Regulations to Allow Residents and Businesses to Rebuild Faster, Stronger and Safer from Hurricane Sandy

For more information about FEMA rules and flood insurance issues contact The Landis Co., Realtors. at info@LandisCo.com or (609) 263-3400.   www.LandisCo.com 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASEJanuary 24, 2013 Contact: Larry Ragonese (609) 292-2994 Governor Christie Outlines Regulations to Allow Residents and Businesses to Rebuild Faster, Stronger and Safer from Hurricane Sandy Standards Will Ensure Lower Premiums In The Long Term, Protecting Residents From Out Of Control Costs (13/P6) TRENTON – Taking action to give New Jersey families, businesses and local governments the best available guidance to quickly and more durably rebuild from Hurricane Sandy, Governor Chris Christie today signed emergency regulations to adopt the Federal Emergency Management Agency's (FEMA) updated Advisory Base Flood Elevation (ABFEs) maps as the rebuilding standard for the entire state. These regulations establish requirements and more efficient procedures for residents and businesses to construct, reconstruct, relocate and elevate buildings and other structures in flood hazard areas. Using the best available science and data as reflected in these advisory maps will give families, businesses, and communities the best assessment of their risk – allowing them to better mitigate damage from future flood events, avoid higher flood insurance costs, and begin the rebuilding process immediately. Because of federal reforms to the National Flood Insurance Program to move towards increased flood insurance rates that reflect actual risk, families who rebuild their properties in a manner that does not conform to updated base flood elevations will see significant premium increases. By acting today to use the latest available information and data from FEMA to set rebuilding standards for New Jersey, Governor Christie is helping homeowners and small businesses rebuild properties that are less at-risk, while also helping them avoid potentially massive, out-of-control flood insurance costs over the long-run. While each property and rebuilding situation is unique, an example provided by FEMA illustrates the dramatic impact new standards can have on flood insurance rates, in addition to the issues of increasing the risk to the safety of the property and its inhabitants. If a property owner is currently in an "A zone" at 4 feet below the BFE elevation and are reclassified as a higher threat "V zone" and take no action, that property will be rated at a higher risk and be subject to an approximate annual premium (phased in) of up to $31,000. In addition to the threat posed by being 4 feet below the BFE in elevation, the property owner will be non-compliant with V zone construction standards. In contrast, if the owner were to rebuild to the suggested BFE and appropriate construction standards, the annual premium (phased in) would be approximately $7,000. If the resident rebuilds 2 feet above the BFE with the construction standards for their new zone, the annual premium would be approximately $3,500. A savings of up to $27,500 annually. "It is absolutely critical that we take this opportunity to rebuild New Jersey smarter and stronger in the aftermath of Sandy. That's why today I am approving emergency regulations being proposed by the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) to help fast-track the rebuilding process," said Governor Christie. "By doing so, we're helping residents and businesses who have endured so much, to get back on their feet while at the same time ensuring that rebuilding occurs as quickly as possible, without costly red tape slowing this process down for our families and small businesses. As New Jersey recovers from Sandy, utilizing the best available data provided in these FEMA maps will give our communities the ability to rebuild with the least possible risk from future storms moving forward." With over 8.4 million residents in its 8,721 square mile area and approximately 3.8 million residents in flood hazard areas, without swift and immediate action, the state is presented with a risk of continued severe impacts during the next flood event. The DEP is adopting an emergency rule with common-sense provisions for rebuilding stronger structures, more quickly: Adopts the height and construction requirements in FEMA's Advisory Base Flood Elevation (ABFE) maps as a state standard for reconstruction. The ABFEs reflect the best available, most current scientific data about 100-year floods. Allows property owners who rebuild to the ABFEs (plus one additional foot, as has been required by the New Jersey Flood Hazard Area Control Act since 2007) to do so via Permit By Rule (PBR). This eliminates the need for thousands of property owners to apply for DEP's Flood Hazard Area permits, saving them at least $500 in permit fees plus the design and engineering costs associated with an application, and allowing them to begin reconstruction without waiting for department review as part of the rebuilding process. Allows "wet floodproofing" for non-residential buildings. Wet floodproofing means that a building may flood but will structurally withstand the water, and enables reconstruction in urban areas in a safe and less costly manner than requiring elevations or dry floodproofing. This is especially important in highly developed areas like Hoboken or Jersey City. Without this change, residents and small businesses would have to comply with the existing rules, which could significantly drive up costs and make some redevelopment impossible. Eliminates requirements that now allow certain building foundations to have only three walls –a potentially unsafe construction method. By adopting the ABFEs as the state standard immediately, the state will ensure that coastal communities are reconstructed using the best elevation guidance that is available, preventing the level of damage experienced in Sandy. The emergency rules also bolster DEP construction requirements to make structures more storm-resilient, to prevent the level of destruction caused by Sandy. "Unfortunately many of the structures that were hardest hit by Sandy were built decades ago, prior to the establishment of much more protective state and federal building elevation requirements," said DEP Commissioner Bob Martin. "If homes had been built to these standards prior to Sandy, it is fair to say that property damage would have been significantly less. It is critical that we have the statewide elevation standard and a permit by rule process in place before large numbers of permit applications for rebuilding start coming in and reconstruction of our state begins in full force." In many cases, FEMA flood maps for coastal areas of New Jersey were more than two decades old and did not reflect real hazards. FEMA was in the process of updating the flood insurance maps, upon which the ABFEs are based, when Sandy struck. The agency released the ABFEs December 15, 2012 for some 200 communities affected by tidal waters. The maps use modern technology, modeling and updated topographical maps to better define storm risks. They are designed to help state and local governments employ mitigation actions that ensure structures are rebuilt stronger, safer, and less vulnerable to future flooding events. Adoption of the emergency Flood Hazard Area Act rule using the ABFEs as the base elevation standard will ensure that every development in every municipality will apply the appropriate elevation standards across the board. Otherwise municipalities might adopt a patchwork of local standards that might be implemented while FEMA works to finalize the flood maps based on the new ABFEs. This process could take many months and cause significant delays as New Jersey recovers from its worst-ever natural disaster. The rule will become effective immediately upon filing with the Office of Administrative Law. Copies of the emergency rules and the DEP statement of imminent peril are attached to the release. For more on ABFEs, visit: http://www.region2coastal.com/sandy/abfe

Sea Isle City ~ Rebuilding the Jersey Shore

Smart thinking and smart growth could equal sustainability for the Jersey Shore

Is it possible to rebuild the Jersey Shore so that it is more resilient to extreme storms like Hurricane Sandy? 

