August 14, 2025 at corner of Delaware and Mt. Hermon Way. Blogfinger.net. Before surgery.
Large hydrangea bush with big white flowers at Delaware Ave.near Mt. Hermon Way. Ocean Grove, NJ 8/14/25. Blogfinger.net
By Eileen and Paul Goldfinger, Editors, Blofinger.net
We received a threatening letter in the regular mail, one week ago, from a Neptune Township Code Enforcement Inspector who did not offer ways to discuss the letter with him.
It says that we “ARE HEREBY ORDERED to correct the violations by the compliance date specified. Failure to comply may result in the issuance of a summons subjecting you to a fine of up to $1,250.00 and/or 90 days in jail. ”
Our instruction in the letter says: “Remove all vegetation/shrubs/bushes/flower pots impeding on right of way and obstructing clear passage on sidewalk”
Interestingly it quotes an ordinance (303.03.). “Sidewalks and driveways: All sidewalks, walkways, stairs, driveways, parking spaces, and similar areas shall be kept in a proper state of repairs , and maintained free from hazardous conditions.”
We knew that our big hydrangea bush on Delaware Avenue was in the way of walkers, and we tried some pruning, but we thought that passersby would enjoy the flowers and wouldn’t mind walking around. We received many compliments regarding our hydrangeas.
But our big concern had been the large bulky holly tree at the corner which partially obstructed sidewalks. We were worried about killing the tree with extensive surgery. We thought of options regarding that, but we did nothing until our hand was forced by the Neptuner secret police.
Eileen loves that tree, so she was hesitant to do creative cutting. I wouldn’t mind if we cut it down totally for better views and breezes. So a compromise would be needed.
The time we were granted to get this issue resolved gave us from August 11 to August 18. Those of you who have tried to hire tree specialists know that the availability of such companies is limited, and the waits are ofter long.
We were astonished by the threat, and some neighbors with whom we shared found it laughable and/or a form of local government harassment.
It’s not that we reject the complaint, but it was the crude and threatening letter that made us angry. After all, no one has ever fallen or been injured by walking past our tree: named “Gentleman Jim.” And there are many locations around the Grove where vegetation blocks passages. Are the ordinances being applied equally?
The Mayor should make sure that our citizens are treated equally by his enforcers.
LADY GAGA from “A Star is Born.” “Look What I Found.”