BERKELEY – With the Jones Road wildfire in the rear-view mirror, officials recognized the town’s first aid squads and fire companies for their dedication.
The Township Council meeting was during National EMS Week, so the governing body issued a proclamation in honor of the groups that respond to medical emergencies here and in neighboring towns. Representatives from the volunteer groups of Holiday Heights, Bayville, and Holiday City At Berkeley were honored as well as the township’s EMS squad that is under the authority of the police department.
Mayor John Bacchione commended the first aiders who go above and beyond for residents.
The final count of the Jones Road wildfire was 15,300 acres claimed, no injuries.
It wasn’t as long ago as you might think. The fire started on April 22. However, it was officially reported as 100% contained by the New Jersey Forest Fire Service on May 12.
Bacchione recalled vising the staging area of the firefighters, and seeing all hands on deck. He was impressed by the professionalism and the sacrifice they exhibited.
He thanked the first aid squads and fire companies for their unwavering commitment and dedication.
Veteran Support
Members of the governing body spoke highly of the groundbreaking recently held for the veterans village being built by the Tunnel To Towers foundation. There will be 99 apartments and 25 small houses deed restricted for veterans at 359 Atlantic City Boulevard (Route 9).
Hundreds of people came out to celebrate this major milestone in fighting veteran homelessness. The property will also have a common area for the veterans to get care they need, such as behavioral health, legal services, and peer support. Anything not directly provided by Tunnel To Towers will be available through partnerships with local caregivers.
“It’s going to be the first (veterans village) in the state, and they chose Berkeley Township,” Bacchione said. He added that he hoped the ribbon cutting could be as soon as 12-14 months.
Councilman James Byrnes said he recently met with George R.P. Zimmerman, Jr., Veterans Service Officer for the county. They talked about how there are scammers out there trying to get you to pay them to advocate for you in order to get veterans benefits.
These benefits are free and you shouldn’t have to pay for them. There are case managers who can help you. The county veterans office can be reached at (732) 929-2096 and online at co.ocean.nj.us/oc/veterans