By Tom Johnson, December 13, 2012 in Energy & Environment 

Related Links

Ten Years to Rebuild a Smarter, More Resilient Jersey Shore, Experts Say

That issue could qualify as Topic No. 1 for many local and state officials as they struggle to decide where and what to do about rebuilding a coast devastated by what most call the worst storm to hit New Jersey.

It was also Topic No. 1 when Tom Johnson, NJ Spotlight's cofounder and energy and environment writer, sat down and talked with WHYY/NewsWorks about the plans and policies that are being considered -- particularly a comprehensive dune system that will reshape the Shore and remake its communities.

Download Podcast 

For more information about FEMA, flood insurance, and other Sea Isle City building issues contact 

The Landis Co., Realtors, (609) 263-3400 or info@LandisCo.com . wwww.LandisCo.com

SEA ISLE CITY INFORMATION FOR PROPERTY OWNERS:

Sea Isle City - December 20, 2012, Property owners who sustained material damage  to structures subject to real property assessment may qualify for a reduction in  assessment pursuant to NJSA 54:4-35.1. Owners must fill out a Material Damage from  Storm Assessment Review form, which is available on the official Sea Isle City website  (via the "City Departments/Downloadable Forms/Tax Assessor Documents" tabs) or  in person from the Tax Assessor’s Office, located at 4501 Park Road (inside the  former Sea Isle City Public School). The Assessor’s Office may also be reached by  phone at (609) 263-4461 ext. 1228.bThe completed form must be returned to the  Assessor’s Office by January 9, 2013. For more information about what to do  contact The Landis Co., Realtors, (609) 263-3400 or info@LandisCo.com www.LandisCo.com

FEMA Likely to Expand Flood Zones Along N.J. Coast in Wake of Sandy

The federal government is poised to expand flood zones and push for increases in building elevations along the New Jersey coast in the wake of flooding from Hurricane Sandy.

The Federal Emergency Management Agency was planning to revise flood-elevation rules in coastal zones sometime next year, but due to the extensive damage caused by the storm it will issue stricter advisory recommendations as early as next week.

For more information about Sea Isle City real estate, flood insurance, mortgage finance contact The Landis Co., Realtors at (609) 263-3400 or info@LandisCo.com

For find us on the web at www.LandisCo.com or www.SeaIsleCityRealEstate.com 

The rules, expected to result in construction at much higher elevations along the New Jersey shore, will be pushed earlier than expected to make sure rebuilding from Sandy will follow stricter codes. The concern was that people would rebuild to today’s requirements and that new construction already would be obsolete sometime next year.

A flooded backyard in a Hoboken, N.J. neighborhood, on Nov. 1. The storm surge severely flooded much of Hoboken in immediate days after Sandy. Photo credit: Liz Roll/FEMA.

“In all likelihood, they will change the building heights. Next week we’ll have a better idea of what’s actually going to happen when these advisories come out,” Neil Byrne, the construction official and certified flood plain manager for Sea Isle City, told The Press of Atlantic City.

FEMA will issue “Advisory Base Flood Elevations,” dubbed Advisory BFEs, for New Jersey’s coastal counties next week and follow that the week of Dec. 17 with Advisory BFEs for New York coastal areas. The Advisory BFEs will be estimates of areas that have a 1 percent chance of being flooded each year, the so-called 100-year storm, and will be expanded from current mapping.

Byrne was one of the flood managers who participated in a recent online seminar with FEMA that has created a buzz along the shore that the agency would extend to other areas the strict rules that apply to V-zones along the shore. The V-zones are high-velocity wave zones along the beach that have the strictest elevation and other building requirements.

Shore towns typically have a V-zone along the beach and different A-zones behind it. Sometimes the highest ground, with no real flood concerns, can be a different zone, often called an X-zone.

Each town has its own zones and heights that affect FEMA ratings and flood insurance costs. In Sea Isle City, which has one of the better FEMA ratings along the shore, construction must be at 14 feet above base flood elevation in the strictest V-zone.

A photo of a Bay Head, N.J., home destroyed by Sandy. Photo credit: Liz Roll/FEMA, Nov. 26.

Besides the V-14 zone, Sea Isle also has a V-12 zone calling for 12-foot heights, along with A-10 and A-11 zones. Sea Isle requires an additional foot to all zones for what is known as “freeboard” underneath a structure. That means, for example, that floor joists on the first floor of structures in the V-14 really must be 15 feet above base flood elevation. Adding freeboard can improve FEMA ratings. Some towns add two feet of freeboard in each zone and get better FEMA ratings.

Long Beach Township Mayor Joseph Mancini said there is a lot of speculation about what the new regulations could include.

On Friday afternoon, the township held its regular Board of Commissioners meeting, which usually lasts for about 20 minutes during the winter months but went on for about an hour with discussion of the flood maps.

“Everyone is concerned about what’s coming out. I’ve told everyone, `Relax. We’ll see what it is, and we’re going to have to conform to whatever it is,”’ Mancini said.

When it comes to discussion about extending the V-zone back toward the street, that would address issues of wind and water impact in the township’s Village Harbor section that Mancini said took a beating when 4-foot waves were hitting homes.

Bryne said many properties in town suffered substantial damage from Sandy and should be rebuilt to the new standards, but he noted it still isn’t clear what they will be. It’s also unclear if they will be stricter than what would have been required next year if Sandy had not hit.

The FEMA spokesman for New Jersey did not return phone calls Thursday and Friday. A spokesman for FEMA in Washington also did not supply requested information on Advisory BFEs.

“It all depends on how high they raise the BFEs,” Byrne said. “They could come up with a zone called a Coastal A, which would be an area of limited wave action, waves of less than 3 feet, behind the V-zones, where building is to the same standards as the V-zone.”

North Wildwood Mayor William Henfey was concerned. He said new construction could dwarf existing homes built at ground level.

“The shore towns are already built up,” argued Henfey. “There’s got to be a better way. Let’s just not go overboard.”

Cape May Point Deputy Mayor Anita van Heeswyk said new mapping by FEMA in 1995 put her Central Avenue home in a flood zone even though water has never been on the property. Van Heeswyk participated in the online seminar and said one thing she got from it is FEMA is pushing for more freeboard under homes and the new maps will come with higher flood insurance premiums.

Paperwork van Heeswyk received from FEMA said the Advisory BFEs will reflect higher elevations than on current flood insurance-rate maps. It said coastal flood zones may extend further inland. FEMA also predicted higher initial costs but lower long-term costs due to less flood damage.

