By Paul Goldfinger
I came across this quote from the NJ.com dated April 19 It contains an intriguing quote by the Governor of New Jersey.
” Jennifer Beck (NJ State senator for OG district) explained that another federal agency, the Army Corps of Engineers, is proceeding with beach replenishment in Ocean Grove.
“The Army Corps has already backed in planning the beach replenishment project for later this summer,” Beck said. “You have one federal agency, FEMA, splitting hairs and another ready to go.”
That has Thomas Arnone, director of the Monmouth County Board of Chosen Freeholders, hopeful that FEMA will reverse its decision on appeal.
“It is still a boardwalk – the public uses it, it is tied into Asbury Park and Bradley Beach, and the sheriff’s department supports the repair because it provides access to the beach,” Arnone said. “FEMA has to step up to the plate and give the Association what they need.”
If FEMA does not change course, Governor Chris Christie did not rule out state assistance for the boardwalk.
“I’m not going to get into hypotheticals, I am hopeful that the appeal to FEMA will be successful,” Christie said in Long Branch on Thursday. “If not, when it gets put back in front of me, I’ll decide what to do.”
Ann:
There is still one last appeal to FEMA and if turned down then, Christie NEEDS to act. But he shouldn’t while there is an appeals process in play.
I worry that Christie has become to cozy with the President and will support the Washington party line, as embodied in the FEMA decisions, against Ocean Grove.
Yes, Christie did say that if it came across his desk he would make a decision. I think it is time for Christie to make that decision on behalf of Ocean Grove. We need to move forward.