CAPE MAY POINT — Borough Commission has moved to comply with the state mandate that all water lines be free of lead and galvanized service lines by 2031.
“It mandates that when a homeowner or contractor is applying for demolition or an elevation permit, the homeowner or contractor must make sure that their water service line is not lead or galvanized piping,” Commissioner Suzanne Yunghans said Sept. 23, adding that the rules apply to the line running from the curb to the house.
The amendment is intended to ensure that materials are up to date for both the water and sewer lines.
“If someone is taking down a house, chances are it’s an older home and chances are the water service line and sewer line might be old materials,” Yunghans said.
Mayor Anita VanHeeswyk said compliance is very important. Yunghans added that all public lines are updated, and it was important for the public to be aware of the information.
“I know the letters have been sent out for those last connections between the property owner and the borough, so it’s important to check that, too,” VanHeeswyk said. “I’m thrilled that we’re way ahead of this curve.”
Deputy Mayor Elise Geiger asked Solicitor John Amenhauser if the term “partial demolition” would be universally understood, adding that she was concerned about misinterpretation of the ordinance.
She also suggested revising the wording regarding who is responsible for replacement procedures. Clerk Elaine Wallace said she revised it before the meeting, so the ordinance now states “property owner and/or contractor,” not specifying the type of contractor.
“We’re trying to encompass as much new construction as possible to ensure that lines are being updated,” Amenhauser said. “If you’re doing any kind of raising of any structure at all, or any kind of demolition at all, you have to check your water line.”
Public Works Supervisor Bill Gibson added that they also want the sewer lines upgraded, from clay or asbestos to PVC.
“It benefits the homeowner to do it while the construction is happening, rather than to have to go back and do it after the fact,” Yunghans said. “I think this calls it out because sometimes it’s overlooked.
VanHeeswyk added that checking the service lines during construction could be a cost savings.
The second reading and final vote are scheduled for the meeting Oct. 28.
Bulk trash
Earlier this year, the borough announced a change regarding bulk trash pickup, allowing residents to schedule pickup for two bulk items twice per year.
Yunghans said the change to an appointment-only system benefits the homeowners.
“You don’t have to save your bulk trash for just two days a year. You can call the office and schedule it,” she said. “No hazardous materials can be part of that pickup.”
Bulk trash does not include small items meant for regular trash, air conditioners, refrigerators, tree stumps, yard waste, cast iron, metal pipes, demolition or construction materials, car parts, electronics, paints, or household hazardous waste.
Other business
In other news, Geiger said she and Borough Administrator Ed Grant were busy with renegotiations for the shared service police contract.
“More to come on that,” she said.
Yunghans thanked the Public Works Department for wrapping up summer in a wonderful fashion.
“They’re doing regular fall maintenance now,” she said. “One note is that the wells we were struggling with at the circle, a new well has been dug.”
Public Works is working to make sure the well is connected to the sprinkler system.
By RACHEL SHUBIN/Special to the Star and Wave