Whatever height requirements emerge, Byrne said they will apply only to new construction or restoration work under the damage rules.

The FEMA recommendations are also not law. Towns still must put any new height or building requirements into local ordinances. Byrne said there would be public hearings before anything is enacted.

Failure to follow FEMA guidelines, however, can affect the agency’s ratings for the town along with the price and availability of federal flood insurance. Following what FEMA wants can lower premiums and possibly even result in more storm-reconstruction money. Homeowners in towns that conform to FEMA rules can get as much as $30,000 for flood-proofing, elevation, relocation or demolition of a house in a high-risk area.

Older towns with ground-level construction could face the most aesthetic problems. In Cape May, a town full of 19th-century homes, most are built at ground level.

“The problem is you’ll be able to build less and everything will be up on piling,” said Construction Official Bill Callahan, who also serves as flood plain manager.

Prior to Sandy, FEMA had been expected to unveil new flood maps next August. FEMA is now expected to issue Advisory BFEs for 10 counties in New Jersey and eight in New York.

Coastal homeowners already were facing higher flood-insurance costs before Sandy hit. A federal law approved in July re-authorized the National Flood Insurance Program for five years but eliminated a lot of discounts and subsidies, including those for secondary homes, many businesses and properties that suffer repeated flood damage.

For more information about Sea Isle City real estate, flood insurance, mortgage finance contact The Landis Co., Realtors at (609) 263-3400 or info@LandisCo.com

For find us on the web at www.LandisCo.com or www.SeaIsleCityRealEstate.com 

Sea Isle City Hurricane Relief Fund Recives check for $5000

On November 16, a “Pay It Forward” fund raiser was held to benefit Hurricane Sandy victims. Shown presenting a $5000 check to the Sea Isle City Hurricane Sandy Relief Fund on December 3 is Sea Isle City real estate broker/appraiser Jamie Sofroney (center), organizer of the event.  Accepting the check is Sea Isle City Chamber of Commerce and Revitalization President.

 

 Great job Jamie! 

.

NJ Bill S-2368, sponsored by Senators Sweeney and Doherty, would prohibit communities who accept federal or state beach replenishment funding from utilizing beach user fees

From the City of Sea Isle City

December 13, 2012

MAYOR’S MESSAGE:

The City continues to recover from the effects of Super Storm Sandy and to focus on restoration efforts.  The Public Works Department has done an extraordinary job at cleaning up the natural and man-made debris left in the wake of the storm.

In a related and extremely urgent issue for cities like Sea Isle, I am very disturbed that, coinciding with this time of restoration, shore communities are being challenged with the possibility of eliminating our ability to charge user fees for our beaches through the sale of beach tags.  This challenge comes in the form of legislation being proposed by State Senators Stephen Sweeney and Michael Doherty.  Bill S-2368, sponsored by Senators Sweeney and Doherty, would prohibit communities who accept federal or state beach replenishment funding from utilizing beach user fees (beach tags).   On Monday, December 10, a press conference was held in Sea Isle City that was attended by officials from every Cape May County town that utilizes beach tags.  This coastal coalition unanimously expressed their opposition to this proposed legislation because of the negative impact it would have on shore communities.  Bill S-2368 would eliminate over one million dollars in revenue to Sea Isle and would require the City to take one of two unfortunate measures:

1.    Eliminate or greatly reduce services
2.    Raise property taxes to make up the lost revenue

For the average Sea Isle City home, the potential increased annual cost to make up for the lost revenue would translate into an additional property tax in an amount in excess of $150.00.  Frankly, the legislation as drafted would not permit this, as it is in contradiction of the state imposed 2% cap on property taxes.  This is an extremely important issue because your local government has no desire to either eliminate services or raise property taxes.  If you share my opinion, I encourage you to contact the offices of Senators Sweeney and Doherty and voice your opposition to their proposed legislation.  Their contact information is below.  I also suggest that you contact our district’s legislative team, Senator Van Drew and Assemblymen Albano and Milam.  The Ocean City Sentinel Ledger published a detailed editorial concerning this topic in its December 12 edition.  If you are interested in learning more about why this bill is being so strenuously opposed, click the link below.

This legislation is attempting to create a misleading link between beach user fees and disaster recovery funds and is clearly being made into a political issue.  To do so as we struggle to recover from the most devastating storm in the history of the northeast is politics at its worst.

On a far more positive note, the County received bids on December 12 for the project to reconstruct JFK Boulevard from the bridge to Landis Avenue.  The apparent low bidder is Asphalt Paving Systems, Inc. of Hammonton, NJ.  There was intense competition for this project with bids received from ten companies, the low bid coming in at $3,773,000.  Best of all, project construction is being completely funded by the Federal government and should be substantially completed by the summer season.  This project is part of our continuing effort to complete the Beach to Bay Corridor.

My best wishes go out to you and your family for a Happy and Healthy Holiday Season!  Merry Christmas!

Smile…You’re in Sea Isle!

Mayor Leonard Desiderio

Senate President Stephen M. Sweeney: 935 Kings Highway, Suite 400, West Deptford, NJ 08086.  Phone: (856) 251-9801 (West Deptford) or (856) 339-0808 (Salem).  Email: sensweeney@njleg.org.

Senator Michael Doherty: 127 Belvidere Avenue, 2nd Floor, Washington, NJ 07882.  Phone: (908) 835-0552 (Washington) and (908) 722-2427 (Bridgewater). Email: sendoherty@njleg.org.

Senator Jeff Van Drew: 21 North Main Street, Cape May Court House, NJ 08210.  Phone: (609) 465-0700. Email: senvandrew@njleg.org .

Assemblyman Nelson Albano: 21 North Main St.
Cape May Court House, NJ 08210.  Phone: (609) 465-0700. Email: asmalbano@njleg.org .

Assemblyman Matthew Milam: 21 North Main Sreet, Cape May Court House, NJ 08210.  Phone: (609) 465-0700. Email: asmmilam@njleg.org .

To learn how you can contact other New Jersey legislators, visit http://www.njleg.state.nj.us/members/roster.asp.

To read the editorial column printed in the Ocean City Sentinel on December 12, click HERE.

