Public Statements Appreciated By Borough’s Mayor

WEST WILDWOOD ─ “I don’t comment on anything that man says,” said Mayor Christopher Fox during public comment at the Aug. 5 commissioners’ meeting.
Borough officials and residents met at 7 p.m. to share in the affairs affecting the community, leading to Bill Martin’s question concerning allegations made by former Mayor Herbert Frederick in a letter to the editor published in the July 27 Herald. 
Frederick claimed Fox’s response to a ‘zombie property’ at the June 30 commissioners’ meeting was “too quick and not correct.”
Fox replied that the claims made were “ludicrous” and added that he has “lost every bit of respect” for the former mayor.
Described as a “disgrace,” the allegations made have circulated throughout West Wildwood.
Fox, who says he “respects a lot of people,” commended borough residents, Martin specifically, who attend and “say their piece” in a public forum. Though commissioners and residents may not always agree, Fox urges everyone to attend and be heard.
The meeting began with a notification from the state Department of Environmental Protection “granting a modification to coastal permit of Donald Martin, 668 W. 26 St. (sic) – from a duplex to a single-family dwelling.”
Under resolutions, commissioners authorized the “adoption of the Cape May County Multi-Jurisdictional All Hazards Mitigation Plan Update” and clarified the “shared services agreement” between West Wildwood and Wildwood Crest.
The shared services concerns the use of public works equipment and services.
Approval for “change order number three, final for 2015 Road Program” was granted. The program includes Poplar, Magnolia, and I avenues.
Borough officials also issued opposition to “seismic air-gun testing off the coast of New Jersey” and offshore drilling.
West Wildwood will also request a “grandfathering provision” to be included in national flood insurance laws to “protect homeowners whose homes are built to elevations acceptable at the time of construction or reconstruction.”
With repairs still underway after Winter Storm Jonas, many residents are still dealing with insurance and personal reconstruction to homes.
During reports from commissioners, Maureen Smith, president of the Ladies’ Auxiliary, thanked participants in the July Family Festival.
“It was extremely hot,” Smith said, acknowledging the high temperatures, but also commending members who still participated. “We met nice people,” Smith continued, adding that meeting new people “is the answer” to community spirit. A “meet and greet” will be held at the firehouse Aug. 13, hosted by the fire department and its Ladies’ Auxiliary. Smith thanked commissioners and fellow residents for their perpetual support.
In his report, Fox said “Christmas in July went very well” and has laid a good foundation for next year’s celebration. According to Fox, many residents participated in the decorating competition. 
Fox commended auxiliary members and community as a whole for their efforts: “your support means the world,” Fox said.
Another resident asked the board what can be done with a damaged bulkhead on an adjacent property. “It’s private property,” Fox replied. “We’re not allowed to do it.” 
According to Fox and fellow commissioners, every “angle” has been checked. The borough engineer suggested that “you (commissioners) may want to keep an eye out” on a study being conducted in Atlantic City on bulkheads. “Just listen to what they’re saying,” he said.
To contact Rachel Rogish, email rrogish@cmcherald.com.