Flooding, ‘Nuisance Wildlife’ Dominate Sept. 27 Meeting of Sea Isle City Council

SEA ISLE CITY – This municipality’s City Council met Sept. 27. The perennial issue of island flooding took up much of the members’ discussion. 
To prepare for the October capital plan workshop Council member John Gibson said he wanted to make a major recommendation that all could consider moving forward.
“If we are to survive as an island, and realizing the ocean is rising and other global warming effects, we need to look at where Sea Isle will be in 2050.
“Last week we had a normal rainstorm, really was minor, and yet there was extensive flooding along Central Avenue between 30th and 50th streets and along our major thoroughfare Landis Avenue,” began Gibson.
“Pleasure Avenue was still open, but I believe we need another second artery that will withstand flooding, so I’m suggesting that we create a ‘Park-Central extension.’ This would require that we take some of the saltwater meadows. I estimate the length around 500 feet, which is at grade level, and pave it along the area where Park comes in behind the library, and then link that to 50th or 51st Street since both of these were dry.
“Of course, we will need environmental permits, but we have a good case to make because of traffic and mobility concerns, and we should develop facts and figures now on this issue,” he concluded.
Council member Frank Edwardi said, “I’ve had conversations with others, for example, from Avalon, and they are really investing in pump stations where floodwater is pumped into the meadows. I know we’ve got a few such stations, and it’s very expensive, but I think we need more.”
Council member John Divney pointed out that the resort has a comprehensive flood plan as put together by the Planning Board. “The plan covers where flooding occurs, where drainage is existing and where it’s needed, the causes, who are the responsible parties, solutions and how to educate citizens and especially residents about flooding concerns,” explained Divney. “So let’s take this idea and fold it into upcoming discussions on the issue.”
Public Comment
During the public portion, Linda Gentile, of Upper Township, representing Shore Animal Control, talked about the handling of  “nuisance” wildlife including skunks, raccoons, and feral cats.
“I’d like to ask council where these animals are going once they are picked up by Sea Isle City animal control. Per state law, they are not to be put off-island by animal control or otherwise disposed of. And per your contract with the New Jersey Nature Center, it seems that’s what you’re doing. Only the municipal pest control officer has that authority, and I’ve learned that DEP (Department of Environmental Protection) is looking into the matter,” stated Gentile.
Business Administrator George Savastano replied, “Our animal control officer falls under the supervision of the police department. I’ll get in touch with them and see how we are in compliance.”
During a follow-up citizen comment, a resident said he’d been the “victim” of skunk invasion of his property so would be interested in learning what is allowed and how those animals are being properly handled.
To contact Camille Sailer, email csailer@cmcherald.com.