Hope of Being Media Darling Not only after Storms, Floods

WEST WILDWOOD ─ Borough residents and commissioners met May 6 as forecasts of inclement weather loomed along with concerns for high tide levels and flooding.
Although the meeting was brief, Mayor Christopher Fox and commissioners explained steps being taken to reduce standing water in streets. 
Plans to attract media attention to the borough also took center stage during public comment. As the borough continues to move forward after the effects of Winter Storm Jonas, residents and commissioners seek to work together and look forward to summer prospects.
An ordinance was passed on first reading, to “amend the current land use ordinance and related building code.” As explained by Municipal Clerk Donna Frederick, the amendment would allow the borough to extend an outside fence from five to six feet.
Under resolutions, commissioners designated the “first full week in May as Coast Guard Community Week in Cape May County.” They also authorized the borough to “utilize competitive contracting…for the procurement of information technology support services.”
A refund of mercantile license fees for Yellow Cab and Seabreeze Cab company was authorized.
During reports, Fox remarked on the seemingly “high” number of police calls during the month of April. Fox said “Police checks save a lot of burglaries” from being inflicted on borough residents.
“I will always support that,” Fox added. “I don’t care what people say.” According to Fox, some individuals have expressed displeasure at the number of residential police checks. However, a few residents present thanked commissioners for the police checks and for keeping watch over the community.
Maureen Smith, president of the Ladies’ Auxiliary, gave an update on the “hoagie sale fundraiser” for the fire department. “The hoagie sale is going fantastic,” Smith announced. Smith thanked those who have bought tickets to purchase hoagies and commented on the “phenomenal outpouring of support” from community members.
Commissioner Cornelius Maxwell thanked Smith and auxiliary members for continued support of the fire department.
Commissioner Scott Golden, public works, remarked on the bathroom facility being completed at Borough Hall (after being destroyed after Winter Storm Jonas) and on repairing the beach access.
Fox concluded reports by announcing continued work on reducing standing water. According to Fox, he already met with an engineer to discuss the problem and its solution. “It will cost money,” Fox said but is determined to reduce flooding and pointed out the long-term benefits. Plans for a “Christmas in July” celebration July 23 are underway.
Fox wishes the borough would receive “media attention for something good,” not only natural disasters.
A committee is being formed to organize the event. “Tell your neighbors,” Fox urged residents. “We are a community that sticks together.”
To contact Rachel Rogish, email rrogish@cmcherald.com.