Residents praised the police and fire departments for the rescue efforts during Jonas.
Durst and her family, including an infant, were rescued. “I cannot thank the borough enough and the Christian ministries,” said Durst. “I will never move.”
Maureen Smith, president of the Ladies Auxiliary, also thanked borough officials and professionals. “No one realized what it would be,” Smith said.
Smith also informed residents that a “gap insurance” does exist if a new vehicle is purchased. Smith said she learned this information at Wildwood Convention Center.
Although Smith, Durst, and many others lost their first floors and utilities, Smith said “We did not lose as much as others.”
Several Christian ministries have sent volunteers to help tear out drywall and other clean-up services.
“Please continue to help one another,” said Fox before the board adjourned to go into executive session. “We will continue to do all we can to help you.” 
To contact Rachel Rogish, email rrogish@cmcherald.com.