Wildwood Preps for ‘Early Season;’ Sidewalks Quizzed, Free Shred Day

WILDWOOD ─ The city Board of Commissioners met March 23; although the meeting was brief, the commissioners answered residents’ questions concerning various aspects of the coming season.
Mayor Ernie Troiano, as he wished everyone a “happy and healthy Easter holiday,” referred to this time of year as the “early season.” With Memorial Day Weekend only two months away, the city continues to address reconstruction projects and assisting North Wildwood in sand transferring.
Before the regular work and business sessions, the meeting opened with an ABC meeting to approve a “person-to-person license transfer of 514 W. Taylor Ave. Rest. Inc, t/a Tavern on the Bay. . .to GSB Liquors, LLC, t/a Backfin Blues Bar and Grill.” With no questions or comments, the resolution was passed unanimously.
Although the city engineer was absent, the agenda held five resolutions directly dealing with the proposed work on Susquehanna Avenue. 
A grant management plan was authorized by mayor and commissioners if the city is awarded funding. According to the resolution, “the City…is applying for a Small Cities grant from the Urgent Need Fund and, if awarded funding, will enter into grant agreements with the N.J. Department of Community Affairs.” Replacing the bulkhead at Susquehanna will stretch from West Cedar Avenue to West Lincoln Avenue.
Another element of the Susquehanna Project involves “identifying CDBG (Community Development Block Grant) Fair Housing Officer as Christopher Woods.”
Details concerning Wood’s appointment are stated in the resolution noting the city must make efforts to “affirmatively further fair housing.” Troiano, in light of the engineer’s absence, said that a full report of various improvement projects will be given.
Under ordinances, seven came before commissioners, including a capital ordinance “providing for various improvements and acquisitions authorized to be undertaken by the Water Utility of the City of Wildwood.” The funds appropriated total $500,000.
Troiano announced that a “Shred Day” will be held April 20 between 8:30 a.m. and noon at City Hall. “This is a free event,” said Troiano. Residents may bring assorted papers to be safely shredded and disposed of by the city.
When the floor was opened for public comment, resident Al Brennan approached.
“Easter’s here,” Brennan began, “the kids will be here. Are the restrooms open?” Brennan referred to the restrooms on the boardwalk and Troiano replied, “Yes, I will send you a schedule.”
Brennan also inquired concerning sidewalks being repaired during the Leaming Avenue reconstruction. Brennan asked why the city is “picking and choosing” instead of replacing all sidewalks at once. “It can’t be that much more,” Brennan said.
Troiano said, “I hear you” and explained that the city is “scrimping and saving” by choosing certain sidewalks to repair. “We’ll keep that in mind,” said Troiano.
Brennan concluded by asking why sand is being “stockpiled” on the beach? “Is that for us or North Wildwood?” Brennan asked.
Troiano replied that the sand is for North Wildwood’s sand transfer project and explained that “too much sand” lies on the outfall pipes, affecting other issues in Wildwood.
By pushing excess sand to the waterline, Troiano hopes to reduce “ponding” and other flooding problems.
Jack Morey of The Morey Organization “requested assistance on where the dog beach will go.”
Morey said he wanted “clarity” on the matter.
Commissioner Peter Byron assured Morey that he would call the personnel involved and “get that to you.” Morey then announced the grand opening of the Starlux Mini-Golf and invited Troiano to the event. Morey said that an exact date and details are pending.
Before the meeting adjourned, Troiano remarked on the “early season” already upon Wildwood as temperatures rise and all eyes turn toward the coming summer season.
To contact Rachel Rogish, email rrogish@cmcherald.com.