Dune Restoration Resolution Among Council's Tuesday Business

Toms River officials are set to introduce a resolution Tuesday urging all municipalities from the Manasquan to Barnegat Inlets to consider using eminent domain to ensure a substantial federal dune project can be completed.

The resolution was announced by officials last week and is included on the draft agenda for the Township Council’s 6 p.m. meeting in town hall.

“We need to think beyond our individual neighborhoods and beyond our individual towns in building an effective dune system and beach replenishment project that will protect life and property for all of us,” said council Vice President Maria Maruca in a statement.

Toms River officials said they plan to use eminent domain to gain access to properties if owners do not grant easements. The ruling in a Harvey Cedars eminent domain case has given Toms River officials the go-ahead to move forward with eminent domain proceedings, which were too risky of an option before the court's opinion, mayor Thomas Kelaher has said.

The township plans to send letters to the property owners that have not yet granted an easement for the project. That letter will have a deadline to sign, which Maruca has said will be the end of July.

Also on the meeting agenda are presentations honoring the 50th anniversary of Toms River’s Municipal Band and recognition for those who have helped recover from Superstorm Sandy.