Lifesaving Efforts Lauded by Crest

WILDWOOD CREST – “We were four people and eight hands at the right place at the right time.” 
Wildwood Crest resident John Lynch spoke for himself and fellow honorees, Firefighter Robert Murray and Zachary Ruffo, who received awards for helping save three families who were trapped in a fire March 27. 
Lynch, the designated spokesperson, noted that he felt that the real heroes were the police and volunteer firefighters who risked their lives for others.
In a brief ceremony at the April 26 Borough Commission meeting, Mayor Carl Groon lauded the three and noted that Wildwood Mayor Ernest Troiano did not feel it was appropriate for him to be present for the presentation. He thanked Troiano for his service to his community.
Lynch added that the community raised $25,000 in a six-day fundraising event for the three families who lost everything in the fire.
Groon stated that they plan to honor others who participated in the rescue at a later date.
Add Special Officers
In other action, commissioners passed a resolution to add two Class I police officers to the police department.
Gas Project Update
Based on questions from residents, Administrator Connie Mahon related that the South Jersey Gas project had essentially completed phases 1 and 2, except for some property owners who have not responded to calls and messages asking them to complete their gas hook-up.
Mahon stated that in Grid 1, there will be some road disturbance yet to come, but that there is a commitment from South Jersey Gas to complete that part by June 15. 
There will be a second reading and public hearing on an ordinance on handicapped parking at 102 Cresse Avenue May 10 at 9:30 a.m. It passed unanimously on first reading.
To contact Jim McCarty, email jmccarty@cmcherald.com.