Dune Debate in Margate
Margate was back in court on Fri., Nov. 20. Still saying NO to Gov. Christie’s push for a NJ coastal dune system.
With the State’s backing, The Department of Environmental Protection wants to use eminent domain to grab 87 city-owned lots.
Margate believes the state is abusing its power. New Jersey wants to build dunes against Margate’s wishes. Two thirds of Margate voters oppose the dunes, according to a recent referendum vote.
Judge Mendez will rule again within 15 days. At that time, Margate may…or may not…. get additional time to make their case.
Gov. Christie has called Margate city “selfish” for saying NO to his coastal protection plan. Christie is doggedly plugging away. He wants dunes along the entire length of the NJ coastline. He’ll use $3.5 billion in Hurricane Sandy money to get the job done.
NJ has wanted to build this 127 mile dune system for the last 20 years. Hurricane Sandy heightened their pressure & resolve against towns like Margate.
Margate says their bulkhead gets the job done. It’s enough to protect the Margate oceanfront and that flooding comes from the bay side, not the ocean side. Team Margate says that if sand is dumped next to the bulkheads that are already there, flood water and back bay surge will have no way to drain.
Margate officials were in the house: Mayor Becker, and Commissioners Blumberg and Amodeo. They watched the action from just behind their team of attorneys.
“We’re still alive,” Becker was quoted as saying after the court appearance.