NORTH WILDWOOD ─ “There is no change,” said Mayor Patrick Rosenello when asked if the city’s intentions have changed for the property on which stands Marina Bay Towers.
The March 1 meeting highlighted several key changes and issues in the city, including repeal of an ordinance that designated Essex County as the “redevelopment entity.” According to Rosenello, North Wildwood still stands for Marina Bay Towers being senior citizen housing; along with the present structure, a marina and restaurant would also serve its residents and guests.
The meeting began with approval and filing four special events applications: Greek Independence Day celebration March 19, Ocean Drive Marathon March 20, Ed’s Funcade Easter Egg Hunt March 27, and the Easter Son-Rise Service also March 27.
Under ordinances, Essex County as the “redevelopment entity” for Marina Bay was repealed. When asked why the ordinance was repealed, Rosenello explained officials’ “responsibilities are done,” as per their intent. “We are formalizing the severance,” said Rosenello.
Three or four cases are still pending in the Appellate Court and in the state Supreme Court. Hearings have taken place, but no decision has been reached, according to Solicitor William Kaufmann.
According to a 2015 press release, Marina Bay suffered “multi-million dollar damage” after Superstorm Sandy. After waters receded, approximately 95 percent of the apartment units, roof, and exterior walls rendered many of the units as “uninhabitable.”
According to the release, the insurance carrier has not fully compensated the claim. Filing a lawsuit against the carrier was still pending as of March 10, 2015.
Recent damage, inflicted by Winter Storm Jonas, further impacted the building.
Bonnie McNamara, a Towers resident, has spoken out on conditions there and had to be evacuated during Jonas along with other residents.
The second ordinance introduced an increase in “ambulance and rescue service fees.” City administrator Kevin Yecco announced that the rate is similar to Wildwood Crest and Wildwood “in all respects.” The fee is increased to $650.
Under resolutions, advertising for public bid for Americans with Disabilities Act “access improvements” at Allen Park was approved along with engineering services for those improvements.
North Wildwood will participate in the LESO Program “for acquisition of surplus equipment.” According to City Clerk Scott Jett, North Wildwood Police Department may obtain equipment “at little or no cost.”
Council meetings on the first Tuesday of each month will commence at 5 p.m. instead of 7 p.m. The second monthly meeting will still be held at 10 a.m.
During council comment, Rosenello commented on the city’s recently completed property reassessment program. Conducted “in-house,” Rosenello said “we have completed our assessment.”
The reassessment, ordered by Cape May County Board of Taxation and the state, should not result in any “drastic changes” as stated Jan. 19.
Rosenello urged residents to call the tax assessor’s office with any questions they may have.
To contact Rachel Rogish, email rrogish@cmcherald.com.
Cape May – Governor Murphy says he doesn't know anything about the drones and doesn't know what they are doing but he does know that they are not dangerous. Does anyone feel better now?