For more information about real estate or whats happening in Sea Isle City, NJ contact The Landis Co., Realtors (609) 263-3400 or info@LandisCo.com . Find us on the internet at www.LandisCo.com  

Shore towns concerned over ‘anti-beach tag’ legislation

Written by Columb Higgins Friday, December 07, 2012

SEA ISLE CITY – Officials from Cape May County towns will meet in Sea Isle City Monday to voice their opposition to proposed legislation that would end beach tag fees for communities that accept state or federal funding for beach replenishment.

Sea Isle Mayor Leonard Desiderio said his city will host the press conference at 10:30 a.m. on Monday, Dec. 10 at the Sea Isle City Public School. City Hall and public safety operations have been moved to the school since Hurricane Sandy.
Desiderio said the conference will “show a united front of shore towns that are in opposition of the recently-proposed legislation to eliminate beach tag fees.”
Mayors and other community leaders from Ocean City, Avalon, Stone Harbor and Cape May City will be in attendance.
Two state senators recently introduced bipartisan legislation to end beach tag fees in any Garden State municipality that accepts state or federal beach replenishment funds.
“Where taxpayers are paying for beach restoration, they shouldn’t be taxed a second time just to walk on the sand,” said state Senate president Stephen Sweeney (D-Salem, Gloucester, Cumberland). “As New Jerseyans, we are all in the recovery and rebuilding process together. That means we should all be able to enjoy the reopening of our state’s greatest natural resource together, too.”
State Sen. Michael Doherty, (R-Hunterdon, Warren) and Sweeney introduced the legislation calling for free beach access and public restrooms. The bill, S-2368, would apply to towns that accept grants or aid from the state or federal governments after Nov. 2 for the purpose of replenishing storm-damaged beaches.
“It is likely that state and federal taxpayers will provide hundreds of millions of dollars to repair and replenish New Jersey beaches that were washed away during Hurricane Sandy,” said Doherty. “Considering the massive public resources that will be directed at rebuilding many New Jersey beaches, it only seems fair to ensure that everyone have the opportunity to enjoy free access to the beaches they will support and help rebuild with their tax dollars.”
Beach communities raise millions of dollars each year through beach tag fees.
For instance, Cape May raises more than $2 million a year from beach tags. City council there is considering increasing the fees at its Dec. 18 meeting.
“From my perspective, there needs to be an in depth review before this kind of legislation goes anywhere,” said Cape May Mayor Ed Mahaney. “There needs to be discussion with and input from the shore communities. The proposed legislation doesn’t take into consideration the costs that local towns bear in maintaining clean, safe beaches for visitors.”

For more information about Sea Isle City real estate contact The Landis co., Realtors. (609) 263-3400 or info@LandisCo.com. Find us on the web at www.LandisCo.com

Sea Isle City E-NEWSLETTER

November 15, 2012

Brought to you by The Landis Co., Realtors, Sea Isle City, NJ. For more information about Sea Isle City rentals or real estate contact us at (609) 263-3400 or info@LandisCo.com !

www.LandisCo.com

MAYOR’S MESSAGE:

Without a doubt, the past few weeks have affected each of us in ways that we won’t soon forget. Fortunately, even though Sea Isle City did sustain some damage during Hurricane Sandy, we have every reason to be thankful that the storm did not impact our community as it did other towns to the north. Yes, we did receive serious damage to our Public Safety Building on JFK Boulevard and City Hall on Landis Avenue, however we are already moving forward and executing plans to resolve those problems – all the while keeping an eye on the future and giving consideration to the many municipal functions that we must perform in the weeks, months and years ahead.

Because both City Hall and our Public Safety Building had over one-foot of water in their first floors, which resulted in heating, electrical and infrastructure problems, those two buildings are now considered “beyond reasonable repair.” Therefore, after much consideration, we have decided to tear down the Public Safety Building, which for over thirty years has been the home of our Police Department, Volunteer Fire Department, Construction Office and Municipal Courts. Our plan is to build a modern municipal complex in the footprint of the existing Public Safety Building, which will serve as the new home for many of our municipal functions – including our police and fire departments, municipal courts, construction office and all City Hall operations.

As the City develops plans for the construction of the new municipal complex on JFK Boulevard, we will actively seek State and Federal grant money to help finance that project. Details about that effort will follow as available.

In the meantime, we have already begun to move our Police Department and other City operations into the vacant Sea Isle City Public School on Park Road, which was not damaged during the hurricane.  Our clerk’s office has already created an appropriate space inside the school, where we will hold City Council meetings from now on. In the days ahead, City Hall, the Construction Office and our Municipal Courts will also be moved into the school and will operate there until construction of our new municipal complex on JFK Boulevard is completed, which is anticipated to take place in autumn of 2014.  As this important project evolves, we will keep you informed of all developments as they occur.

I would be remiss if I did not mention the many City employees who have worked diligently before, during and after Hurricane Sandy to ensure our community’s safety and well-being.  My hat goes off to our City Business Administrator George Savastano (who spent two nights riding out the storm on the second level of City Hall), the Sea Isle City Public Works Department (who have done an amazing job clearing debris and sand in Sandy’s wake), the Sea Isle City Police Department and Office of Emergency Management (who kept us safe every step of the way), the members of Sea Isle’s Volunteer Fire Department and Ambulance Corps (who answered more calls during and after the storm than you can imagine), the Sea Isle City Beach Patrol (who physically shoveled two feet of sand from the first level of their headquarters immediately after the storm), the employees at City Hall (including our Municipal Clerk’s Office and Financial Department, who have been working under very difficult conditions while waiting to move into the public school), our Construction Official Neil Byrne and his staff, and everyone else who has put the interests of our town before their own. Because of their efforts, Sea Isle City never missed a beat during the storm with regards to public safety and the necessary services our town requires.

It is also important to mention that, due to the efforts of our Public Works Department, Sea Isle City did not need to hire outside contractors to clear sand and debris after the storm – just as many other island communities have been forced to do. Since the storm passed, property owners have continually told me how amazed they are by the amount of work that has been accomplished in such a short period of time. Obviously, never before have the benefits of “teamwork” been more evident in Sea Isle City.

In addition to our many public officials and City employees who “stepped up to the plate” during Hurricane Sandy, I am also very grateful to the countless volunteers who have joined together in the storm’s aftermath to clean-away debris and help their neighbors in need. On Saturday, our Chamber of Commerce & Revitalization organized and executed the cleaning of Excursion Park and the Promenade at JFK Boulevard, where Sandy dumped thousands of pounds of sand.  I can’t say enough about the good work our chamber does for this community throughout the year – no matter what the weather – and I am grateful to each volunteer who has made a difference in our town.

