Approximately 43 miles away, Atlantic City was destroyed by high winds and flooding during Hurricane Sandy, lucikly for Shamong, the township weathered the storm with very little damage.
“Overall, we were very fortunate,” said township administrator Sue Onorato. “All schools opened today as did the municipal building.”
According to Onorato, only about 300 homes lost power, most of which was restored by Oct. 31.
“By the end of today we hope to have power to all but maybe 10 to 15 homes,” said Onorato. “Some homes also lost cable.”
Currently, there are three public works full-time staff, all three of whom assisted in efforts with the New Jersey State Police, the Indian Mills Volunteer Fire Company, EMS squad, Office of Emergency Management and the utility companies.
“Thanks to these men, who worked long and hard to maintain safe roadways, and clear trees, the Atlantic City Electric Company was able to restore power so promptly to our residents,” said Onorato. “Our public works staff continues to amaze us with what they can accomplish with just three hard working men. If the residents have the opportunity, please take time to thank them in person.”
According to Onorato, the men credited for their hard work are, Norman Welsh, Gary Welsh and Steve Mitchell.
“Everyone who lives in Shamong knows the reputation of our township streets during winter snow and ice storms. These men gave the same level of dedication and attention to the residents needs during Hurricane Sandy,” said Onorato.
Additionally, the Indian Mills Middle School served as a shelter for those in need within the township.
“We also want to thank the Shamong Township Board of Education, Superintendent Szymanski, Todd Hall and Sandie LeMonyon who provided and staffed the Indian Mills Middle School building to be used as our refuge center. Although only one township family used this center, their appreciation made it all worthwhile. The school also provided a place for volunteers too rest and receive a meal,” said Onorato.
According to an official statement issued by Burlington County, there will be assistance given to the neighboring counties, specifically Atlantic and Ocean. Ocean County has numerous fires; five local fire companies have dispatched fire trucks to assist. Local units have also sent four marine rescue boats units to assist in rescuing individuals.
Additionally, the county is planning to take in 400 or more individuals from both Atlantic and Ocean counties. Of the people, 200 will be moved into an overflow shelter at the Pemberton Campus of Burlington County College. Most of the other residents will be moved to the shelter at Fountain of Life located in Florence.
“The recovery begins in Burlington County. But we are not out of the woods, thousands are still without power, and we need to work expeditiously to clear our roadways for safe passage. In the meantime, we will do everything we can to help our friends in neighboring Ocean and Atlantic Counties. I know we still have a long way to go, but our county and local emergency management personnel and volunteers have done a great job of keeping on top of this storm,” Freeholder Director Bruce Garganio said in an official statement.
While there wasn’t as much damage in Shamong as other communities, normality is being restored as homes begin to get their power back.
“I’m proud to live in such a community,” said Onorato.
