Crest Authorizes OPRA Settlement; School Superintendent Lauds Support

WILDWOOD CREST ─  Although the Borough Commissioners March 8 meeting was brief, several matters came before them, including words of praise for the municipality’s “support” for students at Crest Memorial Elementary School. 
Under ordinances, one on the official seals and other intellectual property was presented.
With no public comment or question, “Chapter 87” was adopted. Four variations of the borough seal will be used accordingly as deemed appropriate along with a variation of the Crest logo.
According to the ordinance, “prior to any person using or displaying the borough intellectual property…must submit an application to the Borough Clerk for approval by the governing body.”
Each approval or denial by the commission will be by resolution.
Violation or “unauthorized use of the borough intellectual property” is punishable by fine, possible imprisonment, and/or community service. Enforcement of the code falls to the police department.
As resolutions were presented, a settlement agreement was authorized in payment “in the matter of Richard Rivera and Gwenda R. Davis vs. Borough of Wildwood Crest.”
According to borough Solicitor Doreen Corino, the matter referred to an OPRA (Open Public Records Act) request by the individuals regarding the use of “excessive force” by borough police.
“We received a civil complaint,” said Corino. In compliance with the direction given by the Cape May County Prosecutor’s Office, copies of the report were given, and the borough will pay the fee in obtaining the report.
Public Comment
Superintendent David Del Conte, of Crest Memorial Elementary School, praised the commissioners for the borough’s support of the students during the recent Allen Tournament.
Del Conte, who has served in several schools in Cape May County, said, “this is the highest support we’ve ever had.” He also thanked the Wildwood Crest Police Department for keeping students safe at home and on field trips.
“It’s (Allen Tournament) a wonderful event,” Mayor Carl Groon replied and thanked Del Conte for his words.
Under old business, Groon reported that he is awaiting word from the Army Corps of Engineers regarding the dune-line placement in the Crest and that the kayak launch is being discussed.
To contact Rachel Rogish, email rrogish@cmcherald.com.