Fortunately, local businesses are already re-opening – and continue to re-open – all over Sea Isle City.  I am also very happy to report that the Sea Isle City Chamber of Commerce and Revitalization is holding their annual “Girls Weekend” as planed on November 16, 17 and 18.  Please visit the chamber’s website, www.seaislechamber.com, to learn where to shop, eat and play this weekend – and what special deals will be available.

In closing, I would like to once again say how proud I am to be the mayor of Sea Isle City.  In fact, I have never been more proud to be associated with the good people of this town, who bravely and selflessly responded to the needs of others as Hurricane Sandy rolled along our coastline. As is often the case during my newsletter messages, I have several “shout outs” for people who I would like to acknowledge. My thanks go to Sea Isle’s Public Works employees, Chris Glancey and the entire Chamber of Commerce & Revitalization, Joe Ragusa of JAR Contractors, Joe and Maureen Prato, VFW Post 1963, Boy Scout Troop 76, Shane Dietrich and Michael Gardener of Clermont, and the many other volunteers who are helping return us to normal.

Have a happy and healthy Thanksgiving!  See you at the Holiday Extravaganza during Thanksgiving weekend!

Smile…You’re in Sea Isle!

Mayor Leonard C. Desiderio.



COUNCIL MESSAGE:

City Council would like to publically commend and thank Sea Isle City’s many municipal employees, who have worked tirelessly in the weeks following Hurricane Sandy. The City looks so much better today than it did immediately after the storm, and we have our City employees to thank for that!  Even though the work is not yet completed, you can expect that Sea Isle City will continue to look better and better with each passing week.

Currently, Sea Isle's City Engineer is performing surveys of our beaches to help quantify the erosion that occurred during the storm event.  However, at a glance, it is evident that, while it suffered some erosion, the beach did a fantastic job of protecting private and public property.  This was possible in large part to the recent beach replenishment programs undertaken by the City over the past several years. As a result of these proactive projects, not only was our property provided with vital shore protection, but we also have significant beach remaining, and we anticipate the summer of 2013 will be a wonderful season to spend on the sand here in Sea Isle City

As was announced on November 6, the City of Sea Isle City is working in conjunction with several local civic organizations to provide relief for the less fortunate victims of the recent storm. VFW Post 1963 is currently collecting non-perishable food and clothing (please drop-off items at the Post on JFK Boulevard), monetary donations for victims are now being accepted at any First Bank of Sea Isle City location (make checks payable to Hurricane Sandy Sea Isle City Relief Fund), and the Chamber of Commerce & Revitalization is offering ten families who suffered losses during the hurricane the opportunity to spend the upcoming Thanksgiving holiday weekend in Sea Isle City for free.  The chamber is currently working with local businesses, property owners and anyone who is willing to donate their home or other gifts during Sea Isle’s 1st Annual Holiday Extravaganza between Wednesday, November 21 and Sunday, November 25. Local property owners who would like to donate their homes can contact any realtor in town or the Chamber directly at (609) 263-9090. City Council applauds the chamber and all those who are willing to help this effort.

As work continues around town to recover from Hurricane Sandy, City Council continues to work on our 2013 Municipal Budget along with our 5-Year Capital Funding Program. A further analysis of the Capital Funding Program will be considered during a public workshop on Tuesday, November 27, at 2:00 p.m. in the Public School on Park Road. All are invited to attend that meeting because community input is valuable to us.

In closing, we hope to see as many people as possible attend the Chamber of Commerce and Revitalization’s 1st Annual Holiday Extravaganza on November 23-24, when you and your family can enjoy ice skating at Excursion Park (skate rentals will be available), a holiday parade with Santa, a tree lighting ceremony, entertainment and many other activities.  Please visit the chamber’s website, www.seaislechamber.com for more information about the Extravaganza. And, don’t forget to visit Sea Isle City’s website, www.seaislecitynj.us, for details about other upcoming holiday events, such as the Sea Isle City Historical Museum’s Open House on December 8.  Also, when shopping this holiday season, don’t forget to visit The Crooked Tail Thrift Shop, 4208 Landis Avenue, where all proceeds benefit Save Our Strays and Sea Isle’s stray cat population.

Best regards from the members of City Council

PROJECT UPDATES:

Obviously, City projects, both current and future, have been greatly impacted by the unprecedented storm event we’ve just experienced.  While all the projects that were under contract, and in various stages of preparation or construction, will move forward to completion, our plans for the future have been altered by this event.  In the week prior to the storm event, the City Council held a capital plan workshop to review the proposed citywide capital improvements for the five year period of 2013 through 2017.  In addition, the council received an update on the ongoing facility study, which involves needs assessment and recommendations to address public facility requirements now and into the future.  As a result of the storm event, the facility study has been significantly altered.  As indicated in the Mayor’s message, we are embarking on a plan to build a modern municipal complex in the footprint of the existing Public Safety Building.  The planning and design of this facility will be a very public process, and we will keep you updated as we proceed with this project, along with all projects related to our recovery from this historic storm event. 

The following are updates for ongoing projects which were underway at the time of the storm:

Lagoon Dredging – The contractor, Wickberg Marine Contracting of Belford, NJ, has completed dredging Rio Grande Lagoon, Rio Delle Isole, and a portion of Rio Del Amore.
All lagoons being dredged are as follows:
Rio Grande (south side of 47th Place)
Rio Delle Stelle (between 46th and 47th Place)
Rio Delle Luna (between 45th and 46th Place)  
Rio Del Amore (between 44th Street and 45th Place)
Rio Delle Isole (along Venicean Road)
Rio Del Barche (between 43rd Place and 44th Street)
Rio Del Affare (between 42nd and 43rd Place)
Rio Delle Ponte (along Park Road on either side of 43rd Place)

The project provides for the ability of private property owners adjacent to the project area to enter into an agreement with the dredging contractor to dredge their private slips (at the private owner’s expense).  In conjunction with the City project, properties at the above locations do have the required permits to perform private slip dredging.

As part of this project, consistent with the commitment to afford the opportunity to private property owners to have their slips dredged (at their own expense), the City continues to work with the Army Corps of Engineers and the NJ Department of Environmental Protection to obtain permits for previously identified areas of need, including the western side of Venicean Road (along the Intracoastal waterway) and along Sounds Avenue in the area of 38th Street.  Permits for these areas are expected to be obtained by next month, which will allow time for these property owners to come to agreement with the dredging contractor to have their slips dredged prior to completion of the overall project. 

