Resident Complains, City to Respond

NORTH WILDWOOD ─ “Someone needs to take the offensive,” said resident Charles Bracket during the Oct. 4 City Council meeting. 
Bracket, along with a neighbor, informed council concerning noise and other complaints of conditions at one commercial establishment.
According to Bracket, North Wildwood police are called “constantly.” He praised police for their “prompt” response, but said that employees continue to dump glass bottles into the dumpster after the officers leave.
“Who should write citations?” Bracket asked council.
Pictures taken by a neighbor of a liquid emanating from a dumpster and into the street were also shown to council. According to Bracket, the liquid was a mixture of beer, mixed drinks, food, and other materials.
“It stinks to high heaven,” Bracket explained.
Council Action
The meeting began with approving and filing communications, including a CY2016 Best Practices Inventory with the state.
Two ordinances went before the governing body. The first, upon second reading, amends “Beach Rules and Regulations,” allowing fishermen to have dogs on the beach at the same time as their vehicles as prescribed by local law.
On first reading, an amendment will also be made to “Mercantile License Fees.” According to City Clerk Scott Jett, the amendment provides for “housekeeping.”
Under resolutions, a contract was awarded for a fire training trailer. According to Mayor Patrick Rosenello, combined grants from the U.S. Department of Agriculture and private donations will cover the cost with no expense to the city.
An agreement for “Road Stripping Services” was authorized with Middle Township. With concerns met after the previous council meeting, Middle Township will be using North Wildwood’s road stripper vehicle. According to City Administrator Kevin Yecco, Middle Township will be performing the road stripping.
Complaints
During public comment, Bracket said he was “representing” himself and fellow neighbors on his street in regards to complaints of amplification and other noises outside of an establishment.
Bracket said the Planning and Zoning Board already had a resolution concerning noise.
Bracket went on to read a portion of the resolution and said he has spoken with the establishment owners and police.
“I’ve been there for 40 years,” said Bracket, who later thanked council for its time. He wished to reach a solution.
Rosenello assured Bracket that the matter would be addressed and commended him for contacting police.
“I will ask him (the zoning officer) to look into this,” Rosenello said.
North Wildwood Police Chief Matthew Gallagher, who attended said, “This is the first time I’ve heard of this.”
Gallagher offered to speak with Bracket after the meeting to see what could be done.
“My door is always open,” Gallagher added.
To contact Rachel Rogish, email rrogish@cmcherald.com.