‘Litter-Free Zone’ Signs on ‘Guard Stands? City Considers Business Owner’s Offer

WILDWOOD ─ City commissioners learned of Tony Visalli’s plan for reducing beach litter April 26. At the same time, it could offer advertising opportunities for the city and businesses. Visalli is owner of Island Ice-Cream Company.
According to Commissioner Peter Byron, Visalli presented the idea in 2016; however, due to time and the waning summer, no action was taken. Once again the commission discussed Visalli’s offer.
“I’m not against the idea,” said Byron. He explained that Visalli wished to pay for the “litter-free zone” signs, at no cost to the city. The signs would be posted on the back of the lifeguard stands along Wildwood’s beaches.
Mayor Ernie Troiano concurred with Byron, suggesting the signs be made in “multiple languages” concerning littering.
Troiano commented on how many take advantage of free beaches by leaving their trash.
The possibility of businesses placing a sign on lifeguard stands was also discussed. Troiano suggested that the “cost of a permit” offset the cost of a sign itself, and then consulted Solicitor Mary Bittner.
“I will look into it,” said Bittner, adding that each sign may be passed by resolution. Further details will be presented at the May 10 commissioners’ meeting.
Engineer’s Report
City Engineer Marc DeBlasio reported on the long-awaited infrastructure project for Pacific Avenue. Residents and business owners along Pacific Avenue have asked commissioners for assistance because of flooding concerns.
According to residents, drainage problems allow water to stand in the street after storms and even high tides.
Recently, the city obtained a grant for over $12 million for Pacific Avenue. DeBlasio met with the state Department of Environmental Protection and members of the sewer utility regarding the damaged beach outfall lines.
After a question from Commissioner Anthony Leonetti, DeBlasio told the commissioners to expect “shovels in the ground” by September 2018. 
“Do you expect a long approval process?” Troiano inquired.
DeBlasio replied that the approval process might take up to four months, but as water and sewer lines are incorporated into repairing the outfall lines, the process may take longer. “We’re not even in design yet,” said DeBlasio.
“I have to get relief to the people down there,” said Troiano. According to Troiano, the city will look into “expediting” the project.
To contact Rachel Rogish, email rrogish@cmcherald.com.