Sewer and Road Reconstruction on Central Avenue (49th to 69th Street) - The project has been contracted to the firm of Lewandowski Construction Industries, Inc., of Waterford, NJ.  This project was put on hold due to the storm event, and will resume operations the week of November 19th.  The sewer portion of the project is expected to be completed this winter; after which the entire roadway will be resurfaced (in the spring).  The project will provide for an upgraded sewer system and new road surface for the entire one mile stretch of roadway.  This section of sewer has been problematic for years, with continuous maintenance issues; and this project will not only provide for appropriate sewage infrastructure, it will assist in decreasing the amount of ground water sent to the county sewage treatment plant, thus saving in unnecessary costs associated with the treatment of “infiltration” water.

Utility Reconstruction on Landis Avenue (54th to 69th Street) – The project has been contracted to F.W. Shawl & Sons of Marmora, NJ, and will provide for water and sewer line replacement in advance of the County project to resurface Landis Avenue from 54th to 69th Street.  This project was put on hold due to the storm, and resumed operations this week.  The County is scheduled to resurface Landis Avenue from 54th to 63rd Street in the spring of 2013.  63rd to 69th Street is now planned to be resurfaced following the summer of 2013.

Inflow and Infiltration (I & I) Remediation – NO CHANGE FROM PREVIOUS UPDATE - The firm of Video Pipe Services, Inc. of Newfield, NJ, has substantially completed the project, and is in the process of working with the City Engineer to close-out the project.  The need for this project was identified over the past several years through a comprehensive investigation and analysis of the City’s sewer system.  Sewer systems are prone to both inflow (overland water entering the sewer system through manhole covers and other surface openings in the system); and infiltration (entry of groundwater into pipelines through cracks, deteriorated pipe, and pipe joints).  The effects of I & I are symptoms of deterioration of the sewer system that must be corrected to avoid more problematic maintenance issues and potential failure of the sewer system.  I & I is also costly, in that the City must pay for the unnecessary treatment of water that enters the sanitary sewer system.  This is the first phase of a multi-year citywide sewer maintenance and improvement project that will ensure the continued viability of the City’s vital sewer infrastructure.  The next phase of I & I work will involve replacement of sewer lines that cannot be substantially corrected through internal, “no-dig” repairs, as were performed in this phase.  As those projects are engineered and prepared for bidding and construction, we will provide updates on the specific details of the projects. 

Utility Reconstruction, Various Streets -   This project was also put on hold due to the storm, and resumed operations this week.  The project includes replacement of deteriorated underground utilities (water and sewer) in several streets, as part of the City’s comprehensive road and utility program.  The project is being performed by Garden State General Construction, Inc., of Rio Grande, NJ.  Following utility work, the streets will receive new surface paving.  The following streets are included in this project:
1.    42nd Street, Landis Avenue to Promenade
2.    48th Street, Landis Avenue to Promenade
3.    50th Street, Landis Avenue to Promenade                      
4.    51st Street, Landis Avenue to Promenade                       
5.    60th Street, Landis Avenue to Central Avenue   
6.    43rd Place street end with guide rail barrier        
7.    79th Street, Landis Avenue to Central Avenue   
8.    60th Street, Landis Avenue to Beach End 
          

JFK Boulevard Reconstruction, from Bridge to Landis Avenue – The County worked with the City to design this project to reconstruct and reconfigure JFK Boulevard from the bridge to Landis Avenue.  The project limits also include reconstruction of Landis Avenue from JFK Boulevard to 40th Street.  The project scope includes the addition of widened sidewalks, decorative lighting, streetscape improvements and landscaping, a new traffic light at JFK Boulevard and Park Road, drainage improvements, and elevation of the road surface which will assist during times of flooding.  The project involves federal funding, and the County has obtained authorization from federal and state agencies to proceed to bidding.  The County will receive bids for the project on November 28, which will allow them to award a contract for a winter construction start.  In this event, construction is expected to take place between January and May 2013.

Water Well and Well House Construction at 50th Street –  The contract was awarded at the September 25th Council meeting to the successful low bidder, B&H Contracting, Inc., of Folsom, NJ, in the amount of $1,363,000.  Demolition of the building has taken place, and the contractor is in the process of preparing to drill for the new well.  Ultimately, the project will provide for the capability to deliver approximately one million gallons of water each day to City residents, and will help to ensure the viability of our critical water infrastructure now and into the future.  A portion of the work will require around the clock operations (during well drilling, which will extend to a depth of over 800 feet).  The surrounding residents will be notified regarding these operations, and the City will take measures to minimize any inconveniences.  The project is expected to be completed prior to the summer 2013 season.

Mill/Pave Overlay of Various Streets - On October 3rd, the City received three bids for the milling and re-paving of various streets.  During the October 9 City Council meeting, Council awarded the contract to South State, Inc., of Bridgeton, NJ, in the amount of $317,185.66.  A pre-construction meeting was held for the project last month. The work is scheduled to be completed this fall.  The following streets are included in the project:
30th St. Landis to Bay End
34th St. Landis to Central
38th St. Landis to Central
39th St. Landis to Central
40th St. Central to Cini
40th St. Cini to Kneass
Cini St. 39th to 40th
47th St. Central to Park
Roberts Ave. 77th to 79th
86th St. Landis to Pleasure
Roberts Ave. 56th Street to 54th

Utility Services at Intersections of 42nd and 44th Street on Central Avenue – The project is being performed by Garden State Construction, of Rio Grande, NJ, and involves replacement of the water main at the 42nd and 44th street intersections of Central Avenue.  The work at 42nd and Central was completed prior to the storm, and 44th and Central Avenue is expected to be complete in the next two weeks.  The work is being done in advance of repaving of Central Avenue from JFK to 49th Street (the repaving costs will be offset by grant funding from the New Jersey Transportation Trust Fund). 

ILLEGAL DUMPING WILL NOT BE TOLERATED:

Please visit the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection to learn about fines and the environmental impact of illegal dumping, www.nj.gov/dep/.

PAY-IT-FORWARD FUNDRAISER FOR HURRICANE SANDY VICTIMS:

A fundraiser will be held at The Wildwood Country Club on Friday November 16th, 2012 to raise money for victims that lost everything during Hurricane Sandy. The fundraiser will include a golf tournament scramble at 11:30 a.m., followed by dinner between 6:00 and 9:00 p.m. with an auction and live entertainment by “Cowabunga Chris” and North Jersey’s “Max McGuire.”  If you can’t make the golf outing, you can attend just the dinner and open bar for $50.00 . Items for the auction are currently being collected. RSVP to Jamie Sofroney at Jamie@landisco.com or phone (609)-425-5555 for more details.

