Wildwood Commissioners Debate Dune: ‘Work in Progress,’ Opinions Differ

WILDWOOD ─ “I’m between a rock and a hard place,” Commissioner Anthony Leonetti said during an intense debate at the Feb. 22 City Commission meeting. 
As the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) and Army Corps of Engineers progress with an island-wide dune project, the leadership of Wildwood continues a discussion of its own: where and how will the dune most benefit the city’s citizens, business owners, and summer guests? 
With the 2017 summer on the horizon, commissioners have only a short window of time to present the DEP and Corps with their suggestions and concerns before the plan is set and put into action.
Unfinished Business
A lively discussion ensued during “unfinished business” as Mayor Ernie Troiano and Commissioner Peter Byron presented their perspectives on how the city might be best served.
“It’s a work in progress,” Troiano began, how the “30-percent plan” presented by the Corps is “closer to 80.”
According to Troiano, the city is not “interested” in moving Wildwood’s expansive beach back. Troiano wishes to preserve room for “swimming and enjoying the beach” as well as offering a venue for summer concerts.
Troiano’s vision requires (in his words) placing the dune directly against the boardwalk, including appropriate walkways to the desired beach space.
“How does this benefit the city?” Byron countered. “Why have the dune close to the boardwalk instead of moving it out?” According to Byron, the commissioners initially agreed to have the dune 200 feet out from the boardwalk, providing a “buffer” and space between for potential recreational purposes and parking.
“You can’t see over it (the dune), Pete,” Troiano replied, stating his position.
Concerns for police being able to patrol the dune and an obstructed view add to Troiano’s belief of not moving the dune out further.
When asked for his opinion on the matter, Leonetti said that he is “between a rock and a hard place.”
Leonetti shares Troiano’s concern for not being able to see over the dune and public safety issues. Leonetti also said he would not like to see a parking lot on the south-side of the boardwalk.
According to Byron, he has been working on a “beach plan” and that a recreational area on the Rio Grande Avenue beach area would help bring needed value and “foot traffic” to the south-side.
Tax assessor Jason Hesley concurred with Byron, saying that property values “definitely rise more near the middle” of the boardwalk but “drop off” at the northern and southern ends.
Byron’s plans include possibilities such as a skateboard park, volleyball, and parking.
“You have your opinion,” Troiano said, “and I can have mine.”
Troiano restated his position based on safety, a view of the beach, and room for concerts that would bring revenue to the city as a whole.
In a later telephone interview, Troiano said for anyone with concerns or questions to “get hold of me,” and he would address and answer them. Troiano added that each commissioner is entitled to their opinion.
Byron also told the Herald that the recreational area has the support of many Boardwalk Special Improvement District and Greater Wildwood Tourism Improvement and Development Authority members.
“Time is of the essence here,” Byron said, referring to the city’s need to present an agreed plan to the DEP and Army Corps for this tourist season.
To contact Rachel Rogish, email rrogish@cmcherald.com.