Middle OKs Townhome Sewer Plan, Opposes Offshore Oil Drilling

COURT HOUSE – At Middle Township Committee’s March 2 meeting, the proposed development of a townhome community adjacent to Laguna Oaks Golf Course got the necessary municipal approval for its application to the state Department of Environmental Protection.
In December, developer Frederick Langford gained approval from the Middle Township Planning Board for his site plan for the 45-townhome community on Bayberry Drive.
The committee’s resolution authorized Mayor Timothy Donohue to sign the Treatment Works Application for “The Fairways” project. Langford is required to petition the state for what amounts to a type of construction permit for his proposed water treatment plant’s design.
Donohue’s signature means that he is attesting to the fact that the municipality consents to the application and that the project conforms to requirements in all township ordinances.
Seek Grants for Bidwell Jetty, Dunes
The committee also authorized two grant applications totaling $3.5 million for improvements to the Reeds Beach/Bidwell Jetty area of the township. The first is a grant application to the county for $350,000 from the Open Space Program to improve the waterfront recreation area. The second application is to NJDEP for $3.2 million to restore the beach/dune system.
Oppose Oil Drilling Offshore
A resolution expressing opposition to the Department of the Interior’s inclusion of the Atlantic Ocean in its five-year program for outer continental shelf oil and gas leasing was approved. The proposed federal program, which would establish a schedule of oil and gas leasing sales in the Outer Continental Shelf (OCS), is in its 60-day public comment period. Both Democratic and Republican members of the state’s congressional delegation have come out in opposition to the planned inclusion of the Atlantic planning area in the five year program draft.
Opposition to the program has made allies of Sen. Cory Booker (D-NJ) and U.S. Rep. Frank LoBiondo (R-2nd). Much of the opposition cites the importance of the state’s tourism industry and the unacceptable risks associated with oil spills, especially in an area where major hurricanes can be a concern.
At least one resident challenged the committee on its opposition to a program that will grow the economy and produce jobs. Committee made clear that its task is to protect the best interests of the township and that best interest is not well served by off-shore drilling. “This is a tourist economy” heavily dependent on the beaches, Donohue said.
The federal government’s long review process, of which this period of public comment is a part, may result in significant changes to the proposed plan.
To contact Vince Conti, email vconti@cmcherald.com.