SEA ISLE CITY HELPS HURRICANE VICTIMS:

Non-perishable food items and clothing are now being collected for local Hurricane Sandy victims.  You can drop-off donations at Sea Isle City’s VFW Post 1963, located on JFK Boulevard at the foot of the Sea Isle Bridge.

Registered VFW Veterans may be eligible for financial assistance from the VFW’s National Office. Vets should visit their local VFW for more information about this program.

The members of VFW Post 1963 are willing to assist hurricane victims in various other ways, including helping residents find reputable contractors. Please contact the VFW is you need their help.

Monetary donations are being collected for Sea Isle City residents affected by the hurricane. To make a donation, bring checks or money orders (payable to “Hurricane Sandy Sea Isle City Relief Fund”) to any 1st Bank of Sea Isle City location or mail donations directly to 4301 Landis Avenue, Sea Isle City, NJ 08243.

The Sea Isle City Chamber of Commerce & Revitalization is searching for local property owners who are willing to donate their homes during Sea Isle’s 1st Annual Holiday Extravaganza, which will take place between Wednesday, November 21, and Sunday, November 25.  Ten families displaced by Hurricane Sandy will be chosen to enjoy those homes during Thanksgiving weekend, and they will also receive a full Thanksgiving dinner and other gifts. Local property owners who would like to donate their homes during Thanksgiving weekend can contact any realtor in Sea Isle City or phone the Chamber of Commerce and Revitalization at (609) 263-9090.


HOW TO CHECK CONTRACTORS:

Call Cape May County Consumer Affairs, 609-886-2903, or visit the New Jersey Consumer Affairs Website: www.njconsumeraffairs.gov  then:
1. Scroll down to licensee search.
2. General public access
3. Business or person search
Note: if it doesn’t show up under a business of person search, try using the City search.

You can also phone # 1-800-242-5846 and follow the prompts.


HAVING INSURANCE PROBLEMS?

If you are having insurance problems, you can contact New Jersey Department of Insurance, www.dobi.nj.gov or 1-800-446-7467


FEMA INFO:

FEMA Disaster Assistance: 1-800-621-FEMA (3362) or www.DisasterAssistance.gov.

You can also visit the Sea Isle City Welcome Center to speak with a City employees about FEMA paperwork.
HOW TO AVOID DESATER-RELATED SCAMS:

Visit:
http://www.njconsumeraffairs.gov/disaster/floodtipsflyer_1.pdf
or
http://www.njconsumeraffairs.gov/disaster/floodtipsflyerSP_1.pdf
DISASTER RECOVERY CENTER REMAINS OPEN:

The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) continues to assist residents and business owners in Cape May County who incurred damage during Hurricane Sandy.  The Disaster Recovery Center is located in the lower level of the Cape May County Main Library at 30 West Mechanic Street; Cape May Court House, New Jersey.

The Center is open at the following times:
Monday through Thursday - 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Friday and Saturday - 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Sunday - 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Those affected by Hurricane Sandy can register for FEMA assistance, Housing Assistance, Hazard Mitigation, Unemployment Assistance and receive Small Business Association loan information.

Please call 1-800-621-FEMA for additional information.


FLU VACCINE:

On November 8, the Cape May County Communications Office announced these date for free Flu Vaccine Clinics…
     
December 5:
11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m., Main Library, 30 W. Mechanic Street, CMCH
December 12:
10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m., Department of Health, 6 Moore Road, Bldg #17, CMCH

While supplies last, the FluMist nasal spray vaccine will be offered in addition to the injectable vaccine at these clinics.  The high-dose vaccine for seniors and the pneumonia vaccine will be offered at the November 14th and December 12th clinics held at the Department of Health. Seniors who want the high-dose vaccine need to bring their Medicare and supplemental insurance cards to the clinic.

As a reminder, the CDC recommends an annual flu shot for everyone older than 6 months of age. The New Jersey Department of Health requires that children less than 5 years old who attend daycare or preschool receive a flu shot each year by the end of December. Children who are not vaccinated will not be able to attend school after that time until the end of the flu season, which is currently estimated as the end of March.

If you have a severe allergy to eggs, other vaccine component, or if you have been told by a doctor that you have had Guillain-Barré syndrome, you need to receive the flu vaccine from your personal physician.
To keep up to date on all of the County’s flu clinics, check the website at www.cmchealth.net or call the flu hotline at 463-6581.


4TH QUARTER TAX GRACE PERIOD EXTENDED:

The grace period for 4th quarter property taxes has been extended to Friday, November 16th, 2012. Payments not received in the tax office by Friday Nov. 16th, 2012, will accrue interest from the original due date of November 1st, 2012.  To pay your taxes online, visit www.seaislecitynj.us.  Taxes can also be paid in person or via the U.S. Postal Service by mailing checks or money orders City Hall, Tax Office, 4416 Landis Avenue, Sea Isle City, NJ 08243.  To speak with a representative from the Tax Office, phone 263-4461, ext. 213.

Please Note: Due to damage sustained at City Hall during Hurricane Sandy, Sea Isle City’s Tax Office and all City Hall operations will soon be moving to the Sea Isle City Public School building, 4501 Park Road. After that move, payments can be made in person at the public school.

2012 HOLIDAY BEACHTAGS ARE NOW AVAILABLE:

Holiday Beach Tags are now available for purchase at City Hall for $20 each. Quantities are limited, so be sure to buy your holiday tags early. In addition to being a thoughtful gift, Holiday Beach Tags (which come in a decorative gift box) also serve as commemorative Christmas tree ornaments and they are a “must have” for any beach tag collection.  Sea Isle’s Holiday Beach Tags are valid for access to all of Sea Isle City’s beaches throughout the 2013 summer season.

DID YOU KNOW?

