Council Will Seek Public Sentiment On Reverting to City’s Original Name

NORTH WILDWOOD ─ “A lot has happened in two weeks,” said resident Ed Wheaton at the Aug. 2 City Council meeting.
Convened at 10 a.m. instead of the usual 5 p.m. due to National Night Out, the meeting was brought to order as the council, and residents gathered to hear and discuss the fate of a ponderous question: possibly changing North Wildwood’s name to its original, Anglesea. 
Wheaton, who presented a petition with over 100 signatures July 19, said the question sparked “a lot of good comments” throughout the Wildwoods. “It really snowballed,” Wheaton said.
Though the November ballot will pose the name-change question, Mayor Patrick Rosenello explained that the question would provide “invaluable feedback” as the “will of the voters” is explored.
“We’ve been North Wildwood for over 110 years,” said Rosenello, and assured that nothing would be “rushed.”
The meeting began with a moment of silence for resident Bob Starr, a former councilman, lifeguard, and employee who worked at a local dock and recently died.
After receiving and filing communications, council approved Rosenello’s one appointment to the fire department.
One ordinance went before the council concerning “Authorizing Lease of Real Property for Construction Staging Area.”
According to City Clerk Scott Jett, the ordinance allows a property on West 26th Avenue to be used as a staging area for various construction projects. The property belongs to Councilman James Kane.
Under resolutions, revisions “to personnel and procedures” manual were adopted by council. According to Jett, the revisions adopted provide for the donated leave program already approved by the state.
The fourth resolution issued a request to County Clerk Rita Fulginiti to “place a non-binding question on general election ballot” Nov. 8.
Changing the city’s name from North Wildwood to Anglesea will be posed as a “question” in a non-binding capacity.
As explained by Rosenello, City Solicitor William Kaufmann has researched the legalities while Jett has called several municipalities throughout the state who have recently changed names.
Rosenello also explained that the purpose of the “non-binding question” would allow the council to garner public opinion.
If the referendum were binding, the council would be obligated by law to change North Wildwood’s name regardless of the number of votes.
Rosenello says the “invaluable feedback” will enable the council to “proceed in a more educated way.”
Wheaton concurred with council’s decision, saying it will give residents a chance “to get used to the idea.”
When asked what the name Anglesea signifies, Wheaton said it brings to mind a village atmosphere and sense of identity.
According to Wheaton, the potential name change could spark more discussions of possible name changes in Cape May County.
To contact Rachel Rogish, email rrogish@cmcherald.com.