Politics & Government
Holgate, North Beach, and 'Sheltered' Residents Allowed to Return Today
Other residents to return this weekend.
Those residents in Holgate and the North Beach section of Long Beach Island, as well as residents that have been in shelters, will be allowed access to their homes on Friday, Nov. 9, 2012 from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. Access to the island will be permitted till noon, and residents must leave by 3 p.m..
In addition, all residents/homeowners of Long Beach Island will be permitted to enter the Island Saturday, November 10th and Sunday, November 11th to have their homes assessed and remove debris starting at 6:00 a.m. A curfew will be in effect and strictly enforced from the hours of 11:00 p.m. and 5:00 a.m. Holgate owners will not be permitted to stay due to water issues.
Residents are asked to have their appropriate placard in the window for identification, along with a drivers license. Residents are encouraged to collect their medication, insurance papers, and other important personal belongings. There will be no demolition or construction allowed.
Find out what's happening in Barnegat-Manahawkinwith free, real-time updates from Patch.
Officials are also asking residents to place debris and trash away from the easements so emergency vehicles can have access if need be. Parking will be in designated marked areas -- look for patrol officers for direction.
In a report released Wednesday, LBI officials noted that all sewers are up and running except in the Holgate section, and that a generator has been delivered to the Brant Beach pumping station, so all water is up and running except in Holgate, North Beach and Beach Haven. Residents are advised to boil all water for drinking/cleaning.
Find out what's happening in Barnegat-Manahawkinwith free, real-time updates from Patch.
Speaking at a press conference Wednesday, Gov. Chris Christie said he is working with officials across the island to determine an "orderly plan" to repopulate the island.
Christie also noted that it was his call to cut gas service to the island, noting, "I made the decision to shut off gas rather than have homes blow up." He hinted that there was the potential to save the central lines on LBI, but he noted New Jersey Natural Gas is investigating that. He also said the state is looking into propane as an option for the winter months.
