Wildwood OKs Back Bay Development; Mayor Faces Rainforest Wood Use Critics

WILDWOOD ─ “I hoped to see responsible leadership,” Dr. Steven Fenichel began as he addressed Wildwood City Commissioners during public comment Dec. 14. 
“The science does not seem to move you.” Fenichel, an environmental advocate from Ocean City, was one of many who spoke at the Dec. 14 meeting. He cited ecological and deaths of Brazilian environmentalists in their concerns for the proposed boardwalk reconstruction that Mayor Ernie Troiano wishes to have completed in 2017.
Fenichel read an account of the alleged murder of Brazilian environmentalists, Santos Rodriguez, and his wife due to the illegal timber trade. According to Fenichel, Sister Dorothy Stag was also murdered for the same reason.
“You should be aware,” said Fenichel, who went on to describe the apathy of those who “just want a sleek looking boardwalk.”
Georgina Shanley of Ocean City reminded Troiano and others of rising sea levels that would be impacted if rainforest hardwoods were used to replace the boards.
“We appeal to you,” said Shanley. Troiano responded to the criticism, defending the city’s proposed project for the boardwalk and its back bay redevelopment.
Troiano replied, “I have been looking at different avenues, too.” Troiano said he has spoken with an environmentalist in New York State on the possibility of using logs that have lain at the bottom of lakes for over 100 years.
By recycling the wood, Troiano said that levels of methane gas, created by the logs, would be reduced. “I want something that is going to last,” said Troiano, though no substance has officially been chosen to rebuild the boards.
Troiano assured all that he cares for the environment but would put the city’s best interests first.
In a post-meeting interview, Byron told the Herald that the City would do its “due diligence” in regards to the environment.  “It’s bigger than just the three commissioners,” Byron said.
Back Bay Development
City officials presented the announcement concerning the city’s back bay. Back Bay LLC will cap and develop the site, creating 110 unit lots. Filling in the site and getting the land “up to grade” will encompass the scope of the project, including creating a road system, sewer system, and other needed infrastructure.
“We’re doing something that’s never been done,” said Troiano as the resolution came to a vote. Troiano and Commissioner Anthony Leonetti voted in favor while Commissioner Peter Byron voted “no.”
“I am still very uncomfortable,” Byron said, explaining his position. Byron emphasized that his reluctance is not based on the developer, but on the city’s decision not to put the project out to bid.
Desiring “what is best for the city,” Byron said he recently saw a single bank statement, presented by the developer, and says he is “Unsure about the developer now.”
With lots selling at an estimated $900,000, Byron stated he could sell a lot in Wildwood Crest, complete with a boat slip, for $1.2 million.
In a post-meeting interview, Byron said, “I have confidence moving forward” as Joseph Baumann represents the city as redevelopment counsel.
Byron says he believes that Baumann will “make the right decision” for Wildwood “at the end of the day.”
With a 2-1 vote, the resolution passed.
Engineer’s Report
During the engineer’s report, the sewer replacement project was reported as being “on schedule” and that a reconstruction of Spicer and Park avenues will begin in early 2017.
A grant application has also been filed for a continuous bike path through the Wildwoods.
The Army Corps of Engineers’ “30-percent plan” also came before the commissioners.
According to Troiano, “parts” of the corps’ plan “does not work,” and that he has had discussions with North Wildwood Mayor Patrick Rosenello and Wildwood Crest Mayor Carl Groon on the matter.
Byron suggested that all three municipalities submit a “joint letter” to the corps, but Troiano alleged that North Wildwood is satisfied with the plan as presented thus far, leaving Wildwood and the Crest with the concerns.
Troiano explained his uncertainty based upon possible “private property” issues that the dune line would create. Also, moving the ocean 1,000 feet closer is “not an option,” according to Troiano.
“Because we’ve been ignored for so long, we’ve made our beach an economic engine,” Troiano added, not only for the island as a whole but also for the state.
To contact Rachel Rogish, email rrogish@cmcherald.com.