Weekly Message from the Mayor: Post-Flood Cleanup and Zoning

Since Ida paid us a destructive visit, our Department of Public Works (DPW) has been very responsive with multiple pickups of flood damaged debris removal. Some residences have seen four return visits by our DPW crew of their flood damaged property knowing that removal and repair of their homes have been slow as resources permit. 

Some of the problems stem from supply chain issues regarding parts/material/systems availability. Even inflation is affecting the price of many supply chain goods. Other delays relate to the overwhelmed contracting services available placing an incredible immediate demand on said services. 

Again, our DPW has repeatedly answered the call for all the flood damaged pickup. Great leadership and efficient repeat effort has mitigated the “war zone” appearance. My thanks go out to Lenny Vidal for his effort and guidance. At this juncture, there are only a handful of residents who are still in this cleanup process. 

Unfortunately, some other residents are taking advantage of the emergency cleanup process by placing at the curb non-flood related material hoping that our DPW will automatically pick it up as well. Not only is this a violation of our Borough codes but it is a violation of our zoning laws. The cost for the storm cleanup is enormous along with personnel time involved including overtime. 

The Borough has suspended the permit fees with construction applications as we have in severe storms of the past. 

Some of the aforementioned violations include placing roofing shingles, vinyl siding, paint cans or other construction related debris at the curb. Contractors must separate the dirt from the damaged foundations and cinder block walls as a result of the storm. The DPW will not remove any comingled dirt. NOV (notice of violation) or summons may be issued at the discretion of our Code Enforcer, Mr. Joe Costa. 

Construction and Repairs

In addition, our Construction Office has been incredibly busy processing applications for permits. 

Joe Costa has been very busy streamlining the zoning and construction forms so residents can efficiently complete the process reducing visits to Borough Hall. 

All forms pertaining to Zoning applications, Land Use Board (JLUB) applications, Construction permits, rental and vacant property registrations have all been updated and are now available online on our Borough website in the “Forms” section. The updated forms are “fillable” PDF forms. They can be downloaded onto your computer or tablet, filled out then printed for submission to the Zoning or Construction office. Downloading and typing the details into the form using your computer or tablet ensures clear and efficient communication with the department which will lead to faster processing time while avoiding confusion. 

All forms along with payment and backup paperwork can be dropped off at our convenient drop box located just outside the main entrance to Borough Hall at the parking lot. A security camera monitors the box constantly. We strongly encourage residents/applicants to use the drop box which will allow for after-hours drop off with no delay in getting your application in front of the appropriate reviewer. This is especially important for delivering time-sensitive material. Please be sure to include a contact phone number and, most importantly, an email address on ALL applications. 

Code Enforcement

Lastly, it is the goal of the Code Enforcement Department to ensure compliance with all Borough Codes. By keeping properties (both residential and commercial) free of debris, maintaining lawns, shrubs and trees will help us all to maintain a cleaner and more esthetically pleasing Borough for all our residents, businesses and visitors to enjoy. 

Thank you and please be safe. 
Mayor John L. Madden