City Administrator Seals Bargaining Agreement; Army’s Proposed Dune Line Under Review

NORTH WILDWOOD ─ City Council and a handful of residents gathered Dec. 20 for the last meeting of 2016. Although the meeting was brief, and Mayor Patrick Rosenello absent, several matters of importance composed the agenda and were explained by city Administrator Kevin Yecco. 
Before the meeting began, Ron Simone, administrative assistant, confirmed that the governing body had received the proposed “30 percent plan” from the Army Corps of Engineers.
The dune-line project will stretch the length of the Wildwoods, including all three municipalities facing the Atlantic.
Comments from Mayor Ernie Troiano of Wildwood and Mayor Carl Groon of Wildwood Crest range from “needing adjustment” to deeper concerns concerning private properties and the water line.
Under resolutions, “designating date and time of 2017 reorganization meeting” was approved by the council.
According to City Clerk Scott Jett, the first meeting of 2017 will occur Jan. 3 at 5 p.m. heralding a new year for the leadership of the city.
The “execution of collective bargaining agreement” with Fireman’s Mutual Benevolent Association (FMBA) Local 56 was also authorized by the council and, as explained by Yecco, will provide both North Wildwood and firefighters with the best possible terms.
“They understand the complexities in North Wildwood and the state,” said Yecco. According to Yecco, the city could not “go above the 3 percent cap,” and certain reductions were made.
Yecco also explained the “emergency contract” for the maintenance and repair of the city’s high-water vehicle due to damage inflicted during and after Winter Storm Jonas.
“Jonas made the repairs necessary,” Yecco said and added that a “standing contract” was already in place with the individual mentioned in the emergency contract.
During council comment, Councilwoman Kellyann Tolomeo wished everyone a “Happy Holiday,” and her sentiments were echoed by other council members.
Regarding the recent children’s Christmas party, Councilman David Del Conte remarked on Simone’s baked goods: “Ron’s brownies were the best on the table.”
Councilwoman Margaret “Peggy” Bishop summed up the governing body’s wish for everyone in North Wildwood to have “a happy and healthy new year.”
To contact Rachel Rogish, email rrogish@cmcherald.com.