The New Jersey Star-Ledger has published a fascinating story about a barrier island community struggling with whether or not the Township can nourish private beaches within its jurisdiction without the blessing of its waterfront landowners. The debate, distilled into one paragraph:
“Mayors want to keep beaches and dunes wide, attractive and safe. Waterfront homeowners balk at giving work crews access to their land, saying they don’t want their property usurped by their local government.”
Two weeks ago, the township council passed an ordinance that would force homeowners unwilling to grant access to the proposed nourished beaches in front of their homes to pay to for the share of the project that abuts their property. The fee could be as high as $35,000 per homeowner. It’s expected to be challenged in court.
A quick and interesting read, with potentially gigantic implications for other coastal areas across the nation.
“Long Beach Island officials threaten to fine homeowners over beach access” (New Jersey Star-Ledger)
Photo by smlp.co.uk