DIAMOND BEACH ─ “If you spent the winter in Florida, you missed a very interesting off-season,” began North Wildwood Mayor Patrick Rosenello, opening speaker of the State of the Cities luncheon hosted by Greater Wildwood Chamber of Commerce.
Held April 13 at Coastal Blue Oceanside Bar and Grill, the luncheon featured four mayors who represent the four municipalities of the Wildwoods. Together with local leaders, those in attendance created a tapestry of ideas, backgrounds, and occupations all mingling to achieve, in Rosenello’s words, “maximum potential” for their communities as the Wildwoods continue to “work together.”
North Wildwood
After the welcome and Jacqueline Fiore, commerce board president, introduced the speakers, Rosenello gave his report on North Wildwood. Rosenello described how Winter Storm Jonas taught North Wildwood and other coastal communities not to merely “listen to the forecast.”
Rosenello commented on the extensive clean-up efforts and on “paying attention” to weather. “Some people have called me crazy,” Rosenello added with a smile, referring to Gov. Chris Christie’s remark while campaigning in New Hampshire. “All kidding aside,” Rosenello thanked fellow mayors Ernie Troiano, Wildwood, Carl Groon, Wildwood Crest, and Christopher Fox, West Wildwood, for help during Jonas and its aftermath.
Another point he mentioned was a “country-wide” issue: rising prices in property taxes and living expenses. Rosenello said conditions for families seeking to live on a barrier island are “not easy.”
“This is a major issue,” said Rosenello. With fewer families living full-time in an island community, the impact is felt in all aspects of society, including the business community. Rosenello said his “focus” is “on making North Wildwood a good place to live.”
By improving recreational facilities and plans for more improvements, Rosenello seeks to make North Wildwood a place for everyone. “Tension is not going to make this town better,” Rosenello added. Rosenello also desires to see “the Wildwoods return” and achieve “maximum potential.” According to Rosenello, North Wildwood is “heading in a positive direction.”
Wildwood
Mayor Ernie Troiano of Wildwood followed Rosenello by giving details on conditions in Wildwood and future plans. Troiano pointed out a recent article naming Wildwood as one of the top ten beaches.
“The rest of the world is figuring out what we’ve always known,” said Troiano. Troiano described Wildwood as “an interesting place to live” and an “even more interesting place to govern.”
Despite a tax increase, Troiano discussed the program to repair many streets. According to Troiano, reconstruction projects cost “a lot of money,” almost $400,000 per block if they are “done right.”
Troiano also talked through Wildwood’s bulkhead reconstruction endeavors and plans to develop 28 acres of vacant, back-bay area. “We have interested developers,” said Troiano.
By “beefing up” inspections, “reducing” the social services voucher system, and taking an “aggressive stance” on crime, Troiano is pleased with Wildwood’s progress.
Troiano’s message was: “Contribute or we will run you out.”
Troiano is looking forward to a “good summer” as bands return for concerts, including sponsors of the Chesney concerts. If the event happens, Troiano said “We will be one of the biggest stops on the East Coast.”
Wildwood Crest
Mayor Carl Groon of Wildwood Crest thanked the chamber and Rosenello. Groon proceeded to give a “review” of events in the Crest. Completing a “highly noisy and successful” New Jersey Avenue project, the Crest was able to repair the road from Jefferson to Rambler.
Groon also pointed out that taxes were not raised as a result of the project. “We know we have to address Pacific Avenue,” said Groon. Plans, yet undisclosed, for Pacific Avenue will most likely not begin until the fall of 2016.
According to Groon, a Federal Emergency Management Agency grant has been obtained for continued work at Sunset Lake. Groon also recognized Commissioner Joyce Gould for work on the municipal budget. “Our ratings are strong,” said Groon. “All because of Joyce and her department.”
West Wildwood
Mayor Christopher Fox of West Wildwood gave the final presentation. “I was the youngest mayor until Rosenello showed up!” Fox said with a laugh.
Fox explained the borough’s continued clean-up and recovery efforts from Jonas. “Jonas was a huge problem,” Fox said. “We were still recovering from Sandy.”
Fox thanked his fellow mayors and the county. “I would not have survived,” Fox added.
Although the borough faces a 1.8-cent tax rate increase, Fox spoke warmly of West Wildwood and its residents and on communities working together.
By “cleaning up crime” and using social media, Fox is pleased with progress in the borough. Once again, Fox acknowledged his fellow leaders and those who attended the luncheon.
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?