--Girls Weekend, hosted by the Sea Isle City Chamber of Commerce and Revitalization, is November 16-18. This event will feature discounts and special offers at businesses throughout town (263-9090 or www.seaislechamber.com).
--Sea Isle City’s 1st Annual Holiday Extravaganza, hosted by the Chamber of Commerce and Revitalization, will take place Friday-Saturday, November 23-24 (Thanksgiving Weekend) at Excursion Park, featuring an ice skating rink, a Christmas parade, a tree lighting ceremony with Santa Claus, entertainment, Christmas characters and plenty of holiday fun (263-9090 or www.seaislechamber.com).
--A free Magic Show, featuring Magician-Juggler Al Grout, will be held at the Sea Isle City Community Lodge on Friday, December 7, at 6:30 p.m., for children in Pre-K through 5th Grade (263-0050).
-- Personalized Bricks for the Sea Isle City Historical Museum’s Memorial Garden are available for $200 each. Bricks are a great way to remember someone you love (609-624-7929).
--Sea Isle City now offers online view and payment options for municipal property tax bills and water/sewer utility bills (visit www.seaislecitynj.us and click on the "Tax & Utility Payment Center" icon at the bottom of the homepage). You can mail-in a payment as always, or pay online through your checking account, credit card or debit card. Please Note: Online viewing is free; however a convenience charge will be applied if you pay your bills online.
--The City of Sea Isle City will gladly arrange a Welcome Home Ceremony for any members of the United States military as they return to town. To arrange a “Hero’s Welcome” for your favorite Sailor, Marine, Soldier, Airman, National Guard or Coast Guard service member, phone Mayor Desiderio’s Office (263-4461, ext. 245) or Commander Chick Haines at VFW Post 1963 (263-1711). You can also find a “Welcome Home Ceremony” application online at www.seaislecitynj.us (via the “Quick Links” and “Downloadable Forms” tabs).
--You can properly dispose of American flags by placing them in the flag collection bin in front of VFW Post 1963 on JFK Boulevard. Please be certain to properly care for all America flags no matter what size!


RECENT PHOTOS:

On November 10, over 115 residents, property owners, civic leaders, visitors and local merchants successfully cleaned sand and debris from Excursion Park and the Entertainment Complex on the Promenade. The event was a great success.  Special thanks go to the Sea Isle City Chamber of Commerce & Revitalization for organizing the clean-up and donating pizza and soda for volunteers; Joe Ragusa and J.A.R Builders for donating machinery, labor and hoagies; Barth / Hutchinson Heating and Plumbing for donating bottled water and trash bags; Steak-Out Restaurant for donating snacks; and the many other individuals who donated bottled water, working supplies, time and hard work…

                     
                     
On November 11, the City’s 2012 Veterans Day Ceremony attracted many patriots to Veterans Park…

DO YOU HAVE A QUESTION? 

If you have questions or concerns, there is no need to wait for an upcoming City Council meeting to express your thoughts. You can contact the head of any City Department today to obtain the answers you need. Visit our website, www.seaislecitynj.us, and click on the Government/City Directory tabs for a complete list of contact information or phone City Hall at 263-4461.  

SEA ISLE CITY HURRICANE SANDY RECOVERY UPDATE: Nov. 8

HURRICANE SANDY RECOVERY UPDATE:

As clean-up efforts continue throughout Sea Isle City, please be aware of the following important information:

DEBRIS, TRASH and RECYCLING:

Storm Debris: The City’s Public Works Department continues to collect storm-related debris from curbs around town.  The pick-up process is taking place neighborhood by neighborhood.  When each neighborhood in town has been visited, Public Works forces will return to previously visited areas to continue with the next round of collection. 

Regular curbside trash and recycling collections will resume on Tuesday, November 13.  The regular Trash and Recycling Schedule will once again be in effect at that time. 

Please Note: Due to the Veterans Day holiday observance, there will be no curbside trash and recycling collections on Monday, November 12.  That week, properties that normally have their trash and recycling collected on Mondays will have a Tuesday collection.  Tuesday collections will take place on Wednesday; Wednesday collections will take place on Thursday, etc. 

The City’s Trash and Recycling Depot, located on JFK Boulevard adjacent to the Sea Isle Bridge, is open 7 days a week, 7:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Prior to November 13 (when curbside trash and recycling collections will resume) property owners are asked to please drop-off their trash and recycling at the depot.  In the meantime, please keep household trash separate from storm-related debris and trash on your curb. 

Trash Dumpsters have been placed at the following locations for public use: 

44th Street and Park Road
66th Street and Central Avenue
71st Street and Central Avenue
73rd Street and Pleasure Avenue
75th Street and Central Avenue

THE SEA ISLE CITY POLICE DEPARTMENT HAS MOVED:

Because of the extensive hurricane damage that was sustained to the Public Safety Building on JFK Boulevard, the SICPD has moved their operations into the Sea Isle City Public School building at 4501 Park Road, which has been empty since the spring of 2012 (when Sea Isle’s remaining public school students were transferred to Ocean City). Police operations will continue inside the school until further notice.  

The police department is utilizing the rear annex of the school facility, and is using the rear entrance on the 46th Street side of the building.

The Sea Isle City Police Department’s phone numbers remain the same.  For all emergencies, dial 911. For non-emergency calls, phone (609) 263-4311. 

Please Note: Within the next several weeks, all City Hall offices and the remaining Public Safety offices will also be relocated to the Sea Isle City Public School on Park Road. Additional details about that move will be communicated when available.

CITY HALL PHONES: 

City Hall’s phones are working properly once again. To contact City Hall, dial (609) 263-4461.

CITY COUNCIL MEETING CHANGES: 

City Council’s November 13 regular Council Meeting (at 10:00 a.m.) and the November 13 Planning Board Meeting (at 7:00 p.m.) will both take place inside the Sea Isle City Public School at 4501 Park Road.  The times for those meetings will remain the same.

Please Note: Handicap access to the Public School Building is available on the 45th Street side of the facility.

HALLOWEEN TRICK-OR-TREATING:

Following the postponement of Trick-or-Treating last week, the City has decided that there will be no Trick-or-Treating this year. We apologize to the local children, who will not be able enjoy that popular activity in Sea Isle City this fall, however the City’s first concern is their safety.  Many property owners are expected to be in town this weekend, cleaning their homes and adding debris to curbs around town – and this will create additional safety issues for pedestrians. Therefore, young and old alike are advised to use caution whenever walking or driving through Sea Isle City.

VOLUNTEERS ARE NEEDED:

In response to numerous requests to help the City with cleanup and restoration efforts, the City and the Sea Isle City Chamber of Commerce & Revitalization have organized an Adult Volunteer Clean-Up Day on Saturday, November 10, at 9:00 a.m. at Excursion Park.  Those who are available to volunteer are asked to bring any of the following supplies: plastic snow shovels for sand removal, heavy duty rakes for debris removal and work gloves.  Your help will be appreciated! 

For more information about what is happening in Sea Isle City contact The Landis Co., Realtors at (609) 263-3400 or info@LandisCo.com . 

www.LandisCo.com